Table of Contents
Skateboarding is one of the latest trends to hit the market and although it has always been popular, it is rising again in terms of how popular it is amongst kids. Skate parks are being commissioned left right and center, and it is an excellent form of exercise and socializing that is healthy and fun.
So, if skateboarding is something that your kid wants to try out, then you probably need to be looking at buying them their own skateboard but how do you know what the right size skateboard for your child is to ensure their maximum safety and maximum enjoyment?
What Size Skateboard?
There are various different parts of the kids’ skateboard that need to be taken into account when thinking about the right size. They are as follows:
Deck Width: The deck is the part of skateboard that your feet stand on. It is the heart and soul of the board and needs to be a good fit for your feet so that your child is comfortable and safe while using their skateboard.
What size feet your child has will ultimately dictate what width you need their skateboard deck to be. The other factor that should help you decide is where and how your child skates. If they are a beginner, then they are likely to need a wider deck to add extra support and stability. If they have been skating a while, they won’t need as much protection and will want something thinner to facilitate their tricks and turns.
Deck Length: How long your deck is, is dependent on your height as well. Smaller children need a shorter deck, so there is less board that they have to manage and control.
Wheelbase: The wheelbase measurement on a skateboard is the distance between the wheels. This is quite standard across the boards and will adapt as per what size the deck is.
What is a Kids Standard Size Skateboard?
Truth be told, there is no standard size skateboard for children; just like there is no standard size skateboard for adults. All kids come in different heights, shapes, and sizes and this has to be accommodated for on the skateboard product market. As a kid grows, their needs will grow with them.
A small child will need a small board, an older child will need something a bit more substantial. Below is a size chart which correlates child age and height with what size skateboard is appropriate for their individual needs. Bear in mind that this is only generally speaking and is not bespoke to your individual child!
Kids Skateboard Wheel Size
Skateboard wheels are measured in mm. The smaller the wheel, the slower the board and vice versa.
50-53mm – These are small and slow. They provide a stable ride and are for small children.
54-59mm – These are averagely sized wheels for beginners and slightly older children.
60mm+ – Anything over this size wheel is for more expert boarders. They are fast and are designed for more hardcore skating.
Size Chart Skateboards for Kids
The toddler years: If you have a budding skateboard enthusiast as young as two or three, then you may be scratching your head as to how to nurture this enthusiasm in a safe and practical way. Toddlers can barely stand on their own two feet, after all, never mind stay upright on a board.
However, there are skateboard options out there for your toddler (2-5 years). The recommended measurements for safe riding are as follows:
Deck Width: 6.5”-6.75”
Deck Length: 27.2”-27.6”
Child Height: Less than 3 ft
Shoe Size: Size Three and below
The Child Years: This is when having and using a skateboard becomes a bit more practical and safer. The age range is now between 6 and 8 years when a child has more developed motor skills, and balance skills as well. The recommended measurements for safe riding are as follows:
Deck Width: 7”
Deck Length: 28”
Child Height: Between 3 ft and 4 ft
Shoe Size: Size Three to Six
The Pre-teen Years: This is around the age just before the ever delightful puberty hits. Yep, 9-12 years. By this age, your child may have a bit more experience with skateboarding, especially if they have been experimenting with boards since a young age. The recommended measurements for safe riding are as follows:
Deck Width: 7.3” +
Deck Length: 29” +
Child Height: Between 4 and 5 ft
Shoe Size: Size 7 to 8.
The teenage years: By the time your child has reached their teenage years their skills and hobbies will be well under their wing. If skateboarding is one of them, chances are more than likely they will be needing a more substantial board. They may even be in adult-sized boards now!
Deck Width: 7.5”-9” +
Deck Length: 29+
Child Height: 5ft-6ft
Foot Size: 8-11
If you liked the article, please leave your feedback.
