How do I pick the right skateboard as a beginner?

Picking your first board can feel overwhelming - so many parts and sizes. I've been there too, so this guide keeps it simple. If you are stuck, message me on the contact page, I will be happy to help :)

What do skateboard truck sizes like 5.25 and 139 mean?

Truck sizing names can vary by brand, so do not stress too much about the numbers. The customizer will keep the fitting parts together. Common examples include 5.0 inch or 129 for 7.5 to 7.75 inch decks, 5.25 inch or 139 for 7.875 to 8.125 inch decks, 5.5 inch or 144 for 8.125 to 8.375 inch decks, and 5.75 inch or 149 for 8.375 to 8.625 inch decks.

What skateboard wheel diameter and hardness should I pick?

For wheels, the two main things are size and hardness. Size changes height and roll feel, while hardness changes grip and smoothness. Most skateboard wheels are around 51-54mm. Size: 51-52mm is Standard sizing, and 53-54mm is Bigger - good if you skate bowls or want your wheels to last slightly longer.. Hardness (higher number = harder wheel): 78A is Soft - Cruising only, 98A-99A is Medium-hard - Tricks, and 100A-101A is Hard - Tricks, easier to powerslide.

What does a skate tool do?

A skate tool is the one tool I strongly recommend for a first setup. It can adjust trucks, tighten axle nuts, build a board, replace parts, and take almost everything apart when it is time for maintenance.

Board Customiser | Custom Skateboard Singapore

Deck

Start with your shoe size for a rough width, then decide if you want to lean narrower or wider. Wider boards feel more stable and give your feet more room, but they're heavier to pop and harder to control. Narrower boards feel lighter and easier to control, but you get less landing room and it can feel less steady.

US shoeDeck widthSimple pick

6 and below7.25-7.675"Kids

7-87.75-7.875"Teens

9-108.0-8.125"Most adults

11-128.25-8.375"Adults with bigger feet

13+8.5"+Bigger feet or transition

Griptape

Most griptape comes in a standard sheet size and fits a normal skateboard deck. Some sheets feel a little rougher than others, but for most beginners the difference is small, so choosing the design you like is totally fine.

Trucks

Good news: this customizer handles truck fit for you. Choose a deck and only trucks that fit that deck will be shown. You can also use a skate tool to adjust truck tightness: tighter feels steadier, while looser turns more easily.

Build type

Standard

Solid axle and kingpin. Simple, strong, and fine for most first setups.

Single Hollow

The kingpin is hollow, which saves a bit more weight.

Double hollow

Both the axle and kingpin are hollowed out, making the truck lighter again.

Truck sizeDeck fit

5.0"1297.5-7.75"

5.25"1397.875-8.125"

5.5"1448.125-8.375"

5.75"1498.375-8.625"

Truck sizing names can vary by brand, so do not stress too much about the numbers. The customizer will keep the fitting parts together.

Wheels

For wheels, the two main things are size and hardness. Size changes height and roll feel, while hardness changes grip and smoothness. Most skateboard wheels are around 51-54mm.