Picking a skateboard is more than graphics. Deck width, complete or custom, board type, rider age: here's the full guide to find the board that fits you, from your first push to the skatepark.
💡 Is this your very first skateboard? Start with our first skateboard guide.
Skateboard: the main types
Before you decide, know what you want. The skateboard street/complete is for rolling and learning tricks ; cruisers and longboards are for cruising ; the surfskate mimics surf. This guide focuses on the complete skate, the perfect entry point. Torn between surfskate and skateboard? Check our surfskate vs skateboard comparison.
Getting started: why a complete skateboard?
For your first buy, pick a complete skateboard : deck, trucks, wheels, and bearings are already mounted and dialed, grip attached — you roll straight out of the box. No compatibility to check, no assembly. Best bang for your buck to start, whether it's street skate or the skatepark.
What deck width (board width) to pick?
Deck width is the #1 criterion, more than length : narrower means easier to flip ; wider means more stable on landing.
| Width | For who | Best use |
|---|---|---|
| 7.5″ | Kids, small build | Starting, technical street |
| 7.75″ | Teens & adults | The versatile standard, street |
| 8″ | Advanced | Stability, park, big gaps |
| 8.25″ and up | Park / bowl, larger builds | Transition, cruising |
A 7.5″ board makes learning easier for younger riders ; 7.75″ is the sweet spot for street ; 8″ became the modern standard from teen years on.
Kids' skateboard: key pointers
For a kids' skateboard, aim for a narrow (7.5″ or less) and lightweight deck, easier to spin and turn. Shoe size counts : over a size 38-39, a 7.75″ works better. And helmet + protective gear from day one (see our protective gear guide).
The parts that matter
- The deck : maple, popsicle shape, double concave. Width based on your style.
- The trucks : matched to deck width for smooth rolling and precise turns.
- The wheels : hard (99A+) and small (50-54 mm) for street ; softer and bigger for cruising.
- The bearings : they control speed and momentum.
- The grip : foot traction ; comes pre-applied on our complete boards.
What about electric skateboards?
Electric skateboards are for getting around, not learning tricks : motor, battery, and remote make them more like transport. To progress in skateboarding (ollies, flips, park), stick with a classic board.
What should you budget?
- Entry/mid-range complete : perfect to start and progress.
- Custom build : once you know what you want (deck + trucks + wheels picked).
Beginner tip : a good complete beats a poorly-matched custom setup.
Safety
Helmet, knee pads, and wrist guards, especially at first and at the skatepark. See our protective gear and safety guide.
Which ACTA skateboard to pick?
All our skates are complete, assembled, and designed in Hossegor :
- Kids / getting started : Wordart 7.5″.
- Versatile street : Memphis or Monster 7.75″.
- Stable / park : Geo 8″.
Full selection in the Street Skateboard collection, and the whole world in Skateboard.
FAQ
What skateboard width should I pick to get started?
Aim for 7.75 to 8 inches, the versatile standard. For a kid or smaller build, a 7.5-inch is easier to handle.
Is a complete skateboard or a custom build better?
Complete to start : already built and dialed, best value. Custom builds are for skaters who know what they want.
What age can kids start skateboarding?
From about 5-6 years with a narrow board (7.5 inches or less) that fits, helmet, and protective gear.
What's the difference between a skateboard and a surfskate?
A surfskate has a pivoting front truck that mimics surfing ; a skateboard, with a fixed truck, is built for tricks and street.
Is an electric skateboard good for learning skateboarding?
No : it's for getting around, not learning tricks. To progress in skateboarding, pick a classic board.
Designed in Hossegor. Put your foot down, push, you're rolling.
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