What Size Longboard Should I Get for My Height?

Choosing a longboard is harder than just picking the one with the graphic that you like the most. Sure, deck graphics are a big selling point for longboards, but they don’t affect your comfort relative to your height and weight. Many novice longboarders have begged the question: what size longboard should I get for my height?

Ideally, you should get a longboard that measures 42” or longer if you are 5’ 10” or taller. Shorter riders typically prefer longboards between 35” and 42” with a 9” wide deck. Heavy longboarders shouldn’t get a board that is less than 38” long and 9”-9 ½” wide because it’s easier to distribute weight and maintain comfortable foot positioning.

Tall riders should consider the Retrospec Zed and Landyachtz Drop Cat 38 Journey because of the dimensions. Shorter riders can benefit from smaller longboards such as the Sector 9 Fractal Battle Deck and Goldcost Strokes Drop Through. Follow along as we explore what longboard you should get for your height, weight, and riding style.

How Long Are Longboards?

Longboards come in a wide range of lengths between 33” and 60”. Downhill skaters may only need a 42” longboard whereas 45” is ideal for cruising. Longer boards are better for taller longboarders, but you can easily control them even if you are short.

How Wide are Longboards?

The average longboard runs between 9” and 10” wide. This width range is perfect whether you have large or small feet. I recommend a wider longboard for beginners and seasoned skaters alike because you have a bigger surface area for your feet. My current setup is 44” long and 9 ½” wide which gives me enough room for my feet with my heels just barely hanging off the board.

What Are the Determining Factors in Choosing the Appropriate Size Longboard?

Your Height

Your height primarily affects the ideal width of a longboard. Shoe size and height are often correlated, so taller longboarders need wider decks. It never hurts to choose a wider board that measures 10” or wider if you are tall. Wide boards are also beneficial for shorter longboarders, especially if they perform tricks because you have more room for your feet to land on the board.

Look for a 42” longboard if you are 5’ 10” or taller. Anyone shorter than that can comfortably ride a longboard that measures 35”-42”. There is no ironclad rule, however, and it ultimately comes down to preference.

Your Terrain Preference

Do you typically ride on rough terrain? If so, then you could benefit from a wider longboard. You get more control with a wider board because you have more room for your feet. A 10”-wide longboard is perfect for skating rough pavement whereas a 9” wide is suitable for smooth concrete.

Your Weight

Weight isn’t a huge factor when it comes to choosing the right longboard. However, heavier riders could benefit from a longboard that is 38” or longer. This will give you more room to evenly distribute your weight and find comfortable footing.

Your Riding Style

Your riding style is just as important as your height and weight. For example, downhill longboarders can benefit from a 42”-longboard. However, a 38”-longboard is perfect for freestyle and dance longboarding. However, anything between 38” and 45” is perfect for cruising.

What’s Recommended for Tall Longboard Riders?

Long and wide longboards are ideal for tall riders. Typically, a 9”-wide deck can be too small for a tall rider with big feet. Look for a deck that is between 38” and 45” long if you are tall and have big feet because you can have comfortable foot placement.

3 Best Longboards for Tall Riders:

1. Retrospec Zed

The Retrospec Zed measures 44” long and 9 ½” wide. That provides enough room for comfortable foot placement on the back truck and center of the board for tall riders. Made of bamboo ply, you don’t have to worry about this board breaking easily.

2. Landyachtz Drop Cat 38 Journey

Landyachtz makes incredible longboards, but the Drop Cat 38 Journey is the best for tall riders. It measures 38” long and features a 9.9”-wide board. The 180-millimeter trucks and 72-millimeter wheels are great for cruising and can support heavy weight and big feet.

3. Globe Byron Bay 43”

The Globe Byron Bay 43” is 9 ½” wide and is ideal for longboarders with big feet. However, it is beneficial to beginners with small feet as well. The 150-millimeter trucks are slightly small for the deck, but the 70-millimeter wheels make up for it.

What’s Recommended for Short Longboard Riders?

Short longboarders should avoid longboards that are too long. A 44” longboard might be uncomfortable for a short rider with smaller feet. However, there are several longboards with the perfect shape and size for short riders.

3 Best Longboards for Short Riders:

1. Goldcoast Strokes 36” Drop Through

The Goldcoast Strokes 36” Drop Through measures 36” long and 9 ¾” wide. You get a shorter length which is manageable without sacrificing a wide deck. The deck’s graphic is unique, and it is made of durable Canadian maple.

2. Arcadia 36″ Longboard Bamboo/Mountains

Globe’s Arcade 36” Bamboo/Mountains longboard measures 9” wide. The board is made of both Canadian maple and bamboo which makes it so durable. You can easily cruise at high speeds and keep control because of the 74-millimeter wheels. The shape has no kick, however, so it’s better for cruising than it is for tricks.

3. Sector 9 Fractal Battle Deck

The Sector 9 Fractal Battle Deck is easily manageable for short longboarders. At first glance, you will notice the incredible and vibrant deck graphic. However, the real star of the show is the unique board shape. Its measurements are 36” by 9”, and the Fractal Battle Deck is made of durable 7-ply maple.

Is There a Best Longboard Option for Beginners?

Look for a longboard with a kicktail if you are a beginner. You can use the kicktail to help steer when longboarding which is useful when you’re getting used to it. It’s also easier to learn longboarding if you choose a 9” wide deck or larger.

Beginners can benefit from bigger wheels because they make it easier to navigate. For example, 55-millimeter wheels are less forgiving than 70-millimeter wheels which are perfect for beginners. Length doesn’t matter as much when it comes to experience and skill level. However, it is helpful to get a longboard that is at least 38” long as a beginner so that you can find the right stance.

The best type of longboard for beginners is cruiser decks. Cruisers are easier to navigate than athletic downhill longboards and they aren’t too physically demanding. This is a great way to learn the basics, such as foot placement, pushing, pumping, and carving. A longboard with a steep concave is also easier for beginners because it’s harder for your feet to slip off of the board.

Read our related post on How Much Does A Longboard Weigh? (With Weight Limits).

Does Height Matter When It Comes to Trucks and Wheels?

Height doesn’t directly matter when it comes to trucks and wheels. Truck and wheel size has more to do with your board width and riding style than height. Wheels between 54” and 60” millimeters are appropriate for short and tall longboarders alike.

One thing that may help get a better grip when riding is choosing the right shoes, check out our Do You Need Skate Shoes to Longboard? post to see our top 5 longboarding shoe picks.

Final Thoughts

Tall riders typically ride longboards that measure between 38” and 42” or longer. A board width of at least 9” is also perfect for taller riders with big feet. Avoid longboards that measure over 42” long if you are under 5’ 10” because it could be difficult to manage. The best longboards for tall riders are the Globe Byron Bay 43” and Retrospec Zed. Consider the Goldcoast Strokes 36” Drop Through and Arcadia 36” Bamboo longboard if you are a shorter rider.

You may be wondering what the best longboards and brands are, that’s why we have a post of the 10 Best Longboard Brands so you can choose what style suits you best.