Deck size
The dimensions of the deck in length and width (according to the largest dimensions).
Both small and large decks have their advantages and disadvantages. So, a short and narrow deck contributes to manoeuvrability, but puts forward additional requirements for the rider's skill — it can be difficult to cope with a small "nimble" skate, especially at high speed.
A long and wide board, on the contrary, is more stable, but it is difficult to make sharp manoeuvres on such a skateboard. In addition, the optimal length for each type of skate (see above) also depends on the age category of the skater: for example, classic skateboards in the adult version have boards no shorter than 600 mm, and anything less refers
to children's models. The width, in turn, can be determined by the size of the foot: a person with a large size (from 44) may simply be uncomfortable on a narrow deck.
Detailed recommendations on the optimal dimensions for each type of skate and planned riding features can be found in special sources.
Wheel diameter
The diameter of the wheels installed on the skateboard.
The speed reached by the skateboard is directly proportional to the diameter of the wheels, and the acceleration is inversely proportional. In other words
, larger wheels will accelerate more slowly, but to higher speeds. Accordingly, when choosing this parameter, it is first of all necessary to take into account what is more important: good speed (for this it is better to choose larger wheels) or the ability to manoeuvre (small ones are suitable for this). In addition, the large diameter makes it easier to cope with small bumps on the road.
It is also worth remembering that each type of skateboard (see above) has its requirements for the size of the wheels, due to the specifics of the application: for example, high-speed longboards have larger wheel diameters than classic stunt skateboards. Accordingly, only models of the same type can be compared with each other according to this parameter. Detailed recommendations on the optimal diameter for different types of skateboards can be found in special sources.
The wheels are usually made removable, which means that if desired, wheels of a different diameter can be installed on the skateboard. However, they should not differ greatly in size from regular ones. You should be especially careful with large wheels: it may turn out that the deck will reach them when tilted, and this is fraught with falls and injuries.
Wheel width
The thickness of the wheels installed on the skateboard.
The width of the wheel is, roughly speaking, the width of the track left during movement. Narrow wheels are convenient for stunts, in particular in grinds (sliding along pipes, railings, etc. directly on the suspension), but they require flat surfaces; wide, in turn, behave better on rough roads, they are more stable and cope with small bumps more efficiently. Accordingly, narrow wheels are typical mainly for stunt models designed for skate parks and other specialized locations with high-quality surfaces; wide, in turn, are better suited for longboards and "city"
cruisers who often have to ride on less than perfect roads.
The wheels in modern skateboards are made removable if desired, they can be replaced with wider or narrower ones. However, it is still not recommended to deviate from the “native” width value — riding can become uncomfortable, if not dangerous.
Suspension stiffness
The stiffness of the shock absorbers used in the suspension of a skateboard.
The value of this parameter is generally similar to the stiffness of the wheels (see above). For example,
stiff shock absorbers keep speed better and are more comfortable when jumping, while soft shock absorbers are better suited for uneven surfaces and manoeuvres with energetic turns. In general, optimal stiffness is related to the type of skate (see above), riding style, rider skills and the features of the surface on which you plan to ride; more detailed recommendations for each specific case can be found in special sources.
Max. rider weight
The maximum weight of the rider that the board is designed for, more precisely, the maximum weight that it can bear in normal use.
Under no circumstances should you exceed the recommended weight. There is a fairly high probability that the skate will not break immediately; however, a breakdown can occur at any time, and even after overload, already under the permissible weight. This is fraught with a fall and injury, not to mention the fact that such cases are not covered by the warranty. For the full use of the skateboard, it is highly desirable to have a small margin of weight — at least 10 – 15 kg. It will give an additional guarantee in case of abnormal loads (for example, hitting an obstacle) and in some specific situations — for example, if you need to carry a heavy backpack with you.
Models with a weight limit
of up to 70 kg can be conditionally attributed to children, although such a skate may also be suitable for a teenager. The average is the maximum weight, which lies in the range
from 70 to 100 kg — such boards are already suitable for boys and girls. A limit
of more than 100 kg is typical for fairly advanced models, originally designed to be used by adults.
