Skateboard deck width and length is determined by individual need and desire. It also is determined by the type of skating you plan to do. Wider decks (over 8" wide) are normally used for vert / ramp skating. Narrower decks (7.5" - 8.0") tend to be used for street skating. Most skateboards fall within the width range of 7.5 to 8 inches. And there are some that are slightly smaller or slightly larger. Smaller boards are easier to control and do flip tricks with on the road. Wider boards are easier to manipulate in a pool.