Are you wondering if being tall or short affects your ability to master skateboarding? Don’t worry—height is not the deal-breaker you might think it is! Whether you are reaching for the sky or staying closer to the ground, skateboarding is about finding your groove, refining your technique, and having the right setup. No matter your height, it’s all about skill, practice, and the right equipment.
In this article, we’ll look at how height affects skateboarding and share tips to help skaters of any height succeed.
How Does Skateboarding Affect Your Height?
One common misconception is that skateboarding can stunt your growth. This is entirely false. Skateboarding is not only a great way to stay fit but also it boosts coordination. It has no negative impact on bone growth or height. In fact, physical activity can increase your health and posture.
Skateboarding strengthens your core, leg muscles, and balance. You can enhance your posture through regular practice. It can give the appearance of being taller. Also, it helps with coordination and flexibility, which are crucial as you grow.
The Role of Height in Skateboarding
When it comes to skateboarding, your skills matter far more than your height. Both tall and short skaters can master tricks with the right technique and practice. The key is to focus on improving your balance, foot placement, and timing rather than worrying about your height.
Height does affect your center of gravity, which is the point where your body’s mass is balanced. For taller skaters, this center is slightly higher, which can make balance a bit trickier. However, by adjusting your stance and keeping a low, stable posture, you can overcome this challenge easily. Shorter skaters naturally have a lower center of gravity, which helps with balance and control.
Pros and Cons of Being Tall or Short in Skateboarding
Advantages of Being a Tall Skater
- Leverage for Tricks: Taller skaters often have longer legs, which provide extra leverage for popping tricks like ollies and kickflips.
- Speed: Longer strides can help you gain speed more quickly when pushing.
Disadvantages of Being Tall in Skateboarding
- Higher Center of Gravity: A higher center of gravity can make balancing a bit tougher, especially during spins or flips.
- Board Fit: Finding the right board size can be a challenge. Smaller decks might feel cramped, necessitating a larger board, such as a skateboard for tall guys.
Advantages of Being a Short Skater
- Better Balance: A lower center of gravity makes it easier to balance on the board and execute technical tricks.
- Easier Maneuverability: Shorter skaters may find it easier to maneuver on smaller boards. As a result, tight turns and quick adjustments can feel more natural for them.
Disadvantages of Being Short in Skateboarding
- Less Leverage: Shorter legs mean less leverage when popping tricks. This may require more effort to reach the same height as taller skaters.
Skateboard Setup Recommendations Based on Height
Choosing the right setup is crucial for tall skaters. Decks that are 8.25 inches or wider provide a larger surface area for stability. Opt for longer wheelbases to help distribute weight more evenly and reduce wobble. Wider trucks, around 149mm or above, can also offer more control, making it easier to balance during tricks.
Experiment with different deck concaves. A medium to steep concave may help taller skaters maintain better foot grip during flips.
Shorter skaters should consider decks between 7.75 to 8.0 inches, which provide good control and responsiveness. A shorter wheelbase will make turning sharper and more manageable. Lighter setups can help maximize agility, making it easier to execute flip tricks without feeling weighed down.
If you’re shorter, look for decks with a mellow concave. It provides a stable feel without compromising on the ability to perform technical tricks.
Does Being Tall Affect Tricks and Performance?
Taller skaters might find tricks like ollies, flips, and spins more challenging because of their higher center of gravity. To counter this, focus on keeping a low stance during tricks. Practice bending your knees more deeply before jumping, which helps in maintaining balance.
Many pro skaters, like Tony Hawk, who stands at 6’3″, have proven that height is not a barrier. Similarly, skaters like Andrew Reynolds, at 6’2″, have developed a style that combines powerful pops with precise control. These skaters have refined techniques that work with their height. Always focus on technical footwork and leverage your height for speed and power.
How Tall Are Most Pro Skaters?
Most pro skaters range from 5’6” to 6’0”. While this average might suggest that shorter heights are more common, taller skaters have also made their mark. Skaters like Tony Hawk and Bob Burnquist show that height doesn’t limit success.
Taller skaters often face skepticism, but many have overcome these doubts. For example, professional skater Aaron “Jaws” Homoki, known for his massive gaps and drops, is over 6 feet tall and continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in skateboarding.
On the other hand, Paul Rodriguez, who is 5’6″, is renowned for his smooth style and technical tricks, proving that shorter skaters can dominate the scene. These skaters demonstrate that height is just a number when it comes to talent and dedication.
Tips for Skaters of All Heights
For Tall Skaters
- Adjust Your Stance: Keep your knees bent and your body low to maintain balance.
- Choose the Right Board: Opt for wider decks and trucks that suit your height and foot size.
- Focus on Control: Prioritize smooth landings and controlled movements to enhance your performance.
For Short Skaters
- Leverage Your Balance: Use your natural balance advantage to master technical tricks.
- Select a Lightweight Setup: Lighter boards and smaller wheels can help you flip the board more easily.
FAQs
Is Being Tall a Disadvantage in Skateboarding?
Not necessarily. While taller skaters may face balance challenges, these can be overcome with the right techniques and equipment adjustments.
Can Short People Be Good at Skateboarding?
Absolutely! Shorter skaters often have excellent balance and control, making them well-suited for technical tricks.
What Is the Best Deck Size for Tall Skaters?
For tall skaters, a deck size of 8.25 inches or wider is ideal for comfort and stability.
Does Skating Make You Shorter?
No, skateboarding does not affect your height. Physical activity can promote overall health and fitness.
Conclusion
So, does height matter in skateboarding? After reading this article, you have your answer. Height in skateboarding is just one factor among many, and it shouldn’t hold you back. Whether you’re tall, short, or average height, the key to success lies in practice, the right setup, and a positive mindset. Skateboarding is about self-expression, pushing boundaries, and having fun—regardless of your height.