Skateboard Hardware: What Size to Buy

Hardware comes in a variety of sizes, with the most popular being 7/8″ (without risers) and 1″ (with 1/8″ risers). These dimensions should be enough to construct the majority of skateboard set-ups. If you’re using riser pads that are taller than 1/8″, you’ll need longer hardware.

That being said, some skateboard hardware is as large as 2 inches. There are a few factors that come into play when determining which size of hardware to get such as wheel diameter, how many plies the deck has, and whether or not you are using riser pads.

Hardware Size Chart

Wheel Size (mm)	Riser Pad Size (inches)	Hardware (7-Ply Deck)	Hardware (8-Ply +)
50 to 54	N/A	7/8″	1 1/8″
55 to 57	1/8	1″ to 1 1/8″	1 1/4″ to 1 1/2″
58 to 64	1/8 to 1/4	1 1/8″ to 1 1/4″	1 1/4″ to 1 1/2″
65 to 67	1/4 to 1/2	1 1/4″ to 1 1/2″	1 1/2″ to 2″
68+	1/2+	1 1/2″+	2″+

Different Skateboard Riser Pad Sizes

Riser pads come in many different sizes and help prevent against wheel bite. You need to match your riser pads with the diameter of your wheels in order to prevent wheel bite. That being said, the larger the riser pads, the higher your deck will be from the ground.

The most common sizes of riser pads range from 1/8″ to 1/2″. Although many skateboard shops and online retailers sell those riser pads, most skaters only ever use 1/8″ risers.

Understanding what riser pads are and the different sizes are essential in knowing which hardware to purchase for your skateboard.

What Is Wheel Bite?

Wheel bite is what happens when a skateboard wheel comes into contact with the deck of your skateboard. If you have ever been skating and had your wheels come in contact with the board, then you know what it feels like to be “bitten” by those wheels!

Wheels that are larger than what is recommended for a deck can cause serious damage as they will easily catch on any imperfections or inconsistencies within the length of the board. This can destroy both decks and trucks fast if not prevented through proper hardware installation.

Learn more about wheel bite and some other ways to prevent it.

Does Skateboard Hardware Size Matter?

In short, yes, hardware size matters.

There are a few different factors to consider when it comes to what size skateboard hardware you need. The most important of which is the diameter of your wheels. If you’re using riser pads, make sure to get hardware that corresponds with the size of those pads. Other than wheel diameter, the number of plies on your deck and also whether or not you are using risers should be taken into account when selecting skateboard hardware size.

If all of this sounds confusing, don’t worry! There’s an easy way to find out what size hardware you’ll need for your skateboard – just use our handy Hardware Size Chart!

Does It Have To Be Skateboard Nuts & Bolts?

It’s not worth using your parents’ toolbox nuts and bolts to build your skateboard. However, in a pinch, you can use 7/8″ bolts that are 1/6″ in diameter.

Skateboard bolt packs come with hardware that is designed to fit properly in both your deck holes as well as your trucks. Also, these mounting kits include self-locking nuts that prevent them from coming loose due to strong vibrations or tension.

However, after your first few rounds, double-check to make sure your bolts are still tight. They may need to be tightened yet again. After that, everything should remain tight and secure.

What Different Types Of Bolts Are There For Skateboards?

Bolt packs come in a variety of sizes and forms. The sort of bolts you’ll want to use is entirely a matter of personal preference. For aesthetic reasons, Allen (or socket) bolts have gained popularity over Phillips head fasteners in recent years.

Phillips Bolts

Phillips bolts have a cross-shaped socket on the head. These may be easily tightened with either a Phillips screwdriver or the Phillips attachment on a skate tool.

Allen Bolts

The head of an Allen bolt has a 6-sided, hexagonal socket. Most skate tools include Allen keys, which are available in most Allen-bolt packs.