Santa Cruz Size Guide
Santa Cruz is a heritage skate and lifestyle brand with over 40 years of history, renowned for iconic skateboard decks, completes, apparel, and footwear. The brand's sizing philosophy prioritises comfort and authentic fit across casual wear, streetwear, and skate-specific products. Santa Cruz designs are known for relaxed, true-to-size fits that work well for both riders and lifestyle enthusiasts. Whether you're choosing a deck, t-shirt, hoodie, or pair of shoes, understanding your correct size ensures confidence in your purchase.
How to Measure
- Height: Stand barefoot with your back against a wall. Measure from the floor to the top of your head. Record this measurement in centimetres or inches.
- Chest: Wear a fitted (not tight) top. Measure horizontally around the fullest part of your chest, keeping the tape parallel to the ground. Breathe naturally and do not pull the tape tight.
- Waist: Measure around your natural waistline (where your trousers naturally sit), keeping the tape snug but not constricting. This is typically just above your hip bones.
- Hips: Measure around the fullest part of your hips and bottom, keeping the tape parallel to the ground and relaxed.
- Inseam: Stand barefoot with your back against a wall. Place a book or ruler horizontally between your legs at the level where trousers would naturally sit. Measure from the top of the book to the floor. This helps confirm trouser and boardshort lengths.
- Foot Length: Place your foot on a flat surface and measure in a straight line from the heel to the tip of your longest toe. Measure both feet, as they may differ slightly; use the longer measurement.
- Get Help: Ask a friend or family member to assist with measurements for the most accurate results.
Men's Clothing Size Chart
| Size | XS | S | M | L | XL | XXL |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chest (inches) | 34–36 | 36–38 | 38–40 | 40–42 | 42–44 | 44–46 |
| Chest (cm) | 86–91 | 91–97 | 97–102 | 102–107 | 107–112 | 112–117 |
| Waist (inches) | 28–30 | 30–32 | 32–34 | 34–36 | 36–38 | 38–40 |
| Waist (cm) | 71–76 | 76–81 | 81–86 | 86–91 | 91–97 | 97–102 |
Women's Clothing Size Chart
| Size | XS | S | M | L | XL | XXL |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chest (inches) | 32–34 | 34–36 | 36–38 | 38–40 | 40–42 | 42–44 |
| Chest (cm) | 81–86 | 86–91 | 91–97 | 97–102 | 102–107 | 107–112 |
| Waist (inches) | 24–26 | 26–28 | 28–30 | 30–32 | 32–34 | 34–36 |
| Waist (cm) | 61–66 | 66–71 | 71–76 | 76–81 | 81–86 | 86–91 |
| Hips (inches) | 34–36 | 36–38 | 38–40 | 40–42 | 42–44 | 44–46 |
| Hips (cm) | 86–91 | 91–97 | 97–102 | 102–107 | 107–112 | 112–117 |
Footwear Size Chart
| UK Size | US Men's | US Women's | EU Size | Foot Length (cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 6 | 7 | 38 | 24 |
| 6 | 7 | 8 | 39 | 24.5 |
| 7 | 8 | 9 | 41 | 25.5 |
| 8 | 9 | 10 | 42 | 26.5 |
| 9 | 10 | 11 | 43 | 27 |
| 10 | 11 | 12 | 44 | 28 |
| 11 | 12 | 13 | 45 | 28.5 |
| 12 | 13 | 14 | 46 | 29.5 |
Product-Specific Guidance
Skateboard Decks & Completes
Santa Cruz deck widths range from 7.75" to 8.5" and serve different riding styles and skill levels. Narrower decks (7.75"–8") suit technical street skating and lighter riders, whilst wider decks (8.25"–8.5") provide stability for cruising, transition, and heavier riders. Deck length varies by shape (cruiser, street, transition), so consider your intended use. Complete setups come pre-assembled with trucks, wheels, and bearings, making them ideal for beginners.
T-Shirts & Hoodies
Santa Cruz casual wear is cut relaxed and true to size. T-shirts are unisex-friendly and run neither oversized nor slim; measure your chest and compare to the size chart above. Hoodies and sweatshirts are designed for layering over regular clothing, so if between sizes, consider your preference for fit. The classic screaming hand logo appears on most pieces and maintains consistent placement across sizes.
Board Shorts
Board shorts are sized by waist measurement and inseam length. Refer to the men's or women's waist column and your inseam measurement to find the correct size. Santa Cruz board shorts are cut with a relaxed fit suitable for movement and typically sit at the hip with adequate thigh room. If between two sizes, choose the smaller for a snugger fit or the larger for additional mobility and comfort.
Casual Trousers & Jeans
Trousers and jeans are sized by waist and inseam. Measure your waist at the point where you naturally wear trousers (above hip bones) and your inseam from groin to ankle. Santa Cruz denim and casual trousers run true to these measurements. If your inseam falls between standard lengths, consider hemming or rolling the legs.
Footwear (Skate Shoes & Casual Trainers)
Santa Cruz skate shoes and trainers are designed with reinforced toe caps and durable rubber for skateboard use. They run true to size and fit snugly around the heel to prevent slipping during tricks. Measure your foot length in centimetres and use the footwear chart above to select your size. If between sizes, choose the larger for comfort on longer sessions or the smaller for a secure fit. Skate shoes typically feel slightly more snug than casual trainers to provide board control.
Sizing Tips
- Between Two Sizes? Santa Cruz apparel is versatile; if your measurements fall between sizes, consider your preference. Choose smaller for a fitted look suitable for layering or wearing alone, or choose larger for comfort on longer sessions or over base layers.
- Always Measure Your Feet Separately. Shoe sizes can vary between left and right feet; measure both and use the longer measurement to ensure a comfortable fit.
- Board Shorts & Baggies. These are designed loose and comfortable. Measure your waist at the natural sit point and do not over-tighten. A drawstring allows fine-tuning once you find your waist size.
- Deck Width Matters. If you are new to skateboarding, a standard 8" width is a safe starting point. Ask at your local skate shop if you are unsure, or check online reviews for the specific model you are interested in.
- Skate Shoe Durability. Skate shoes wear faster than casual trainers due to friction with grip tape. Reinforce high-wear areas with shoe goo (a flexible adhesive) to extend the life of your shoes.
- Easy Returns. If you receive the wrong size or the fit is not what you expected, most retailers offering Santa Cruz products accept returns within 30–100 days. Check the retailer's policy before purchase.
- Inseam Accuracy. For hoodies, t-shirts, and jackets, chest measurement is most important. For trousers and shorts, inseam is critical; a small error here results in poor fit. Measure twice and ask for help if possible.