As far as boards go, you pretty much figure out what you like over time. But for your first board just stand on several different ones and pick the one you feel the most comfortable on. I wear a size 13 and I've always skated 7.75 decks with a steeper nose than tail. I get my boards for free nowadays so I pretty much skate whatever my friend that works for Zero sends me. I suggest sticking with a harder wheel. Good luck, and drink lots of milk.