Ever wonder what makes your skateboard turn so smoothly or stay stable when you land a trick? It’s all thanks to the unsung heroes of your ride: the trucks! These metal parts connect your wheels to your deck, and picking the right ones can feel like a puzzle. It’s easy to get lost with so many brands, sizes, and styles out there. You want trucks that fit your board perfectly, feel right under your feet, and help you shred without any annoying wobbles or sticky turns.
Choosing the wrong trucks can lead to a bumpy ride, make it harder to learn new tricks, or even put a damper on your skate sessions. But don’t worry! This post is here to clear up the confusion. We’ll break down exactly what you need to know about skateboard trucks, from how they work to how to pick the best pair for your style of skating.
By the end of this guide, you’ll feel confident in your ability to choose trucks that will boost your skating game. Get ready to understand your board better and find the perfect trucks to take your skateboarding to the next level!
Top Trucks For Skateboards Recommendations
![[CCS] Skateboard Trucks | Professional Grade | Steel | Sizes 109mm, 129mm, 139mm, 149mm, & 169mm | Raw Silver, Black | Set of 2 | 1' Mounting Hardware Included (Raw, 139mm (Fits 8.0'-8.25' Decks))](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41mUnLQDemL._SL160_._SL160_.jpg)
- SET OF 2 TRUCKS + MOUNTING HARDWARE: Two trucks are needed for a skateboard, so we conveniently sell our trucks in sets of two. We also include a set of 1" Phillips hardware for mounting the trucks to the deck.
- QUALITY STEEL BUILD: CCS skateboard trucks are built using quality steel hangers and baseplates, and also feature no-slip axles and kingpins. Sturdiness is key when it comes to trucks, and that was at the forefront of our mind's when designing these.
- TESTED BY THE EXPERTS: CCS is a skateshop that has a storied legacy dating back to 1985. At our headquarters in Portland, Oregon, we've had our skate team and shop staff put these trucks to the test, and they've held up their quality for even our most experienced skaters.
- EASY TURNING & CONTROL: We use premium high rebound bushings to allow for smoother, sharper, and more controlled turning.
- GREAT FOR ALL TYPES OF SKATING: We specifically designed our trucks to have a classic geometry, making them a versatile truck that performs well in the streets, at the skatepark, or cruising around town.
- 【Exquisite workmanship】This skateboard hardware adopts aluminum alloy casting and die-casting process, medium carbon steel hardening treatment, and metal baking paint, which enables the scooter to withstand greater weight and pressure.
- 【Suitable for Skateboarders】This scooter and wheelset has a hardness of 95a and a rebound rate of 60%, which is very suitable for skateboard pros and beginners. The hardness is too high and it is easy to slip, so don't worry about the wheel cracking.
- 【Superior Performance】This skateboard trucks adopts 608 standard ABEC-9 skateboard bearing, the excellent bearing can rotate continuously for 30 seconds without load, giving you an unprecedented smooth feeling.
- 【Applicable Models】This skateboard trucks fits 7.5-8" skateboard decks, and the skateboard set fits all 7.5 to 8" skateboard decks.
- 【Skateboard Parts Set】 Set includes Scooter 5.0, Skateboard Wheel 52mm, Skateboard Bearing ABEC-9, Skateboard Screw 1", Skateboard Lifting Pad 2mm, Skateboard Spacer.
- Skate boarding's most iconic brand and leading manufacturer of skateboard deck trucks since 1978 with a Team of over 300 pros
- Durable, high performance truck for all types of skateboarding
- 55 mm tall height baseplate to hanger
- New Stage 11 standard height trucks are unquestionably the best combination of features and geometry Independent has ever produced
- By improving the modern performance features and iconic look of our Stage 10 design with newly reworked geometry based on Independent Stages 5-7 Independent has created the new standard to which all other trucks will be judged
- We sell trucks individually not in pairs
- Skateboard Trucks and wheels Set for 7.75-8" decks. This starter set includes 2 skateboard trucks 139mm standard, 4 skateboard wheels 52mm, High precision ABEC-9 Skateboard bearings, Practical T-tool, 2 riser pads 2mm, and standard skateboard hardware. Build a entry-level skateboard with this set
- Durable Standard Skateboard Trucks. Made of Aluminum, durable trucks for cruising or tricks. 5inch hanger, 7.6 inch axle, with 90A hard bushing and 6 base plate holes, fits well in standard double kick concave decks
- High Precision ABEC-9 Bearings. These skateboard bearings keep rolling smooth and fast. Good alternative to expensive bearings
- All-purpose Skateboard Wheels 52mm. 95A high rebound wheels, suitable for skills or cruising around the street
- Universal Skateboard Tool. The T tool can be used to adjust kingpin, wheels, base plate bolts and trucks. A must have tool for skaters
- INDEPENDENT STD 144mm SILVER TRUCKS SET
- 【Exquisite workmanship】This skateboard hardware adopts aluminum alloy casting and die-casting process, medium carbon steel hardening treatment, and metal baking paint, which enables the scooter to withstand greater weight and pressure.
- 【Suitable for Skateboarders】This scooter and wheelset has a hardness of 95a and a rebound rate of 60%, which is very suitable for skateboard pros and beginners. The hardness is too high and it is easy to slip, so don't worry about the wheel cracking.
- 【Superior Performance】This skateboard trucks adopts 608 standard ABEC-9 skateboard bearing, the excellent bearing can rotate continuously for 30 seconds without load, giving you an unprecedented smooth feeling.
- 【Applicable Models】This skateboard trucks fits 7.5-8" skateboard decks, and the skateboard set fits all 7.5 to 8" skateboard decks.
- 【Skateboard Parts Set】 Set includes Scooter 5.0, Skateboard Wheel 52mm, Skateboard Bearing ABEC-9, Skateboard Screw 1", Skateboard Lifting Pad 2mm, Skateboard Spacer.
- 【Exquisite workmanship】This skateboard truck adopts aluminum alloy casting and die-casting process, medium carbon steel hardening treatment, which enables the skateboard to withstand greater weight and pressure.
- 【Superior Performance】This skateboard trucks adopts 608 standard ABEC-9 skateboard bearing, the excellent bearing can rotate continuously for 30 seconds without load, giving you an unprecedented smooth feeling.
- 【Suitable for Skateboarders】This skateboard trucks and wheels set has a hardness of 95a and a rebound rate of 60%, which is very suitable for skateboard pros and beginners. The hardness is too high and it is easy to slip, so don't worry about the wheel cracking.
- 【Applicable Models】This skateboard trucks and wheels set fits 7.5-8" skateboard decks.
- 【Skateboard Truck Set】 Set includes Skateboard trucks 5.0, Skateboard Wheel 52mm, Skateboard tool, Skateboard Bearing ABEC-9, Skateboard Screw 1", Skateboard Lifting Pad 2mm, Skateboard Spacer.
Your Guide to Awesome Skateboard Trucks
Skateboard trucks are the metal parts that connect your wheels to your deck. They help you steer and grind. Choosing the right trucks makes a big difference in how your skateboard feels and performs. Let’s find the best trucks for you!
Key Features to Look For
1. Truck Height
Truck height is important. It affects how your board feels and what kind of wheels you can use. Low trucks are closer to the ground. They make your board more stable and easier to flip. You can use smaller wheels with low trucks. High trucks are further from the ground. They give you more clearance for bigger wheels. This helps you roll over cracks and rough spots better. High trucks also make it easier to turn.
2. Truck Width
The width of your trucks should match the width of your deck. A good rule is to pick trucks that are about the same width as your deck. This helps your board feel balanced. It also makes it easier to control your turns. If your trucks are too narrow, your board might feel wobbly. If they are too wide, your board might feel sluggish to turn.
3. Bushings
Bushings are the rubbery rings inside your trucks. They control how your trucks turn. Softer bushings make turning easier. They are good for cruising and beginners. Harder bushings make turning harder. They offer more stability. This is good for tricks and speed. You can often change bushings to get the feel you want.
4. Axle
The axle is the metal rod that goes through the middle of the truck. It holds your wheels. Most axles are made of steel. Some trucks have hollow axles. Hollow axles are lighter. This can make your board easier to do tricks with. However, they might be less strong than solid axles.
Important Materials
Skateboard trucks are usually made from metal. The most common metal is aluminum. Some trucks use a special aluminum alloy. This makes them strong and light. The kingpin, which is the bolt that holds the truck together, is usually made of steel. Steel is very strong.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality Trucks
Good trucks use strong, lightweight metals. They have smooth pivot points. This lets your trucks turn without sticking. Well-made trucks last longer. They feel better when you ride. They help you land tricks more easily.
Lower Quality Trucks
Cheaper trucks might use weaker metal. They can bend or break more easily. The turning might feel stiff. This makes it harder to control your board. They might not last as long.
User Experience and Use Cases
Cruising and Commuting
If you like to ride around town or just cruise, you might want softer bushings. This makes turning easier. Higher trucks with larger wheels can help you roll over bumps and cracks smoothly. You want trucks that make your ride comfortable.
Street Skating and Tricks
For doing tricks like ollies and grinds, you want trucks that are stable. Many skaters prefer trucks that are not too high. This keeps your board closer to the ground. This makes it easier to flip the board. You might want to choose trucks with a good reputation for durability. This helps them withstand impacts.
Park Skating and Vert Ramps
If you skate in skateparks or on big ramps (vert), you might want trucks that turn smoothly. You also need trucks that are strong. Trucks that are a medium height work well. They give you good stability for riding fast. They also offer enough clearance for bigger wheels.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How do I know what size trucks to buy?
A: The best way is to match your truck width to your deck width. A deck that is 7.5 to 8.0 inches wide usually needs 5.0 or 5.25 inch trucks. Wider decks need wider trucks.
Q: What does “kingpin angle” mean?
A: The kingpin angle affects how your trucks turn. Most skateboard trucks have the same kingpin angle. Some special trucks have different angles for different turning styles.
Q: Can I change the bushings on my trucks?
A: Yes! You can buy new bushings in different hardness levels. This lets you change how your trucks turn without buying new trucks.
Q: Are hollow trucks worth the extra money?
A: Hollow trucks are lighter, which can help with tricks. If you are serious about tricks and have the budget, they can be a good upgrade. For beginners, regular trucks are usually fine.
Q: How often should I replace my skateboard trucks?
A: Trucks can last a long time. You should replace them if they bend, crack, or the turning feels bad. If you skate a lot and do many tricks, you might replace them every year or two.
Q: What is the difference between independent trucks and venture trucks?
A: These are different brands. Independent trucks are known for being durable and having a good turning feel. Venture trucks are often seen as more stable and good for grinding.
Q: Do I need special tools to change my trucks?
A: Yes, you will need a skate tool or a socket wrench set to remove and install trucks.
Q: Can I use trucks from a longboard on a skateboard?
A: Generally, no. Longboard trucks are much wider and designed for a different type of riding. They won’t fit properly on a standard skateboard deck.
Q: What does “wheelbite” mean?
A: Wheelbite happens when your wheel touches the underside of your deck during a hard turn. This can stop your board suddenly. Choosing the right truck height and wheel size helps prevent it.
Q: Are there different types of trucks for different skating styles?
A: Yes, while most trucks work for many styles, some are designed to be better for specific things like cruising, street skating, or downhill riding.