Ever wonder what makes your skateboard turn so smoothly, or why it sometimes feels wobbly? It all comes down to a small but mighty piece of metal: the skate truck. These aren’t just random parts; they’re the heart of your ride, dictating how your board handles, spins, and grinds. But stepping into a skate shop can feel like entering a maze. So many brands, sizes, and types! It’s easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure which ones will make your skating dreams a reality, or just end up causing frustration.
Choosing the wrong trucks can lead to a board that’s too stiff for carving, too loose for landing tricks, or just plain uncomfortable. That’s where we come in. By understanding the basics of skate trucks, you’ll be able to ditch the confusion and pick a pair that perfectly matches your skating style and board. Get ready to learn what makes these essential components tick, and how to choose the ones that will elevate your next session.
Top Skate Trucks Recommendations
- INDEPENDENT STD 144mm SILVER TRUCKS SET
- 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
![[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.
- Skateboard Parts Set for Beginners. This starter set includes 2 skateboard trucks, 4 skateboard wheels 60mm, 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.
- High-rebound Skateboard Wheels 60mm. 83A high rebound wheels, smoothier riding experience, suitable for cruising, street skateboarding.
- Universal Skateboard Tool. The T tool can be used to adjust kingpin, wheels, base plate bolts and trucks. A must have tool for skaters.
- PACKAGE INCLUDES: Hand selected components to make a great skateboard complete. Core Hollow 8.25" Trucks, Spitfire 54mm 99A Burners wheels, Amp Abec 5 Bearings, 1" Hardware, and Risers.
- TRUCKS: These core trucks offer hollow kingpins which simultaneously lower the weight of the truck while increasing strength and performance. Featuring hollow body kingpins, lightweight aluminum alloy hangers, heavy duty baseplates, and premium USA Made Bushings and Pivot Cups. Super high rebound (SHR) bushings and pivot cups offer a responsive, smooth, and consistent ride. All Core Trucks are assembled in the USA.
- WHEELS: The newly developed burners offer a new tier in Spitfires line. Using a unique new urethane, the burners provide an option for any skater looking for a high-quality wheel that’s great to ride and doesn’t sacrifice performance for the price. Poured in the Bighead shape, 99A durometer hardness.
- THE REST: This kit includes Amp Abec 5 Bearings, Bearing Spacers, 1" Hardware, and 1/8" Riser Pads (everything you need to make a complete skateboard except the deck/griptape).
- SIZING: Fits Decks 8.0" - 8.25"
- PACKAGE INCLUDES: Hand selected, top rated brand name components to make a premium skateboared complete. This kit only includes the best parts, no house brand filler! Each component represents the industry leading brand - this is the best an easiest way to complete a professional skateboard! Independent Mid Trucks, Spitfire 99A Burners wheels, Bones Reds Bearings, 1" Independent Hardware, and 1/8" Independent Risers.
- TRUCKS: New Independent Mid trucks feature a lower profile hanger for optimal contact point angle on your nose and tail for flip tricks, ledges, and all-around street skating. The best lightweight aluminum alloy heat treated to T6 condition for strength, durability, and grind feel.
- WHEELS: The newly developed burners offer a new tier in Spitfires line. Using a unique new urethane, the burners provide an option for any skater looking for a high-quality wheel that’s great to ride and doesn’t sacrifice performance for the price. Poured in the Bighead shape, 99A durometer hardness.
- BEARINGS: Bones Reds are the industry leading bearings. Skate Rated clearances, tolerances, materials and lubricant provide the best performance and durability possible. Sticker included in packaging.
- HARDWARE: Independent 1" genuine parts phillips head mounting hardware, and 1/8" Independent genuine parts riser pads. Premium parts to ensure maximum satisfaction. (everything you need to make a complete skateboard except the deck/griptape).
- 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
Choosing the Perfect Skate Trucks: Your Ultimate Buying Guide
Skate trucks are the metal parts that attach your wheels to your skateboard deck. They’re super important for how your board rides, turns, and grinds. Picking the right trucks can make a big difference in your skating!
Key Features to Look For
1. Truck Height: How High Will You Go?
Truck height affects how your board feels and how easily you can do tricks. There are three main heights:
- Low Trucks: These sit closer to the ground. They make it easier to flip your board for tricks like ollies and kickflips. They also feel more stable for grinds.
- Mid Trucks: A good all-around choice. They offer a balance between stability and flip tricks. Most beginner skaters start with mid trucks.
- High Trucks: These sit higher off the ground. They give you more clearance, which is great for cruising and carving. They also make it harder to land on your board if you’re doing flip tricks.
2. Truck Width: Matching Your Deck
The width of your trucks should match the width of your skateboard deck. You want the axle (the long metal bar) to line up with the edges of your deck. If your trucks are too wide or too narrow, your board will feel awkward to ride and might even cause your wheels to rub against the deck.
- General Rule: The truck axle should be about the same width as your deck.
- Slightly Narrower: Some skaters prefer slightly narrower trucks for easier flip tricks.
- Slightly Wider: Slightly wider trucks can offer more stability.
3. Bushings: The Cushions of Your Ride
Bushings are the rubbery rings inside your trucks. They control how easily your trucks turn. They come in different hardness levels:
- Softer Bushings: Make your board turn more easily. Great for beginners or lighter skaters.
- Harder Bushings: Make your board more stable and harder to turn. Good for heavier skaters or those who want more control at high speeds.
Important Materials: What Makes Them Strong?
Most skate trucks are made from strong metals. The most common is aluminum alloy. This metal is light and tough, which is perfect for skateboarding. Some high-end trucks might use hollowed-out parts to make them even lighter. The kingpin (the bolt that holds the trucks together) is usually steel for extra strength.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Makes Trucks Great?
- Strong Materials: Trucks made with good quality aluminum alloy will last longer.
- Smooth Bearings: While not part of the truck itself, how well your wheels spin is important.
- Precise Engineering: Trucks that are made carefully will turn smoothly and grind well.
What Can Make Trucks Less Good?
- Cheap Materials: Trucks made with weak metal can bend or break easily.
- Poorly Made Parts: If the kingpin or bushings aren’t good quality, your trucks won’t work right.
- Wrong Size: Using trucks that don’t match your deck will make skating difficult.
User Experience and Use Cases
Skate trucks affect your entire skating experience. If you want to do flip tricks, you’ll want lower trucks with softer bushings. If you just want to cruise around town, higher trucks with harder bushings might be better. Grinding on ledges and rails also feels different depending on your truck height and width.
- Street Skating: Often uses low to mid trucks for flip tricks and grinds.
- Park Skating: Mid to high trucks are common for stability on ramps and bowls.
- Cruising: Higher trucks offer a smoother ride and easier turning for just getting around.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the main Key Features of skate trucks?
A: The main Key Features include truck height, truck width, and the hardness of the bushings.
Q: How do I know what width of truck I need?
A: The axle of your truck should generally match the width of your skateboard deck.
Q: What is the best material for skate trucks?
A: Aluminum alloy is the most common and a good choice for its strength and light weight.
Q: Can I change the bushings on my trucks?
A: Yes, you can buy different bushings to change how easily your trucks turn.
Q: What does truck height affect?
A: Truck height affects how easily you can do flip tricks and how stable your board is.
Q: Are expensive trucks always better?
A: Not always, but higher quality trucks usually use better materials and are made more precisely.
Q: What are low trucks good for?
A: Low trucks are good for flip tricks because they make it easier to pop the board.
Q: What are high trucks good for?
A: High trucks are good for cruising and carving because they give more clearance and easier turning.
Q: What happens if my trucks are too wide?
A: If your trucks are too wide, your wheels might rub against the deck, which can slow you down and be dangerous.
Q: How often should I replace my skate trucks?
A: You usually don’t need to replace trucks unless they are bent, broken, or you want to try a different size or style.