Top 5 Skateboard Trucks: Your Ultimate Buying Guide

Ever feel like your skateboard is just… not quite right? Maybe it turns too slow, or perhaps it feels wobbly when you try to do tricks. The secret might be hiding in plain sight: your skateboard trucks! These metal pieces are the heart of your board, connecting your wheels and dictating how it rides. But with so many different kinds, how do you pick the ones that will make your skateboarding dreams come true?

Choosing the wrong trucks can be super frustrating. They can make your board feel sluggish, hard to control, or even lead to unwanted wheelbite. This confusion is a common problem for skaters, whether you’re just starting out or looking to upgrade your ride. You want trucks that match your style, your board size, and the kind of skating you love to do.

Don’t worry! By the end of this post, you’ll understand exactly what makes a great skateboard truck. We’ll break down the different parts, explain what they do, and help you figure out which ones are perfect for you. Get ready to transform your ride and skate with more confidence and fun!

Our Top 5 Trucks Skateboard Recommendations at a Glance

Top 5 Trucks Skateboard Detailed Reviews

1. TLHB Skateboard Truck

TLHB Skateboard Truck,Skateboard Wheels 52mm Suitable for Skateboarders,Fits 7.5-8" Deck,Skateboard Bearings,Skateboard Pads,Durable Skateboard Hardware Combo Starter Kit -White

Rating: 9.1/10

Ready to hit the streets or the skate park? The TLHB Skateboard Truck, Skateboard Wheels 52mm, and Hardware Combo Starter Kit in white is a solid choice for any skateboarder, whether you’re just learning or you’ve been shredding for years. This all-in-one kit includes everything you need to get your board rolling smoothly and reliably. It’s designed for durability and performance, making it a great upgrade or starter set for your skateboard.

What We Like:

  • The trucks are built tough with aluminum alloy casting and a special hardening treatment. They can handle a lot of weight and pressure.
  • The wheels have a good hardness (95a) and rebound (60%), making them great for both beginners and experienced skaters. They won’t slip too easily, and you don’t have to worry about them cracking.
  • The ABEC-9 bearings are super smooth. They can spin for about 30 seconds without any load, giving you a fantastic, effortless ride.
  • This set fits most standard skateboard decks, specifically those measuring 7.5 to 8 inches wide.
  • You get a complete package: trucks, 52mm wheels, ABEC-9 bearings, 1-inch screws, 2mm riser pads, and spacers.

What Could Be Improved:

  • While the metal baking paint looks good, some users might prefer a wider variety of color options beyond white for the hardware.
  • The description focuses heavily on the durability and performance for skateboarding. It doesn’t mention if the parts are suitable for other types of boards like longboards or electric skateboards.

This TLHB kit provides a great balance of quality and value for skateboarders. It’s a reliable set that helps you get the most out of your ride.

2. Independent Skateboard Trucks 149 Mid + 54mm Spitfire Burners Wheels

Independent Skateboard Trucks 149 Mid + 54mm Spitfire Burners Wheels, Bones Bearings

Rating: 9.3/10

Get ready to build your dream skateboard with this awesome package! It includes top-notch parts from the best brands, so you’re getting professional quality without the guesswork. This kit makes it super easy to put together a killer complete skateboard, perfect for cruising the streets or hitting the skatepark.

What We Like:

  • You get hand-picked, top-rated brand name parts that work great together.
  • It includes industry-leading brands like Independent, Spitfire, and Bones, so you know it’s good stuff.
  • The Independent Mid trucks have a lower profile, making flip tricks and grinding easier.
  • They are made from strong, lightweight aluminum for durability and a good grind feel.
  • Spitfire Burner wheels use a new urethane that rides smoothly and performs well without costing too much.
  • Bones Reds bearings are the best in the business, giving you smooth spins and lasting a long time.
  • The package comes with all the hardware and riser pads you need to put it all together.

What Could Be Improved:

  • This kit doesn’t include a skateboard deck or grip tape, so you’ll need to buy those separately.

This package is an excellent and straightforward way to build a professional-level skateboard. You’ll be shredding in no time!

3. Independent Stage 11 Skateboard Trucks – Set of 2 (144(8.25″))

Independent Stage 11 Skateboard Trucks - Set of 2 (144(8.25"))

Rating: 9.0/10

The Independent Stage 11 Skateboard Trucks – Set of 2 (144(8.25″)) are a classic choice for skaters who want reliable performance. These trucks are built tough and offer a smooth ride for cruising and tricks. The silver finish looks sharp on any board.

What We Like:

  • They are super strong and last a long time.
  • Grinding and sliding feel really good with these trucks.
  • They turn smoothly, making it easy to steer your board.
  • The 144mm size fits boards around 8.25 inches wide perfectly.
  • Independent trucks are a trusted name in skateboarding.

What Could Be Improved:

  • They can be a bit heavier than some other truck brands.
  • Sometimes they might feel a little stiff at first until you break them in.

If you’re looking for dependable trucks that can handle a lot of skating, the Independent Stage 11s are a solid pick. They offer a great balance of durability and performance for most skaters.

4. Jizmo Skateboard Trucks

Jizmo Skateboard Trucks, Fits 7.75-8" Deck, Wheels 52mm, Bearings ABEC-9, Skateboard Pads, Hardware Tool Combo Starter Set - Black

Rating: 8.7/10

Ready to build your own skateboard or upgrade your current ride? The Jizmo Skateboard Trucks, Wheels, Bearings, Pads, and Tool Combo Starter Set in sleek black is designed for skaters looking for a reliable and affordable way to get rolling. This set gives you everything you need to assemble a solid entry-level skateboard, perfect for cruising the streets or learning new tricks.

What We Like:

  • Durable aluminum trucks are great for riding and tricks.
  • ABEC-9 bearings roll smooth and fast, offering good speed.
  • 52mm, 95A wheels are good for street skating and cruising.
  • The included T-tool is super handy for making adjustments.
  • This set is a budget-friendly option for beginners.
  • Riser pads help prevent wheel bite, keeping your ride smooth.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The trucks might be a bit basic for advanced skaters.
  • While good for beginners, the bearings may not match the performance of top-tier brands.
  • The wheels are all-purpose, which is good, but specialized wheels might be better for specific styles.

This Jizmo starter set provides a fantastic foundation for building your first skateboard. It’s a great value for anyone wanting to get into skateboarding without breaking the bank.

5. [CCS] Skateboard Trucks

[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))

Rating: 9.2/10

The [CCS] Skateboard Trucks are built for serious skaters. They come in different sizes and colors, like raw silver and black. You get two trucks and all the screws you need to put them on your board. These trucks are made of strong steel. They are designed to help you turn smoothly and keep control.

What We Like:

  • Comes as a set of two trucks with included 1″ mounting hardware, so you have everything you need to get started.
  • Made with quality steel hangers and baseplates, plus no-slip axles and kingpins for a sturdy build.
  • Tested by experienced skaters from CCS, a company that’s been around since 1985.
  • Features high rebound bushings that make turning easier, sharper, and more controlled.
  • Classic design works well for all kinds of skating, whether you’re hitting the streets, the skatepark, or just cruising.

What Could Be Improved:

  • While the raw silver finish is classic, some skaters might prefer more vibrant color options.
  • The included hardware is 1″, which is standard, but might require different hardware for thicker decks.

These CCS trucks are a solid choice for any skater looking for reliable performance. They offer a great blend of durability and smooth handling for a fun ride.

Your Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Skateboard Trucks

Skateboard trucks are the metal T-shaped parts that attach your wheels to your deck. They are super important for how your skateboard rides. Good trucks help you turn smoothly and do tricks. Choosing the right trucks makes a big difference!

Key Features to Look For

When you pick out skateboard trucks, think about these things:

  • Truck Width: This is how wide the trucks are. They should match the width of your skateboard deck. If the trucks are too wide or too narrow, it makes riding tricky. A good rule is to have the truck Hanger (the part with the axle) line up with the edges of your deck.
  • Height: Trucks come in different heights: low, medium, and high. Low trucks are good for flip tricks because they are closer to the ground. High trucks give you more space for bigger wheels and help you lean into turns more. Medium trucks are a good all-around choice.
  • Bushings: These are the rubbery rings inside the truck. They control how easily your trucks turn. Softer bushings make turning easier and smoother. Harder bushings make them stiffer, which is good for speed and stability.

Important Materials

Most skateboard trucks are made from metal.

  • Aluminum Alloy: This is the most common material. It’s strong and light. It makes the trucks last a long time.
  • Steel: The axle, which is the bar that holds the wheels, is usually made of steel. Steel is very strong.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Many things make trucks better or worse.

  • Brand Reputation: Some brands have been making trucks for a long time. They know what they are doing. These brands often make higher-quality trucks that perform well.
  • Weight: Lighter trucks are easier to flip and do tricks with. But they must still be strong!
  • Durability: Good trucks can handle a lot of riding. They won’t bend or break easily. Cheap trucks might break after only a few sessions.
  • Smoothness of Turn: The best trucks let you turn without feeling stiff or wobbly. This makes skating much more fun.
  • Kingpin Quality: The kingpin is the bolt that holds the truck together. A strong kingpin helps the truck last longer.

User Experience and Use Cases

Who are these trucks for?

  • Beginners: If you are just starting, a medium-height truck with medium-hard bushings is a great choice. It’s good for learning to balance and turn.
  • Street Skaters: People who do tricks like ollies and flip tricks often choose low trucks. They are closer to the ground for easier flips.
  • Park and Vert Skaters: Skaters who ride in skateparks or on ramps often use higher trucks. This gives them more clearance for bigger wheels and deeper carving turns.
  • Cruising: For just rolling around town, you might want slightly softer bushings. This makes for a smoother ride over cracks and bumps.

Choosing the right trucks is exciting! It helps you skate better and enjoy your time on your board.


Frequently Asked Questions About Skateboard Trucks

Q: What is the most important part of a skateboard truck?

A: The most important parts are the trucks themselves! They connect your wheels to your deck and let you steer.

Q: How do I know what size trucks to buy?

A: Measure your skateboard deck. The trucks should be about the same width as your deck. The axle of the truck should line up with the edges of the deck.

Q: What are bushings and why do they matter?

A: Bushings are the rubbery rings in your trucks. They control how easily your trucks turn. Softer ones turn easier, harder ones are stiffer.

Q: Can I use trucks that are too wide or too narrow for my deck?

A: It’s not ideal. Trucks that are too wide or too narrow can make it hard to control your board and can lead to problems.

Q: Are expensive trucks always better?

A: Not always, but often well-known brands make better quality trucks. Look for good reviews and a reputable brand.

Q: How often should I replace my skateboard trucks?

A: Trucks can last a long time! You usually replace them when they bend, break, or the kingpin wears out.

Q: What is the difference between low, medium, and high trucks?

A: Height affects how close the deck is to the ground. Low trucks are good for flip tricks, high trucks are better for bigger wheels and carving.

Q: Do trucks affect how high I can ollie?

A: Yes, trucks can affect your ollie. Lower trucks are closer to the ground, which can make flip tricks easier.

Q: What happens if my trucks are too loose?

A: If your trucks are too loose, your board will turn very easily. This can make it wobbly and hard to ride straight.

Q: Can I swap bushings on my trucks?

A: Yes, you can often swap bushings to change how your trucks turn. This is a great way to customize your ride!

In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.

If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.