Ever wonder what makes a skateboard turn and grind so smoothly? It’s all about the trucks! These metal pieces are like the arms of your skateboard, connecting the wheels to the deck. But picking the right ones can feel like a puzzle.
So many brands and sizes exist! It’s easy to get confused. You want trucks that fit your board, feel good under your feet, and help you do your best tricks. The wrong trucks can make skating tough and even dangerous. That’s why choosing wisely matters.
In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about skateboard trucks. We’ll help you understand what to look for, what different types do, and how to find the perfect pair for your skating style. Get ready to upgrade your ride!
Our Top 5 Trucks For Skateboards Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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TLHB Skateboard Truck | 8.7/10 | Check Price |
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Independent Stage 11 Skateboard Trucks – Set of 2 (144(8.25″)) | 8.9/10 | Check Price |
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Jizmo Skateboard Trucks | 8.5/10 | Check Price |
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Independent Skateboard Trucks 149 Mid + 54mm Spitfire Burners Wheels | 9.3/10 | Check Price |
![[CCS] Skateboard Trucks](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41mUnLQDemL._SL500_.jpg) |
[CCS] Skateboard Trucks | 8.6/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Trucks For Skateboards Detailed Reviews
1. TLHB Skateboard Truck
Rating: 8.6/10
Ready to roll? The TLHB Skateboard Truck, Skateboard Wheels 52mm Combo Starter Kit in black is your ticket to smoother rides and awesome tricks. This kit has everything a skater needs, from trucks and wheels to bearings and hardware, all built to last.
What We Like:
- The trucks are made with strong aluminum alloy and treated steel. This means they can handle a lot of weight and pressure, so you can trust them for big jumps and rough terrain.
- The wheels are just right for most skaters. They have a good balance of grip and slide, making them great for beginners learning new tricks and for experienced riders who want a reliable setup. They won’t crack easily.
- The ABEC-9 bearings are super smooth. They let your wheels spin for a long time without any effort, giving you a fantastic, fluid ride.
- This kit fits most standard skateboards, specifically decks that are 7.5 to 8 inches wide.
- You get a complete set! It includes the trucks, 52mm wheels, ABEC-9 bearings, 1-inch screws, 2mm riser pads, and spacers. Everything you need to get your board ready to go.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the instructions are generally clear, some beginners might find the initial setup slightly confusing without more detailed diagrams.
- The black color is classic, but a wider variety of color options for the trucks and wheels could appeal to more skaters looking for personalized style.
This TLHB combo kit is a solid choice for anyone wanting to upgrade their skateboard or start from scratch. It offers great performance and durability at a reasonable price, making it a fantastic value for skaters of all levels.
2. Independent Stage 11 Skateboard Trucks – Set of 2 (144(8.25″))
Rating: 9.3/10
The Independent Stage 11 Skateboard Trucks – Set of 2 (144(8.25″)) are a solid choice for any skater. These trucks are built tough for all your skateboarding adventures. They fit boards around 8.25 inches wide, which is a popular size. The silver color looks classic and cool on any setup. You get a pair, so you’re ready to roll right out of the box.
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What We Like:
- They are super strong and last a long time.
- They turn really smoothly, making tricks easier.
- The metal feels sturdy and won’t bend easily.
- They come in a classic silver color that looks great.
- You get two trucks, so you can get your board ready to ride.
- They are a good value for the quality you get.
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What Could Be Improved:
- Sometimes, the bushings can feel a little stiff at first.
- They are a bit heavier than some other truck options.
These Independent trucks are a reliable upgrade for your skateboard. They offer great performance and durability for skaters of all levels.
3. Jizmo Skateboard Trucks
Rating: 9.3/10
Ready to build your own skateboard or upgrade your current ride? The Jizmo Skateboard Trucks, Wheels, Bearings, Hardware, and Tool Combo Starter Set in Black is a fantastic option for beginners. This all-in-one kit gives you everything you need to get rolling, whether you’re cruising the streets or learning your first tricks. It’s designed to fit common skateboard decks between 7.75 and 8 inches wide, making it a versatile choice for many skaters.
What We Like:
- This set includes everything you need to start building a skateboard.
- The trucks are made of aluminum and are built to last for cruising and tricks.
- The ABEC-9 bearings roll smoothly and quickly, offering great value.
- The 52mm wheels are good for both street skating and casual cruising.
- The included T-tool is super handy for making adjustments on the go.
- Riser pads are included to help prevent wheel bite.
What Could Be Improved:
- This set is best for entry-level skaters; experienced riders might want higher-end components.
- While durable for its price point, the hardware might not withstand extreme abuse.
This Jizmo starter set is a solid choice for anyone looking to get into skateboarding without breaking the bank. It provides the essential parts needed to assemble a functional and fun skateboard.
4. Independent Skateboard Trucks 149 Mid + 54mm Spitfire Burners Wheels
Rating: 9.1/10
Ready to build your dream skateboard? This package gives you the core components for a pro-level ride. It’s the easiest way to get a professional skateboard without buying a pre-built one. You get top-rated brands that skaters trust.
What We Like:
- Includes industry-leading brands like Independent, Spitfire, and Bones.
- Independent Mid trucks are lightweight and strong, perfect for street skating and flip tricks.
- Spitfire Burner wheels use new urethane for a great ride that doesn’t cost too much.
- Bones Reds bearings are known for top performance and lasting a long time.
- Comes with all the hardware and riser pads you need (just add a deck and grip tape!).
- The lower profile hanger on the trucks helps with nose and tail tricks.
What Could Be Improved:
- This kit does not include a skateboard deck or grip tape, so you’ll need to buy those separately.
- The “Burner” wheels are a newer offering from Spitfire, so long-term durability might be less proven than their classic models.
This kit provides excellent, high-quality parts for a serious skateboarder. It’s a fantastic foundation for building a custom complete that will perform great.
5. [CCS] Skateboard Trucks
Rating: 8.8/10
Get ready to shred with the [CCS] Skateboard Trucks! These professional-grade trucks are built for performance and durability. They come in a variety of sizes to fit your deck perfectly, and you can choose from classic Raw Silver or sleek Black. Plus, they include all the 1″ mounting hardware you need to get rolling.
What We Like:
- Comes as a set of two trucks with 1″ Phillips mounting hardware, so you have everything you need to start.
- Made with strong steel hangers and baseplates for a sturdy ride.
- Features no-slip axles and kingpins, keeping things secure.
- Tested by experienced skaters from CCS, a brand with a long history in skateboarding since 1985.
- Uses high-quality bushings that help you turn smoothly and control your board better.
- Designed with a classic shape that works well for street skating, skatepark tricks, or just cruising around.
What Could Be Improved:
- While they are built tough, some users might prefer trucks with a slightly different turning feel depending on their specific style.
- The included hardware is a standard 1″. For thicker decks, you might need to purchase longer bolts separately.
These CCS trucks offer a solid foundation for any skater. They provide reliable performance for all types of riding and are a great choice for upgrading your current setup.
Choosing the Right Skateboard Trucks: Your Ultimate Guide
Skateboard trucks are the metal parts that connect your wheels to your deck. They are super important for how your skateboard rides. Picking the right trucks can make a big difference in your skateboarding experience. This guide will help you find the perfect trucks for your board.
Key Features to Look For
When you buy skateboard trucks, several things matter.
Height
Trucks come in different heights: low, medium, and high.
- Low trucks are closer to the ground. They feel more stable for flip tricks.
- Medium trucks are a good all-around choice. They work well for many types of skating.
- High trucks give you more space under your board. This helps prevent wheel bite when you turn. They are also good for cruising.
Think about what kind of skating you do most. This will help you choose the best height.
Width
The width of your trucks should match the width of your deck.
- You want the truck’s axle (the bar the wheels go on) to be about the same width as your deck.
- If your trucks are too wide, they can get in the way of your feet.
- If they are too narrow, your board might feel wobbly.
Most truck brands list the recommended deck width for each truck size.
Bushings
Bushings are the rubbery parts inside the trucks. They help you turn.
- Bushings come in different hardness levels. Softer bushings make turning easier. Harder bushings make turning harder but feel more stable.
- Skater weight and preference decide the best bushing hardness. Lighter skaters might like softer bushings. Heavier skaters might prefer harder ones.
Important Materials
Skateboard trucks are usually made of metal.
Aluminum Alloy
Most trucks use a strong aluminum alloy. This metal is light and tough. It can handle hard landings and rough streets.
Steel
The axle, where the wheels attach, is often made of steel. Steel is very strong and durable. It needs to be strong to hold the wheels on securely.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Good trucks make skateboarding fun. Bad trucks can make it difficult.
Weight
Lighter trucks are often preferred for tricks. They make it easier to lift your board into the air. However, some skaters like a bit more weight for stability.
Durability
High-quality trucks last longer. They are made with better materials and construction. This means they can withstand more abuse. Trucks that bend or break easily are not good quality.
Turning Performance
Good trucks turn smoothly. They respond well to your body movements. If your trucks feel stiff or don’t turn right, it can be frustrating.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use your skateboard matters.
Street Skating
For street skating, you often want lower to medium trucks. This helps with flip tricks and feels stable.
Park Skating
In skate parks, medium to high trucks are common. They offer a good balance of stability and turning for ramps and bowls.
Cruising
If you use your skateboard to get around, higher trucks are great. They give you more clearance and a smoother ride.
Beginners
For new skaters, medium-sized trucks are a safe bet. They work well for most types of skating. They let you learn and figure out what you like.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How do I know what size trucks to get?
A: You need to match your truck width to your deck width. Check the recommended deck width for the trucks you are looking at. It’s usually listed by the brand.
Q: What does “wheel bite” mean?
A: Wheel bite happens when your wheel touches the bottom of your deck when you turn too sharply. This can slow you down or stop you suddenly. Higher trucks help prevent wheel bite.
Q: Can I use different bushings?
A: Yes, you can buy replacement bushings in different hardness levels. This lets you customize how your trucks turn.
Q: How often should I replace my trucks?
A: Trucks don’t wear out quickly. You usually need to replace them when they bend, break, or the kingpin (the bolt that holds the bushings) gets damaged.
Q: Are expensive trucks always better?
A: Not always. While some expensive trucks use premium materials, many good quality trucks are available at different price points. Focus on the features you need.
Q: What’s the difference between low, mid, and high trucks?
A: It’s about how close the wheels are to the deck. Low trucks are closest, good for tricks. High trucks are furthest, good for cruising and preventing wheel bite.
Q: Do truck brand names matter?
A: Brand names can indicate quality and reputation. However, many smaller brands make excellent trucks too. Read reviews and look at the specs.
Q: How do I tighten or loosen my trucks?
A: You use a skate tool or a wrench. Tightening makes turning harder and more stable. Loosening makes turning easier and quicker.
Q: Can I put different wheels on any trucks?
A: Yes, as long as the wheels fit on the axle. Truck axle length is generally standard. Wheel size might affect if you need risers (spacers) with certain trucks.
Q: What are “risers”?
A: Risers are plastic pads that go between your trucks and your deck. They add height and can help prevent wheel bite if you use larger wheels.
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.