Imagine this: you’re at the skate shop, surrounded by gleaming metal. You’ve got your deck, your wheels, and now it’s time for the heart of your setup – the trucks. But suddenly, a wave of confusion hits. What’s the difference between a 139mm and a 149mm? Does kingpin height really matter? It’s easy to feel overwhelmed because picking the right skate trucks can be tricky. You want them to feel just right under your feet, but the sheer variety can make your head spin.
Choosing the wrong trucks can lead to wobbly rides, difficult turns, or even worse, a board that just doesn’t feel right. This can be frustrating when all you want to do is cruise, grind, or catch some air. But don’t worry, we’re here to help you navigate this essential part of skateboarding. By the end of this post, you’ll understand what makes skate trucks tick, how they affect your ride, and what to look for to find your perfect pair.
Let’s dive in and break down everything you need to know about skate trucks, so you can roll out with confidence and style.
Our Top 5 Skate Trucks Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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Independent Stage 11 Skateboard Trucks – Set of 2 (144(8.25″)) | 8.8/10 | Check Price |
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Independent Skateboard Trucks 149 Mid + 54mm Spitfire Burners Wheels | 8.7/10 | Check Price |
![[CCS] Skateboard Trucks](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41mUnLQDemL._SL500_.jpg) |
[CCS] Skateboard Trucks | 9.4/10 | Check Price |
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TLHB Skateboard Truck | 9.2/10 | Check Price |
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Jizmo Skateboard Trucks | 9.1/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Skate Trucks Detailed Reviews
1. Independent Stage 11 Skateboard Trucks – Set of 2 (144(8.25″))
Rating: 9.2/10
The Independent Stage 11 Skateboard Trucks – Set of 2 (144(8.25″)) are a solid choice for skaters. They are built tough and ready for your next skate session. These trucks are a classic for a reason.
What We Like:
- They are super strong and last a long time.
- They turn smoothly, making tricks easier.
- The silver color looks really cool on any board.
- They are not too heavy, so your board feels balanced.
What Could Be Improved:
- Sometimes, the kingpin can be a little hard to adjust at first.
- They might be a bit pricier than some other truck brands.
These Independent trucks will help you skate better and have more fun. They are a reliable upgrade for any skateboarder.
2. Independent Skateboard Trucks 149 Mid + 54mm Spitfire Burners Wheels
Rating: 9.1/10
Ready to build your dream skateboard? This package from Independent brings together awesome, top-rated parts. You get everything you need for a pro-level setup, except the deck and grip tape. It’s the easiest way to get a fantastic ride.
What We Like:
- Premium Components: This kit uses only the best brands, no cheap fillers.
- Independent Mid Trucks: They’re lightweight and strong. Their lower profile is great for flip tricks and grinding.
- Spitfire Burner Wheels: These new wheels offer great performance without costing a fortune. They have a 99A hardness, perfect for most street and park skating.
- Bones Reds Bearings: These are the go-to bearings for skaters. They’re built to last and perform really well.
- Includes Hardware and Risers: You get exactly what you need to put it all together.
What Could Be Improved:
- Deck and Grip Tape Not Included: You still need to buy these separately.
- Specific Wheel Shape: The Bighead shape might not be everyone’s preference.
This package is a fantastic starting point for building a serious skateboard. It gives you the core components for a smooth and reliable ride.
3. [CCS] Skateboard Trucks
Rating: 9.2/10
Upgrade your ride with the [CCS] Skateboard Trucks! These professional-grade trucks are built tough with quality steel. They come in a set of two, perfect for your skateboard. You also get 1″ mounting hardware included, so you’re ready to go. Choose from different sizes and colors like raw silver or black. These trucks are designed for smooth turning and great control, making them awesome for street skating, the skatepark, or just cruising around. CCS has been making skate gear since 1985, so you know they’re good!
What We Like:
- Comes with two trucks and all the hardware you need to attach them.
- Made from strong steel for a sturdy build that lasts.
- The axles and kingpins are designed to stay put, so they won’t slip.
- CCS tested these trucks with their own skate team, so they’re reliable.
- High-quality bushings help you turn smoothly and keep control.
- They work well for all kinds of skateboarding, from street to park to cruising.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the raw silver finish looks cool, some might prefer more color options.
- The included hardware is 1″, which is standard, but some skaters might need longer hardware for thicker decks.
These CCS skateboard trucks offer a fantastic blend of durability and performance for skaters of all levels. They’re a solid choice for anyone looking to improve their board’s handling and reliability.
4. TLHB Skateboard Truck
Rating: 9.3/10
Ready to hit the streets or the skate park? This TLHB Skateboard Truck, Skateboard Wheels 52mm Suitable for Skateboarders, Fits 7.5-8″ Deck, Skateboard Bearings, Skateboard Pads, Durable Skateboard Hardware Combo Starter Kit in white is a fantastic option for any skater. It’s a complete package designed to get you rolling with quality parts.
What We Like:
- Built tough! The trucks use strong aluminum alloy and steel. They can handle a lot of weight and pressure, so you don’t have to worry about them breaking.
- Great for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, these wheels are just right. Their hardness means they won’t easily slip, and they won’t crack.
- Super smooth rides. The ABEC-9 bearings are top-notch. They let your wheels spin for a long time without any wobbles, giving you a really smooth experience.
- Fits most boards. These trucks are made for decks that are 7.5 to 8 inches wide, which is a common size.
- Everything you need. This kit includes the trucks, wheels, bearings, screws, riser pads, and spacers. It’s a complete set to upgrade your skateboard.
What Could Be Improved:
- The color is only white. Some skaters might prefer more color options to customize their board.
- The instructions for putting it all together could be a little clearer for absolute beginners.
This TLHB starter kit offers a great combination of durability and performance for skaters of all levels. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to upgrade their skateboard or build a new one.
5. Jizmo Skateboard Trucks
Rating: 9.2/10
Ready to build your first skateboard or upgrade your current ride? This Jizmo Skateboard Trucks, Wheels, Bearings, Hardware, and Tool Combo Starter Set in classic black is your all-in-one solution. It’s designed for skaters looking for quality parts to get them rolling smoothly and stylishly, whether you’re learning new tricks or just cruising the neighborhood.
What We Like:
- Everything you need to build a skateboard is included in one box.
- The aluminum trucks are strong and ready for both cruising and tricks.
- ABEC-9 bearings make your wheels spin fast and smooth.
- The 52mm wheels are good for street skating and general riding.
- The included T-tool is super handy for making adjustments.
- Riser pads help prevent wheel bite, which is great for beginners.
- The price makes it easy for beginners to get started without spending a lot.
What Could Be Improved:
- The bushings are hard; some skaters might prefer softer ones for easier turning.
- While good for beginners, very experienced skaters might want higher-end components later on.
This starter set offers a fantastic value for anyone looking to get into skateboarding. It provides the essential parts for building a reliable and fun skateboard.
The Ultimate Skate Truck Buying Guide
Skate trucks are the metal parts that connect your wheels to your skateboard deck. They let you steer and grind. Picking the right trucks makes a big difference in how your board feels and performs. This guide will help you find the best trucks for your skateboarding adventures.
Key Features to Look For
1. Truck Height
Truck height affects how high you can ollie and how stable your board feels. There are three main heights:
- Low Trucks: These are closer to the ground. They make flip tricks easier because the board is closer to your feet. They feel more stable for street skating.
- Mid Trucks: These are a good middle ground. They work well for most types of skating.
- High Trucks: These sit higher off the ground. They give you more clearance for turning, which is great for cruising and downhill skating. They also make it easier to avoid wheel bite (when your wheels rub against the deck).
2. Truck Width
Truck width should match the width of your skateboard deck. The axle (the bar that holds the wheels) should be about the same width as your deck. This gives you good control and stability. If your trucks are too wide or too narrow, your board can feel awkward.
3. Bushings
Bushings are the rubbery rings inside the trucks. They control how easily your trucks turn. Softer bushings make turning easier and smoother. Harder bushings make turning stiffer and more stable. Most trucks come with a standard hardness, but you can buy different ones to change how your board turns.
4. Kingpin Angle
The kingpin is the bolt that holds the bushings together. The angle of the kingpin can affect how your trucks turn. Most skate trucks have a standard kingpin angle.
Important Materials
Skate trucks are usually made from strong metals. This makes them durable and able to handle the stress of skateboarding.
- Aluminum Alloy: This is the most common material. It’s strong and relatively lightweight.
- Magnesium Alloy: Some high-end trucks use magnesium. It’s even lighter than aluminum but can be more expensive.
- Titanium: Titanium is the lightest and strongest material, but it’s also the most expensive.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
The quality of your trucks affects your skating experience. Here’s what to consider:
- Durability: Good trucks can withstand impacts and grinding without breaking.
- Smooth Turning: High-quality bushings and well-made kingpins allow for smooth and responsive turns.
- Weight: Lighter trucks can make flip tricks easier and reduce fatigue.
- Brand Reputation: Well-known skate brands often use better materials and have more experience making quality trucks.
Cheaply made trucks might bend or break easily. They might also have rough edges that can damage your deck or cause squeaking noises.
User Experience and Use Cases
The right trucks make skating more enjoyable. They can help you land tricks, cruise comfortably, and feel confident on your board.
- Street Skating: Low to mid trucks are popular for street skating. They offer stability for landing tricks and are less likely to get in the way.
- Park Skating: Mid to high trucks work well for skateparks. They offer good turning for carving bowls and ramps.
- Cruising: High trucks are best for cruising. They provide stability and a smoother ride.
- Downhill Skating: Specialized trucks are used for downhill skating to provide maximum stability at high speeds.
When you choose trucks, think about what kind of skating you do most. This will help you find the perfect fit for your board and your style.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the most important part of a skate truck?
A: The most important parts are the axle width and the truck height. They need to match your deck and your skating style.
Q: How do I know what truck width to get?
A: The axle width of your trucks should be close to the width of your skateboard deck. Look at the measurements on the truck packaging.
Q: What does “wheel bite” mean?
A: Wheel bite happens when your wheels touch your skateboard deck when you turn sharply. This can stop your board suddenly. Higher trucks or smaller wheels help prevent wheel bite.
Q: Can I change the bushings on my trucks?
A: Yes, you can easily change the bushings. This lets you adjust how easily your trucks turn.
Q: Do expensive trucks make you a better skater?
A: Not directly. Good trucks can make skating easier and more fun. But practice is what really makes you better.
Q: How often should I replace my skate trucks?
A: You should replace your trucks when they are bent, cracked, or the kingpin is damaged. They don’t wear out like wheels do.
Q: What is a kingpin?
A: The kingpin is the large bolt that goes through the middle of the truck. It holds the bushings and allows the truck to pivot.
Q: Should I buy a set of trucks or individual ones?
A: You always buy trucks in sets of two, one for the front and one for the back of your board.
Q: What’s the difference between skateboard trucks and longboard trucks?
A: Longboard trucks are generally wider and designed for stability at higher speeds. Skateboard trucks are usually narrower and more responsive for tricks.
Q: Where can I find the size of my trucks?
A: The size of your trucks is usually printed on the baseplate or the hanger. It’s often given in millimeters or as a size number.
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.