Imagine this: You’re at the skatepark, ready to shred, but your board feels wobbly, and your turns aren’t as smooth as they should be. What’s the culprit? Often, it’s the unsung heroes of your skateboard: the trucks! Picking the perfect trucks can feel like navigating a maze. Too wide, and your board feels sluggish. Too narrow, and you can’t get that sweet carve. It’s a common headache for skaters, from beginners just starting out to seasoned riders looking for that extra edge.
This is where we come in. We’re diving deep into the world of skateboard trucks to help you conquer this confusion. By the end of this post, you’ll understand exactly what makes a truck tick, how to match them to your style, and what to look for to avoid those frustrating ride moments. Get ready to upgrade your setup and unlock a smoother, more controlled skating experience!
Our Top 5 Trucks For Skating Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Trucks For Skating Detailed Reviews
1. Ace Trucks MFG Skateboard Trucks and Colors – Sold as Pair (Sapphire Blue
Rating: 9.1/10
Get ready to shred with the Ace Trucks MFG Skateboard Trucks in a stunning Sapphire Blue! This pair of trucks is built tough and looks amazing on any board. They’re designed to be ready for action right out of the box, with a classic shape that never goes out of style and is super light. You’ll be hitting the skatepark or street in no time.
What We Like:
- Super Strong: Made from high-quality 7071 series aluminum, these trucks can handle all your tricks.
- Built to Last: The axles are crafted from heat-treated 3056 series steel, meaning they won’t bend or break easily.
- Smooth Grinds: The lightweight design helps you get your grind on with ease.
- Awesome Color: The Sapphire Blue looks fantastic and will make your skateboard stand out.
- Easy to Mount: These trucks come as a pair, ready to be bolted onto your deck.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited Size Options: While this size (33, 8.0 inches) is great for many, more width options would be helpful for different board sizes.
- No Included Hardware: You’ll need to buy your own bolts to attach these to your skateboard.
These Ace Trucks will definitely boost your skating game. They offer a solid combination of durability and style for any skater.
2. 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 legendary choice for skaters. These trucks are built tough and ready for anything you throw at them. They offer smooth turns and stable rides, making them a favorite for both beginners and experienced riders. The classic silver finish looks great on any setup. This set comes with two trucks, perfect for a complete skateboard.
What We Like:
- They are super strong and last a long time.
- Grinding and turning feel really smooth.
- They are a trusted brand that many skaters love.
- The silver color is classic and looks good.
- They are good for street skating and ramps.
What Could Be Improved:
- They can be a little heavier than some other trucks.
- Sometimes they can be a bit stiff when you first get them.
These Independent Stage 11 trucks are a solid investment for any skateboarder. They provide reliable performance and durability for endless skate sessions.
3. Atlas Truck Co. 139mm Skateboard Trucks – Black (Set of 2)
Rating: 9.1/10
Ready to upgrade your skateboard? The Atlas Truck Co. 139mm Skateboard Trucks in Black offer a fresh take on traditional street trucks. They combine tough, old-school design with modern engineering for a ride that feels both familiar and advanced. You get a set of two, perfect for a complete setup.
What We Like:
- These trucks blend classic style with new technology.
- They are built strong with CNC machined pivots, meaning they are very durable.
- Built-in speed rings make your ride smoother and faster.
- The ride is stable and responsive, letting you control your board easily.
- Atlas Truck Company makes a variety of longboard gear, showing they know what skaters need.
- They are designed to handle tricks, slides, and downhill riding.
What Could Be Improved:
- The description mentions “longboard trucks” in one spot, which might confuse some street skateboarders.
- While they are strong, the exact materials used for maximum strength aren’t detailed.
These Atlas trucks offer a solid upgrade for skaters looking for durability and a responsive feel. They’re a strong contender for anyone wanting a reliable set of trucks.
4. INDEPENDENT Truck Company 146 Stage 4 Pro Mark Gonzales Flat White Blue Standard Skateboard Trucks
Rating: 8.6/10
Get ready to shred with the INDEPENDENT Truck Company 146 Stage 4 Pro Mark Gonzales Flat White Blue Standard Skateboard Trucks! These trucks are built for serious skaters. They feature a cool flat white and blue design, honoring the legendary Mark Gonzales. They offer incredible performance and will make your board feel amazing under your feet.
What We Like:
- The aluminum hanger and baseplate are super light. They are also T6 heat-treated. This makes them strong and they last a long time.
- The SCM435 Chromoly Steel Axle is top-notch. It is really tough and won’t break easily.
- The Grade 8 Kingpin is a beast. It’s unbreakable and won’t bend, no matter how hard you skate.
- The 90a Original Cushions are made with a special formula. They bounce back super well, giving you a great ride. They even fit different stages of Independent trucks.
- The universal baseplate has 6 holes. This means it works with both older and newer skateboard hole patterns.
What Could Be Improved:
- While they are built tough, some advanced skaters might want even more customization options for the bushings.
- As a pro model, the price might be a bit higher than basic trucks, which could be a small hurdle for some.
These Independent trucks are a fantastic upgrade for any skateboard. They combine legendary strength with eye-catching style.
5. INDEPENDENT Skateboard Trucks Mids Silver 139 (8.0″) + Risers & Hardware Kit
Rating: 9.3/10
Get ready to shred with the INDEPENDENT Skateboard Trucks Mids Silver 139 (8.0″) + Risers & Hardware Kit. This kit gives you everything you need to get your board rolling. You get two awesome Independent trucks. These trucks are made for street skating. They have a lower profile that helps you hit your nose and tail tricks better. The special Shaft Nut design makes them super strong and easy to adjust. Plus, you get riser pads and hardware to put them on your deck.
What We Like:
- Complete kit: comes with trucks, riser pads, and hardware.
- Built for street skating: lower hanger is great for tricks.
- Durable design: the Shaft Nut helps keep things tight.
- Easy to adjust: fine-tune your ride.
- Independent quality: a trusted name in skateboarding.
What Could Be Improved:
- Riser pads are a bit thin: might need thicker ones for bigger wheels.
- Hardware is standard: some skaters prefer specific brands.
This kit is a solid choice for anyone wanting to upgrade their street setup. It offers great performance and value for dedicated skaters.
Your Guide to Awesome Skateboard Trucks
Picking the right skateboard trucks is super important. They help you turn, grind, and land your tricks. This guide will help you find the best ones for your ride.
Key Features to Look For
Height Matters
Trucks come in different heights: low, mid, and high. Low trucks are close to the ground. They make flip tricks easier. Mid trucks offer a good balance. High trucks give you more clearance. This is good for bigger wheels and rougher terrain. It also helps prevent wheel bite, which is when your wheel touches the board during a turn.
Width is Key
Truck width should match your skateboard deck width. A good rule of thumb is that the truck axle should be about the same width as your board. If your trucks are too narrow, your board will feel wobbly. If they are too wide, turning can feel awkward.
Bushings for Smoothness
Bushings are the rubbery rings inside your trucks. They control how easily your trucks turn. Softer bushings make turning easier. Harder bushings make turning stiffer. Many skaters like to swap out stock bushings to get the feel they want.
Important Materials
Aluminum is King
Most skateboard trucks are made from aluminum. This metal is light and strong. It’s also affordable. Some trucks use different types of aluminum to make them even lighter or tougher.
Steel for Durability
The kingpin, which is the bolt that goes through the center of the truck, is usually made of steel. This makes it strong enough to handle grinding and impacts. Sometimes, the axle is also reinforced with steel.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Weight Wins
Lighter trucks make your board easier to pop and flip. Brands use different manufacturing methods and materials to shave off weight. However, super lightweight trucks might be less durable.
Durability is a Must
Good trucks can handle a lot of abuse. They won’t bend or break easily. Look for brands known for making strong trucks. Solid axles are generally more durable than hollow axles, but they are also heavier.
Brand Reputation
Established skateboard truck companies have a good reputation for a reason. They often use better materials and have better quality control. This means their trucks will likely last longer and perform better.
User Experience and Use Cases
Street Skating
Street skaters often choose lower or mid-height trucks. They prefer trucks that are responsive for flip tricks and grinds on ledges and rails. Lighter trucks are a plus.
Park Skating
For skate parks, skaters might use mid or high trucks. This gives them stability for ramps and bowls. They need trucks that can handle drops and high speeds. Durability is very important here.
Cruising and Longboarding
Cruisers and longboards often use wider trucks. This offers more stability at higher speeds. Softer bushings are popular for a smooth, carvy ride.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How do I know what size trucks to get?
A: You need to match your truck width to your skateboard deck width. Most truck sizes are listed by the width of the axle. Check the manufacturer’s size chart.
Q: What are the best trucks for beginners?
A: For beginners, mid-height trucks with standard bushings are a good starting point. They offer a balanced feel for learning different tricks.
Q: Can I use different bushings?
A: Yes! You can easily swap out the bushings on your trucks. Softer bushings make turning easier. Harder ones make it stiffer.
Q: What does “wheel bite” mean?
A: Wheel bite happens when your wheels touch the bottom of your skateboard deck when you turn. This can stop your board suddenly. Higher trucks or smaller wheels can help prevent it.
Q: How often should I replace my trucks?
A: Trucks don’t wear out as fast as wheels or bearings. You might need new trucks if they bend, crack, or the kingpin breaks.
Q: What’s the difference between hollow and solid axles?
A: Hollow axles have a hole in the middle to make them lighter. Solid axles are heavier but can be more durable.
Q: Do I need special tools to install trucks?
A: Yes, you will need a skateboard tool or a socket wrench set to install trucks. You’ll also need bolts to attach them to your deck.
Q: Can I mix and match truck brands?
A: You can mix and match truck brands, but make sure the width and height are appropriate for your board and riding style.
Q: Are expensive trucks always better?
A: Not always. While some expensive trucks use premium materials and technology, many mid-priced trucks from reputable brands offer excellent performance and durability.
Q: How do I maintain my trucks?
A: Keep your trucks clean and dry. You can occasionally tighten the kingpin nut if your trucks feel too loose. Check for any cracks or damage.
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.