Ever wonder what makes a skateboard turn and grind so smoothly? It all comes down to the trucks! These metal pieces connect your wheels to your deck, and choosing the right ones can make a world of difference in how your board feels and performs. But with so many brands, sizes, and styles out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. You want trucks that let you carve with ease, pop your ollies higher, and handle rougher terrain without a problem. The wrong trucks can make skating feel clunky and frustrating.
This post is your ultimate guide to navigating the world of skateboard trucks. We’ll break down what you need to know, from understanding different materials and sizes to picking the perfect set for your skating style. By the end of this read, you’ll be equipped to make a confident choice and find trucks that unlock your full skating potential. Get ready to upgrade your ride and discover what makes Trucks Skateboard so important!
Our Top 5 Trucks Skateboard Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Trucks Skateboard Detailed Reviews
1. TLHB Skateboard Truck
Rating: 8.5/10
Ready to roll? The TLHB Skateboard Hardware Combo Starter Kit in crisp white is your ticket to hitting the streets or the skatepark. This all-in-one package includes everything a skateboarder needs to get going, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out. It’s designed to give you a smooth and reliable ride.
What We Like:
- Great for all skill levels: The 95a hardness wheels with a 60% rebound rate are perfect for both beginners and experienced skaters. They won’t slip too much, and you don’t have to worry about the wheels cracking.
- Smooth and fast ride: The ABEC-9 bearings are top-notch. They spin for a long time without load, giving you an awesome, smooth feeling as you skate.
- Built to last: The trucks are made from strong aluminum alloy with a special hardening treatment. They can handle a lot of weight and pressure, so they’re built for durability.
- Perfect fit for most decks: This kit is made to fit skateboard decks that are 7.5 to 8 inches wide.
- Complete package: You get the trucks, wheels, bearings, screws, lifting pads, and spacers all in one box. It’s a convenient starter kit.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited color options: The kit only comes in white, which might not suit everyone’s style.
This TLHB kit offers excellent value and performance for any skateboarder. It’s a fantastic way to upgrade your current setup or build a new board.
2. Independent Stage 11 Skateboard Trucks – Set of 2 (144(8.25″))
Rating: 9.0/10
If you’re looking to upgrade your skateboard, the Independent Stage 11 Skateboard Trucks – Set of 2 (144(8.25″)) in Silver is a solid choice. These trucks are a classic for a reason. They offer a smooth ride and are built to last. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been skating for years, these trucks can handle it all.
What We Like:
- These trucks are super strong. They can take a beating.
- They turn really well. This makes carving and doing tricks easier.
- The silver finish looks really cool. It gives your board a clean, classic look.
- Independent trucks are known for their quality. You can trust them.
What Could Be Improved:
- They are a bit heavier than some newer trucks.
- The price might be a little high for beginners.
Overall, the Independent Stage 11 trucks are a fantastic investment for any skateboarder. They provide reliable performance and durability for countless skate sessions.
3. Jizmo Skateboard Trucks
Rating: 9.4/10
Ready to build your first skateboard or upgrade your ride without breaking the bank? The Jizmo Skateboard Trucks, Wheels, Bearings, and Tool Combo Starter Set in sleek black is your all-in-one solution. This set gives you everything you need to get rolling, whether you’re just starting out or looking for reliable parts for cruising and simple tricks.
What We Like:
- It includes durable aluminum trucks that are built for cruising and tricks.
- The set comes with smooth and fast ABEC-9 bearings.
- You get all-purpose 52mm, 95A wheels that work well for street skating and cruising.
- A handy T-tool is included for easy adjustments to your trucks and wheels.
- This set is a great value for beginners looking to build an entry-level skateboard.
- The 2mm riser pads help prevent wheel bite.
What Could Be Improved:
- The wheels might not be ideal for advanced technical tricks.
- While the bearings are good for the price, serious skaters might want even higher-end options.
This Jizmo starter set makes building a skateboard simple and affordable. It’s a solid choice for anyone wanting to get into skateboarding.
4. Independent Skateboard Trucks 149 Mid + 54mm Spitfire Burners Wheels
Rating: 9.2/10
Ready to build your dream skateboard? This package delivers top-notch components from trusted brands. You get everything you need to make a pro-level complete skateboard, except for the deck and grip tape. It’s the easiest way to get a professional setup.
What We Like:
- The Independent Mid trucks are lighter and built for flip tricks.
- They use strong aluminum that’s good for grinding.
- Spitfire Burners wheels are made with a new material that feels great and performs well.
- Bones Reds bearings are the best in the business for smooth rides and last a long time.
- It includes 1″ Independent hardware and 1/8″ riser pads.
- All parts are from leading brands, no cheap filler.
What Could Be Improved:
- This kit doesn’t include the skateboard deck or grip tape.
This kit is a fantastic starting point for any skater looking for quality parts. You’ll be rolling smoothly and performing tricks with confidence.
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))](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41mUnLQDemL._SL500_.jpg "Top 5 Skateboard Trucks: Buying Guide & Reviews 12")
Rating: 9.0/10
Get ready to upgrade your ride with the [CCS] Skateboard Trucks! These professional-grade trucks are built tough with quality steel and designed to make your skateboarding experience smoother and more controlled. They come in a variety of sizes and cool colors like Raw Silver and Black, so you can pick the perfect set for your board. Plus, they even include the hardware you need to get them mounted!
What We Like:
- Built with strong steel for durability.
- Includes a set of 1″ mounting hardware, so you have everything you need.
- Tested by experienced skaters, so you know they’re reliable.
- Smooth and sharp turns thanks to premium bushings.
- Work great for all kinds of skating, from street to park.
What Could Be Improved:
- The “Raw” finish might show scratches more easily than painted options.
- While tested, long-term durability for extreme tricks hasn’t been extensively documented in this review.
These CCS trucks offer a great balance of quality and performance for skaters of all levels. They’re a solid choice for anyone looking to improve their board’s handling and enjoy their skate sessions more.
Choosing the Right Skateboard Trucks: Your Ultimate Guide
Skateboard trucks are the unsung heroes of your ride. They connect your wheels to your deck and are crucial for steering, grinding, and overall performance. Picking the right ones can make a huge difference in how your skateboard feels and handles. This guide will help you find the perfect trucks for your skating style.
Key Features to Look For
- Axle Width: This is super important! The axle is the metal bar that goes all the way across your trucks. It should match your deck width. If your trucks are too wide, your wheels will stick out too much. If they’re too narrow, your wheels might hit your deck when you turn. A good rule of thumb is to match your truck axle width to your deck width.
- Height: Trucks come in different heights: low, mid, and high. Low trucks are closer to the ground, making it easier to do tricks. High trucks give you more clearance for bigger wheels and are better for cruising or rougher surfaces. Mid trucks are a good all-around choice.
- Bushings: These are the rubbery rings inside your trucks. They help you turn. Softer bushings make turning easier and smoother. Harder bushings make turning stiffer, which is good for stability at high speeds. You can even swap them out to change how your trucks feel.
- Kingpin: This is the bolt that holds the bushings and pivots together. Most trucks have one kingpin. Some trucks have slightly different kingpin designs for better turning or grinding.
Important Materials
Skateboard trucks are usually made from strong metals.
- Aluminum Alloy: This is the most common material. It’s lightweight and strong. Most trucks you see will be made from this.
- Magnesium Alloy: This is even lighter than aluminum but can be more expensive. It’s a good choice if you want to shave off weight.
- Titanium: This is the lightest and strongest, but also the most expensive. It’s usually for pro skaters who want the absolute best.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
- Brand Reputation: Well-known brands often use better materials and have more consistent quality control. This means their trucks are less likely to break or have problems.
- Weight: Lighter trucks can make it easier to do flip tricks and ollies. However, super light trucks might not be as durable. You need a good balance.
- Durability: Trucks that are made with strong alloys and good construction will last longer. Look for trucks that feel solid and have smooth pivot points.
- Grindability: The metal used on the hangers (the part that grinds on rails and ledges) matters. Smoother, harder metals grind better and wear down slower.
User Experience and Use Cases
- Street Skating: For street skaters who do tricks like ollies, flips, and grinds, mid-to-low trucks with medium-hard bushings are usually preferred. This gives good control for tricks and stability on ledges.
- Park Skating: Park skaters often use mid-height trucks. They offer a good balance for carving bowls and hitting ramps. Bushing hardness can vary based on personal preference for turning.
- Cruising/Longboarding: For cruising or longer boards, higher trucks are often better. They allow for bigger wheels, which roll over cracks and bumps more easily. Softer bushings are great for smooth, easy turning.
- Beginners: Beginners might find mid-height trucks with slightly softer bushings easier to learn on because they offer a good mix of stability and responsiveness for turning.
Choosing the right trucks is a personal journey. Experiment and see what feels best for your skating!
Frequently Asked Questions about Skateboard Trucks
Q: How do I know what size trucks to buy?
A: You should match your truck’s axle width to your skateboard deck’s width. If your deck is 8 inches wide, you’ll generally want trucks with an 8-inch axle.
Q: What’s the difference between low, mid, and high trucks?
A: Low trucks are closer to the ground, good for flip tricks. High trucks are farther from the ground, better for bigger wheels and rough surfaces. Mid trucks are a good middle ground.
Q: What do the bushings do?
A: Bushings are the rubbery parts that help you turn. Softer bushings make turning easier, while harder bushings make turning stiffer and more stable.
Q: Can I change the bushings on my trucks?
A: Yes, you can! You can buy different hardnesses of bushings to customize how your trucks turn and feel.
Q: What are the best trucks for beginners?
A: For beginners, mid-height trucks with medium-soft bushings are often recommended. They offer a good balance of stability and easy turning.
Q: Does the brand of trucks matter?
A: Yes, brand reputation often means better quality materials and construction. Popular brands have a history of making durable and well-performing trucks.
Q: How important is the weight of skateboard trucks?
A: Lighter trucks can make tricks easier, but they might not be as strong. You want a good balance between being light and being durable.
Q: What material are most skateboard trucks made of?
A: Most skateboard trucks are made from strong aluminum alloy, which is a good balance of light weight and toughness.
Q: How do I know if my trucks are too loose or too tight?
A: If your trucks are too loose, your board might feel wobbly and hard to control. If they’re too tight, it will be difficult to turn. You adjust this with the kingpin nut.
Q: What are “independent trucks” or “venture trucks”?
A: These are popular brands of skateboard trucks. Many skaters have their favorite brands based on performance and feel.
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.