Ever dreamed of cruising down the street or landing your first ollie? Skateboarding looks cool, but getting started can feel like a puzzle. One of the most confusing pieces? Skateboard trucks! These metal parts are super important, but picking the right ones for a beginner can be tricky. You might wonder: “What size is best for me?” or “Do I really need to know about kingpins?” It’s easy to feel lost in a sea of technical terms and brands.
But don’t worry! This blog post is here to guide you. We’ll break down everything you need to know about skateboard trucks in a way that’s easy to understand. By the end of this, you’ll feel confident choosing the perfect trucks to get your skateboarding journey rolling smoothly. We’ll cover what trucks do, how to pick the right size for your board, and what features matter most when you’re just starting out.
So, if you’re ready to ditch the confusion and get your board set up right, let’s dive into the world of skateboard trucks!
Our Top 5 Skateboard Trucks For Beginners Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Skateboard Trucks For Beginners Detailed Reviews
1. [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)
Rating: 8.8/10
Get ready to upgrade your ride with the [CCS] Skateboard Trucks! These professional-grade trucks are made from strong steel and come in a bunch of sizes, colors, and finishes. They even include everything you need to mount them to your skateboard deck.
What We Like:
- You get two trucks in a set, plus 1″ mounting hardware, so you’re ready to go.
- These trucks are built tough with quality steel for hangers and baseplates, plus no-slip axles and kingpins. They are super sturdy!
- CCS has been around since 1985, and their team tested these trucks to make sure they work great for experienced skaters.
- The high-rebound bushings help you turn smoothly and sharply, giving you better control.
- With their classic design, these trucks are awesome for street skating, hitting the skatepark, or just cruising around town.
What Could Be Improved:
- The specific raw silver 139mm size is perfect for 8.0″-8.25″ decks, but if your deck is a different size, you’ll need to check the other available sizes.
These CCS trucks offer a solid and reliable performance for any skater. They are a fantastic choice for anyone looking to improve their skateboarding experience.
2. Magneto Kids Complete Skateboard for Girls – 27.5″ x 7.75″
Rating: 9.2/10
Get ready for some serious fun with the Magneto Kids Complete Skateboard! Designed by skaters and inspired by sunny California surf culture, this board is all about cool style and easy cruising. Its bright Ice Cream deck isn’t just eye-catching; it’s built tough from premium 7-ply hard maple for durability. With a compact 27.5″ x 7.75″ size, it’s super portable, making it perfect for taking to the park, school, or just around the neighborhood.
What We Like:
- The “Ice Cream” design is super cool and unique.
- It’s made from strong 7-ply hard maple wood.
- The double kicktails make it easy to learn tricks.
- 80-grit grip tape keeps your feet planted securely.
- It’s a great size for beginners and easy to carry around.
- The components like wheels and trucks are good quality for the price.
- Magneto wants to make skateboarding affordable for everyone.
What Could Be Improved:
- While great for beginners, more experienced skaters might want a larger or more specialized board.
- The 95A wheels are good for smooth surfaces, but might be a bit bumpy on rougher roads.
This Magneto skateboard is a fantastic way for young skaters to start their journey. It balances style, quality, and affordability, making it a winning choice for any budding skater.
3. 24 inch Rude Boyz Mini Cruiser Skateboard – Aluminium Trucks – Kids Skateboard Ages 5-8 Beginner – Skateboards for Kids
Rating: 8.5/10
Ready to get your little one rolling? The 24 inch Rude Boyz Mini Cruiser Skateboard is built for fun and learning, specifically for kids aged 5-8. This board is designed to make skateboarding easy and enjoyable for beginners, supporting riders up to 121lbs. It’s not just a skateboard; it’s a gateway to adventure!
What We Like:
- Perfect for beginners aged 5-8, making learning to skate a breeze.
- Lightweight and durable construction ensures easy handling and longevity.
- Arrives fully assembled, so kids can start riding right away.
- Features authentic 6″ aluminum trucks, 54mm wheels, and ABEC-7 bearings for smooth performance.
- The shorter deck offers better control and balance, ideal for new skaters.
- Stylish Rude Boyz designs add a cool factor and can even double as room decor.
- Designed for versatile cruising with a concave deck, tapered shape, and rounded kick tail/nose.
What Could Be Improved:
- While durable, the 24-inch size might be outgrown relatively quickly by older kids in the target age range.
- Availability might be limited, so snagging one when you see it is a good idea.
This Rude Boyz mini cruiser is a fantastic starter skateboard that balances quality and fun. It’s an excellent choice for introducing your child to the exciting world of skateboarding.
4. AXDT Skateboard Wheels Set
Rating: 9.2/10
Ready to upgrade your ride? The AXDT Skateboard Wheels Set is your all-in-one solution for building or refreshing your skateboard. This black-on-black kit comes with everything you need to get rolling: sturdy trucks, smooth wheels, fast bearings, and all the necessary hardware. It’s designed to fit most standard skateboards, making it a fantastic choice for riders of all levels.
What We Like:
- This set includes all the essential parts for a complete skateboard setup.
- The trucks are made from a strong magnesium aluminum alloy and can handle a lot of weight.
- The wheels have a 100A hardness, which is great for beginners because they offer good grip and are less likely to slip.
- The wheels are made with PU infusion, so they won’t crack easily.
- ABEC-9 bearings mean your wheels will spin super fast and smooth.
- The set fits skateboards with decks between 7.5 and 8 inches wide.
- The black on black color scheme looks sleek and stylish.
What Could Be Improved:
- While 100A hardness is good for beginners, more experienced skaters might want a slightly harder wheel for different tricks or surfaces.
- The riser pads are only 2mm, which might not be enough to prevent wheel bite on certain setups.
This AXDT Skateboard Wheels Set is a solid choice for anyone looking to get their skateboard in top shape. It offers good quality components at a great value, perfect for getting you out on the street or at the skatepark.
5. Skateboards Complete Mini Cruiser Retro Skateboard for Kids Boys Youths Beginners 22 Inch(The Starry Sky)
Rating: 9.5/10
Ready to cruise in style? The Meketec Mini Cruiser Retro Skateboard, “The Starry Sky” edition, is here to make your rides out of this world! This 22-inch complete skateboard is designed for fun and ease, perfect for kids, boys, youths, and anyone just starting out. Its cool starry sky design is sure to turn heads.
What We Like:
- The Meketec Advantage lets your skateboard stand out with unique, colorful 3.25-inch trucks.
- Great performance with a 22.5-inch deck that holds up to 200 lbs.
- Smooth rides thanks to 60mm*45 PU wheels and fast ABEC-7 bearings.
- High value for money, offering a cool look that rivals more expensive brands.
- It’s a fantastic holiday gift idea for beginners of all ages.
- Certified safe with CE certification, making it suitable for all rider levels.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it boasts unique trucks, the overall deck design might be too simple for some advanced riders.
- The 22-inch size is ideal for beginners, but taller or more experienced riders might prefer a larger board.
This Meketec mini cruiser is a stellar choice for anyone looking for a fun, safe, and stylish way to get around. Grab yours and start exploring!
Choosing Your First Skateboard Trucks: A Beginner’s Guide
What are Skateboard Trucks?
Skateboard trucks are the metal parts that attach your wheels to your skateboard deck. They are L-shaped and connect to the trucks with a kingpin. Trucks allow you to steer your skateboard. They are super important for skateboarding!
Why are Trucks Important for Beginners?
As a beginner, the right trucks can make a big difference in how easy and fun skateboarding is. Good trucks help you learn to turn and balance better. Bad trucks can make skateboarding frustrating and even unsafe.
Key Features to Look For in Beginner Trucks
Truck Width
Truck width is very important. It should match your skateboard deck width. If your trucks are too wide, your wheels might hit the deck when you turn. If they are too narrow, your board might feel wobbly. A good rule is to have the truck axle be about the same width as your deck. Most beginner decks are around 7.5 to 8.5 inches wide.
Truck Height
Truck height affects how high you can “ollie” (jump with your board) and how your wheels might hit the deck when you turn. Lower trucks are more stable and make it easier to do tricks closer to the ground. Higher trucks give you more clearance for bigger wheels and can make turning easier. For beginners, a medium height is usually a good starting point.
Bushings
Bushings are the rubbery rings inside the trucks. They help you turn. Softer bushings make turning easier and smoother. Harder bushings make turning stiffer. Beginners usually want softer bushings because they make it easier to lean and turn the board.
Important Materials
Aluminum Alloy
Most skateboard trucks are made from an aluminum alloy. This makes them strong but also light. Good quality aluminum alloy trucks will last a long time and won’t break easily. Cheaper trucks might use lower quality aluminum that can bend or break faster.
Steel Axle
The axle is the part that the wheels attach to. It needs to be very strong. Most trucks use steel for the axle because it’s very durable. Make sure the axle feels solid and doesn’t bend easily.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Manufacturing Quality
How the trucks are made really matters. Trucks with smooth finishes and no rough edges are usually better quality. Well-made trucks will turn smoothly and feel stable. Poorly made trucks might feel clunky or wobbly.
Brand Reputation
Some brands are known for making high-quality skateboard parts. These brands often use better materials and have better manufacturing processes. While you don’t always need the most expensive trucks, sticking to well-known brands can give you more confidence in their quality.
Weight
Lighter trucks can make your board feel more nimble and easier to maneuver. However, trucks that are *too* light might not be as strong. A good balance between strength and weight is ideal for beginners. Very heavy trucks can make learning tricks harder.
User Experience and Use Cases
Learning to Turn
For beginners, trucks that allow for smooth and easy turning are essential. This helps you get comfortable with controlling your board. Softer bushings really help with this. You’ll be able to lean and steer without feeling like you’re fighting the board.
Stability
Good trucks offer stability, which is important when you’re just starting out. You want to feel secure on your board. Trucks that are the right width for your deck and have decent bushings will provide this stability. Wobbly trucks can make you feel nervous.
Durability
As a beginner, you might fall a lot. Your trucks need to be strong enough to handle some bumps and scrapes. Investing in decent quality trucks means they will last longer, even as you improve and try new things.
Versatility
Most beginner trucks are designed to be good all-around. They work well for cruising around, learning basic tricks, and just getting the feel of skateboarding. You don’t need super specialized trucks when you’re first starting.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best truck width for a beginner?
A: The best truck width usually matches your deck width. For most beginner decks (7.5 to 8.5 inches), trucks around that size are good.
Q: Should I get soft or hard bushings?
A: Beginners usually benefit from softer bushings because they make turning easier and smoother.
Q: How do I know if my trucks are the right size?
A: The ends of your trucks (the axles) should be about as wide as your skateboard deck.
Q: Do I need expensive trucks to start skateboarding?
A: No, you don’t need the most expensive trucks. Focus on good quality and the right size for your board.
Q: What happens if my trucks are too wide or too narrow?
A: If they’re too wide, your wheels might hit the deck when you turn. If they’re too narrow, your board can feel wobbly.
Q: How do I adjust my trucks?
A: You can tighten or loosen the large nut on the kingpin. Tightening makes turning harder, and loosening makes it easier.
Q: What are the most important parts of a truck?
A: The axle, the baseplate, the kingpin, and the bushings are the main parts.
Q: Will better trucks help me learn faster?
A: Yes, well-made trucks that turn easily can make learning to balance and steer much more enjoyable and help you progress.
Q: How long do skateboard trucks usually last?
A: With good care, quality trucks can last for several years, even with regular use.
Q: Can I use trucks from a different brand than my deck?
A: Yes, you can mix and match truck brands with deck brands as long as the width is correct.
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.
Hi, I’m Sean Kernan, the voice behind esteeringwheel.com.. With a passion for all things automotive, I created this platform to share my journey, insights, and expertise about cars. From the latest tech to timeless driving tips, my goal is to help fellow enthusiasts and everyday drivers navigate the fascinating world of automobiles. Welcome to my corner of the road—let’s steer toward knowledge and discovery together!