Ever wondered what makes your skateboard turn and carve those sweet lines? It’s all about the trucks! These unsung heroes are the backbone of your setup. But let’s be honest, picking the right ones can feel like trying to land a kickflip on a slippery surface – a little overwhelming and confusing.
There are so many different brands, sizes, and heights to choose from. It’s easy to get lost in the jargon and end up with trucks that just don’t feel right for your riding style. Maybe your board feels too wobbly, or perhaps it’s too stiff, making it hard to get that perfect grind. We’ve all been there, wishing there was a simple way to figure it all out.
That’s exactly why we’re here! In this post, we’re going to break down everything you need to know about skateboard trucks. We’ll cover what they are, how to choose the perfect size for your board, and what different features mean for your ride. By the end, you’ll have the confidence to pick out trucks that will make your skateboarding experience smoother, more controlled, and way more fun.
Our Top 5 Trucks For Skateboards Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
TLHB Skateboard Truck | 9.3/10 | Check Price |
 |
Independent Stage 11 Skateboard Trucks – Set of 2 (144(8.25″)) | 8.8/10 | Check Price |
 |
Jizmo Skateboard Trucks | 9.0/10 | Check Price |
 |
Independent Skateboard Trucks 149 Mid + 54mm Spitfire Burners Wheels | 9.2/10 | Check Price |
![[CCS] Skateboard Trucks](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41mUnLQDemL._SL500_.jpg) |
[CCS] Skateboard Trucks | 9.3/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Trucks For Skateboards Detailed Reviews
1. TLHB Skateboard Truck
Rating: 9.1/10
Ready to upgrade your skateboard or get started with a new setup? The TLHB Skateboard Truck and Wheel Combo Starter Kit in sleek black offers everything a skater needs. This kit is designed for both seasoned pros and beginners, providing a durable and smooth ride for your skateboarding adventures.
What We Like:
- The trucks are made with strong aluminum alloy and hardened steel, so they can handle a lot of pressure and weight.
- The wheels have a good balance of hardness (95a) and rebound (60%), which makes them great for most types of skating and prevents them from cracking easily.
- The ABEC-9 bearings are super smooth and spin for a long time without load, giving you a really nice, fast ride.
- This kit fits most standard skateboard decks that are 7.5 to 8 inches wide.
- You get a complete set with trucks, 52mm wheels, ABEC-9 bearings, hardware, a riser pad, and spacers – everything you need to build or fix your board.
What Could Be Improved:
- The kit is a starter set, so experienced skaters might want to choose individual parts for very specific needs.
- While durable, the black finish might show scratches over time with heavy use.
This TLHB starter kit is a solid choice for anyone looking to get a reliable and smooth skateboarding experience. It’s a great value for the quality and completeness of the package.
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 classic choice for skateboarders. These trucks are known for their strength and how well they turn. The 144mm size is perfect for boards that are about 8.25 inches wide. They come in a cool silver color that looks great on any setup. You get two trucks in the set, which is everything you need to get rolling.
What We Like:
- These trucks are super strong. They can handle a lot of riding.
- They turn really smoothly. This makes carving and tricks easier.
- The silver color is classic and looks good on most skateboards.
- They are made by Independent, a well-respected brand in skateboarding.
- The 144mm size is a popular choice for many skaters.
What Could Be Improved:
- Sometimes, the kingpin nut can be a little tight at first.
- They can be a bit heavier than some newer, lighter truck models.
Overall, the Independent Stage 11 Skateboard Trucks are a reliable and high-performing option for most skaters. They offer a great balance of durability and smooth turning for a fantastic ride.
3. Jizmo Skateboard Trucks
Rating: 9.5/10
Ready to build your own skateboard or upgrade your current setup? The Jizmo Skateboard Trucks, Wheels, Bearings, Pads, and Tool Combo Starter Set in sleek black is a fantastic choice for beginners and skaters looking for an affordable way to get rolling. This set has everything you need to assemble a solid entry-level skateboard that’s ready for cruising the streets or trying out some basic tricks.
What We Like:
- This set includes durable aluminum trucks that are built to last.
- The ABEC-9 bearings promise smooth and fast rolling, giving you a great ride.
- The 52mm, 95A wheels are versatile and work well for both cruising and learning new skills.
- You get a handy T-tool, making it easy to adjust your trucks and wheels.
- It also comes with riser pads to help prevent wheel bite, and all the hardware you need.
- This combo is an excellent value for anyone starting out in skateboarding.
What Could Be Improved:
- While good for beginners, the bushings might be a bit stiff for advanced riders who prefer a softer feel.
- The 52mm wheels are great for general use, but skaters who focus on specific styles like park or vert might want to consider larger or different durometer wheels later on.
This Jizmo starter set provides a well-rounded package for building your first skateboard. It’s a great way to get into skateboarding without breaking the bank.
4. Independent Skateboard Trucks 149 Mid + 54mm Spitfire Burners Wheels
Rating: 9.1/10
Ready to build a killer skateboard? This package gives you top-notch parts from brands you can trust. You get Independent Mid Trucks, Spitfire Burners wheels, and Bones Reds bearings. It’s everything you need to make a pro-level skateboard, minus the deck and grip tape. This kit makes building your dream board easy and awesome.
What We Like:
- The Independent Mid trucks are built tough with a special aluminum alloy. They help you do cool flip tricks and grind smoothly.
- Spitfire Burners wheels use new urethane that feels great and performs well without costing too much.
- Bones Reds bearings are the best for skateboarding. They are made with great materials for smooth rides and last a long time.
- The package includes 1″ Independent hardware and 1/8″ riser pads. These are all quality parts.
- You get only the best brands, no cheap filler parts.
What Could Be Improved:
- This kit doesn’t include the skateboard deck or grip tape, so you’ll need to buy those separately.
- The 99A durometer on the Spitfire Burners wheels might be a bit hard for very rough surfaces.
This component package is a fantastic way to assemble a high-quality skateboard. It’s a smart choice for skaters who want reliable performance from the start.
5. [CCS] Skateboard Trucks
Rating: 9.1/10
Get ready to roll with the [CCS] Skateboard Trucks! These professional-grade trucks are built tough with quality steel. They come in a variety of sizes like 109mm, 129mm, 139mm, 149mm, and 169mm, so you can find the perfect fit for your skateboard deck. You can choose between a sleek Raw Silver or a classic Black finish. Each set includes two trucks and 1″ mounting hardware, so you’re ready to get skating right away. We’re checking out the Raw, 139mm size, which is perfect for decks between 8.0″ and 8.25″ wide.
What We Like:
- The trucks come in a set of two, and they even include the mounting hardware you need to attach them to your board.
- These trucks are made from sturdy steel, meaning they are strong and won’t easily break.
- They have no-slip axles and kingpins, which helps keep everything secure.
- CCS has been around since 1985, and their experienced skaters tested these trucks to make sure they are high quality.
- The special bushings make turning smooth and controlled, helping you carve sharper turns.
- These trucks have a classic design that works well for street skating, hitting the skatepark, or just cruising around.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the steel is strong, some skaters might prefer lighter materials for certain tricks.
- The included 1″ hardware is great for most setups, but some thicker decks might require longer bolts.
These CCS trucks offer a great combination of durability and performance for any skater. They are a solid choice for upgrading your board and enjoying your rides.
Choosing the Right Skateboard Trucks: Your Ultimate Guide
Getting the right skateboard trucks is super important. Trucks are the metal parts that attach your wheels to your deck. They let you turn and grind. Picking the wrong ones can make skateboarding harder and less fun. This guide will help you find the perfect trucks for your ride.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for trucks, keep these things in mind:
Truck Width
Truck width should match your deck width. A good rule is that the axle (the part where the wheels attach) should be about the same width as your deck. This helps you steer better and prevents wheel bite (when your wheels rub on the deck). Most trucks come with a size number, like 5.25 or 149mm. This number usually refers to the width of the truck’s hanger. You can find charts online to help you match truck size to deck size.
Truck Height
Trucks come in different heights: low, mid, and high.
- Low trucks: Keep your board closer to the ground. This makes flip tricks easier.
- Mid trucks: A good all-around choice. They offer a balance between stability and ease of flipping.
- High trucks: Give you more clearance. This helps prevent wheel bite, especially with larger wheels. They also make carving feel smoother.
Bushings
Bushings are the rubbery rings inside the trucks. They control how easily your trucks turn.
- Softer bushings: Make trucks turn more easily. Good for cruising or lighter riders.
- Harder bushings: Make trucks stiffer. Better for stability at higher speeds or for heavier riders.
You can also buy different hardnesses of bushings to swap out and customize your ride.
Important Materials
Most skateboard trucks are made from metal.
Aluminum Alloys
Aluminum alloys are the most common material. They are strong and light. Good quality trucks use strong aluminum that won’t bend easily. Some trucks use hollow parts to make them even lighter.
Steel
The axle and kingpin (the main bolt) are usually made of steel. Steel is very strong and durable. This is important because these parts take a lot of stress.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Good trucks feel solid and turn smoothly.
Build Quality
Well-made trucks have smooth welds and no rough edges. The kingpin should be straight and the axle should be perfectly straight. Trucks with hollow kingpins or axles are often lighter and considered higher quality. Cheaper trucks might bend or break more easily.
Brand Reputation
Some brands are known for making high-quality trucks that last a long time. Doing a little research on brands can help you find reliable options.
User Experience and Use Cases
The trucks you choose depend on how you skate.
Street Skating
For street skating, many skaters prefer mid-height trucks. They offer a good balance for flip tricks and grinding ledges. Softer bushings can help with quick turns.
Park Skating (Ramps and Bowls)
For skate parks with ramps and bowls, higher trucks can give you more stability and clearance. This helps when you’re going fast or riding larger wheels. Stiffer bushings can also help with stability.
Cruising and Transportation
If you use your skateboard for getting around, you might want softer bushings. This makes turning easier and gives you a smoother ride. Mid to high trucks are usually good for cruising.
Weight of the Skater
Heavier skaters might need harder bushings for more stability. Lighter skaters might find softer bushings easier to turn.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How do I know what size trucks to buy?
A: Truck width should match your deck width. Look for charts online that show you the recommended truck size for different deck widths.
Q: What’s the difference between low, mid, and high trucks?
A: Low trucks are closer to the ground for flip tricks. High trucks offer more clearance and stability. Mid trucks are a good all-around choice.
Q: Do bushings affect how my trucks turn?
A: Yes, softer bushings make trucks turn more easily, while harder bushings make them stiffer.
Q: Can I change the bushings on my trucks?
A: Yes, you can buy different hardnesses of bushings and swap them out to customize your ride.
Q: What are the best trucks for beginners?
A: For beginners, mid-height trucks with medium-hardness bushings are a good starting point. They offer a balance of stability and maneuverability.
Q: How do I know if my trucks are good quality?
A: Good quality trucks are made from strong metal, have smooth welds, and the axle and kingpin are perfectly straight. They feel solid and turn smoothly.
Q: Do I need to buy trucks for both wheels on one side?
A: Yes, you buy trucks in pairs. You need two trucks for one skateboard.
Q: What does “wheel bite” mean?
A: Wheel bite happens when your wheels rub against your skateboard deck when you turn too sharply. This can slow you down or stop you unexpectedly.
Q: Are hollow trucks better than solid trucks?
A: Hollow trucks are lighter, which can be good for flip tricks. They are often considered higher quality, but can sometimes be less durable than solid trucks.
Q: How often should I replace my skateboard trucks?
A: You should replace your trucks when they become bent, cracked, or the kingpin is damaged. If they feel wobbly or don’t turn properly, it might be time for new ones.
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!