So, you’ve got a fresh deck, some wheels, and you’re ready to roll, right? But wait, what about those metal things that connect your wheels to your board? Yep, we’re talking about skateboard trucks! Choosing the right trucks can feel like trying to solve a puzzle with a million pieces, especially when you’re just starting out. It’s easy to get confused by all the different sizes, shapes, and brands out there.
The wrong trucks can make learning to skate way harder than it needs to be. They can affect how your board turns, how stable it feels, and even how easy it is to do tricks. You want trucks that help you learn, not hold you back! That’s why we’re diving deep into the world of skateboard trucks, specifically for beginners.
By the end of this post, you’ll know exactly what to look for. We’ll break down the basics so you can confidently pick out trucks that will make your skateboarding journey smooth and fun. Get ready to understand what makes those essential pieces tick, and how to choose the perfect pair to get you rolling!
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: 9.4/10
Get ready to shred with the [CCS] Skateboard Trucks! These trucks are built tough for skaters of all levels. You get a set of two trucks and all the hardware you need to get them on your board. They’re made of strong steel and designed to help you turn smoothly and stay in control.
What We Like:
- Built to Last: These trucks are made from strong steel. They have axles and kingpins that won’t slip, so you can trust them to hold up.
- Ready to Ride: The set comes with two trucks and 1-inch mounting hardware. This means you have everything to attach them to your skateboard deck.
- Smooth Turns: Premium bushings are used for easier and sharper turns. This gives you better control when you’re skating.
- Versatile Performance: Their classic design makes them great for street skating, hitting the skatepark, or just cruising around town.
- Skater Tested: CCS has been around since 1985! Their skate team and shop staff tested these trucks, and they proved their quality.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited Color Options: While they come in Raw Silver and Black, more color choices would be nice for personalization.
- Specific Deck Size: The 139mm size is great for 8.0″-8.25″ decks, but skaters with different sized decks will need to find other truck sizes.
These CCS trucks are a solid choice for any skater looking for reliable performance. They offer a great balance of durability and smooth handling for a fun ride.
2. TLHB Skateboard Truck
Rating: 9.3/10
Ready to hit the streets or the skatepark? The TLHB Skateboard Truck, Wheels, and Hardware Combo Starter Kit in black is designed to get you rolling with quality parts. This set includes everything a skater needs to upgrade their ride or build a new one, making it a fantastic choice for anyone looking to improve their skateboarding experience.
What We Like:
- The trucks are made with strong aluminum alloy and hardened steel. This means they can handle a lot of weight and pressure without breaking.
- The wheels have a 95a hardness and good rebound, which is great for both beginners and experienced skaters. They offer a smooth ride and won’t crack easily.
- The kit comes with ABEC-9 bearings. These bearings spin really well, giving you a super smooth and fast ride.
- The trucks fit most standard 7.5 to 8-inch skateboard decks. This makes it easy to upgrade your current board.
- You get a complete set: trucks, 52mm wheels, ABEC-9 bearings, screws, a riser pad, and spacers. It’s a convenient all-in-one package.
What Could Be Improved:
- While durable, the black finish might show scratches over time with heavy use.
- The “scooter” mentioned in the features seems to be a typo and refers to the skateboard trucks.
This combo kit offers excellent value and performance for skaters. It provides a solid foundation for any skateboarder looking for reliable and smooth-riding components.
3. Tony Hawk 31″ Skateboard – Signature Series 1 Skateboard with Pro Trucks
Rating: 8.7/10
Ready to hit the streets or the skatepark? The Tony Hawk 31″ Skateboard – Signature Series 1 is your ticket to fun and adventure. This board is designed for everyone, from total beginners to experienced riders, offering a smooth and stable ride. With its eye-catching graphics and the legendary Tony Hawk name, you’ll be cruising in style.
What We Like:
- Perfect for all skill levels, making it easy to learn and progress.
- Portable and lightweight design means you can take it anywhere.
- Sturdy 9-ply maple deck provides great stability and control.
- Features pro trucks for a smoother ride and better performance.
- Full grip tape ensures your feet stay put for safety.
- Comes in stylish graphics from the Tony Hawk Signature Series.
- Makes a fantastic gift for skaters of all ages for any occasion.
What Could Be Improved:
- While durable, the graphics might show wear with heavy use.
- Availability might be limited due to its popularity.
This skateboard is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a reliable and fun ride. Grab yours and start shredding!
4. Jizmo Skateboard Trucks
Rating: 8.6/10
Ready to build your first skateboard or upgrade your current ride without breaking the bank? This Jizmo Skateboard Combo Starter Set in cool blue has everything a beginner needs to get rolling. It’s a complete package designed to help you assemble a reliable entry-level skateboard, perfect for cruising around town or practicing your first tricks.
What We Like:
- Complete Starter Set: You get two durable aluminum skateboard trucks, four smooth-riding 60mm high-rebound wheels (83A), high-precision ABEC-9 bearings for fast, smooth rolling, a handy T-tool for adjustments, two 2mm riser pads, and all the necessary hardware. It’s a fantastic all-in-one solution.
- Durable Trucks: The aluminum trucks are built to last. They have a 5-inch hanger and a 7.6-inch axle, perfect for standard double kick concave decks. The 90A hard bushings offer a good balance for cruising and tricks.
- Smooth Wheels: The 60mm, 83A high-rebound wheels provide a comfortable ride, making cruising and street skateboarding much more enjoyable. They handle bumps and rough surfaces well.
- Essential Tool Included: The universal T-tool is a must-have for any skater. It lets you easily adjust your kingpin, wheels, and truck bolts, keeping your board in top shape.
- Great Value: This set offers excellent quality components at a price that’s perfect for beginners or those on a budget. The ABEC-9 bearings are a good alternative to more expensive options.
What Could Be Improved:
- Beginner Focus: While great for beginners, experienced skaters might want to customize with higher-end, specialized parts for more advanced riding.
- Color Options: Currently only available in blue, offering more color choices could appeal to a wider range of personal styles.
This Jizmo starter set is an excellent way to get into skateboarding. It provides the essential, quality parts you need to build a functional and fun skateboard.
5. Skateboards Complete Mini Cruiser Retro Skateboard for Kids Boys Youths Beginners 22 Inch(The Starry Sky)
Rating: 8.5/10
Get ready to cruise in style with the Meketec Mini Cruiser Retro Skateboard, featuring a cool “Starry Sky” design! This 22-inch skateboard is perfect for kids, boys, and youths who are just starting out. It’s built for fun and designed to stand out from the crowd.
What We Like:
- Unique “Starry Sky” design that makes your skateboard special.
- Eye-catching 3.25-inch trucks in different colors.
- Smooth riding with 60mm PU wheels and fast ABEC-7 bearings.
- Sturdy deck measuring 22.5 inches long and 6 inches wide, supporting up to 200 lbs.
- Great value for its cool look and good performance.
- CE certified, meaning it’s safe for riders of all levels.
- Perfect for taking to the park, school, or just around the neighborhood.
- Makes a fantastic holiday gift for young beginners.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the design is unique, some might prefer more color options for the deck itself.
- The “different color” trucks might not match everyone’s personal style preferences.
This Meketec mini cruiser offers a fun and safe way for beginners to learn skateboarding. It’s a fantastic option for anyone looking for a stylish and reliable starter board.
Choosing Your First Skateboard Trucks: A Beginner’s Guide
Why Trucks Matter for Beginners
Skateboard trucks are the metal parts that attach your wheels to your deck. They are super important! Good trucks help you steer and do tricks. Bad trucks can make skateboarding much harder. This guide will help you pick the best trucks for your first skateboard.
Key Features to Look For
Truck Width
Truck width is how wide the truck is. It should match your skateboard deck width. If your trucks are too wide, your wheels will stick out too much. If they are too narrow, your wheels might not reach the edges of the deck. Most beginner decks are around 7.5 to 8.5 inches wide. Check the size of your deck and find trucks that are close to that width.
Truck Height
Truck height refers to how high the truck sits off the ground. There are three main heights: low, mid, and high.
- Low trucks: These are closer to the ground. They are good for flip tricks because they make it easier to pop the board.
- Mid trucks: These are a good all-around choice. They offer a balance of stability and maneuverability.
- High trucks: These give you more clearance from the ground. They are good for cruising and rougher surfaces because they reduce the chance of “wheel bite” (when the wheel hits the deck).
For beginners, mid trucks are usually the best starting point. They are versatile and work well for learning.
Bushings
Bushings are the rubbery rings inside the truck that help you turn. They come in different hardnesses (durometers).
- Softer bushings: Make turning easier and smoother. They are good for lighter riders or those who want to turn quickly.
- Harder bushings: Make turning stiffer. They are good for heavier riders or those who want more stability at higher speeds.
Most beginner trucks come with medium-hard bushings. This is a good starting point. You can always change them later if you want a different feel.
Important Materials
Skateboard trucks are usually made of metal. The best trucks are made from strong metals. Aluminum is a common material. Some trucks have steel parts for extra strength. High-quality trucks use strong aluminum alloys. This makes them light but also tough enough to handle tricks and falls.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality Construction
Good trucks are built well. The metal should be smooth and strong. The kingpin (the bolt in the middle) should be sturdy. Trucks that are poorly made might bend or break easily. This can be dangerous.
Brand Reputation
Some skateboard brands have been making trucks for a long time. They know how to make good ones. Brands like Independent, Thunder, and Venture are known for quality. Buying from a trusted brand usually means you get better trucks.
Price vs. Quality
Sometimes, cheaper trucks are not as good. They might be made of weaker materials or not built as well. While you don’t need the most expensive trucks as a beginner, try to avoid the absolute cheapest options. A little more money can get you much better quality and a safer experience.
User Experience and Use Cases
For beginners, the main goal is to learn. Good trucks make learning easier. They feel stable when you roll and responsive when you try to turn. They help you feel confident as you practice.
You can use your trucks for:
- Cruising around
- Learning to push and balance
- Practicing ollies (jumping with the board)
- Riding on different surfaces
The right trucks will make these activities more enjoyable and less frustrating. They will be strong enough to handle bumps and small jumps as you get better.
Frequently Asked Questions about Skateboard Trucks for Beginners
Q: What is the most important thing to consider when buying beginner trucks?
A: The most important thing is to match the width of the trucks to the width of your skateboard deck.
Q: Should I buy low, mid, or high trucks as a beginner?
A: Mid trucks are usually the best choice for beginners because they are versatile and good for learning.
Q: What do bushings do?
A: Bushings are rubber rings inside the truck that control how easily you can turn. Softer ones turn easier, and harder ones are more stable.
Q: What size trucks do I need for a 8-inch wide deck?
A: You will likely need trucks that are around 8 inches wide. Check the specific truck measurements.
Q: Do I need to buy trucks and wheels separately?
A: You can buy them separately, but many complete skateboards already have suitable trucks and wheels.
Q: What are the best brands for beginner trucks?
A: Brands like Independent, Thunder, and Venture are known for quality, but many other good brands exist.
Q: How do I know if trucks are good quality?
A: Look for smooth metal, a strong kingpin, and trucks from reputable brands. They should feel solid.
Q: Can I change the bushings on my trucks later?
A: Yes, you can buy replacement bushings in different hardnesses to customize your turning feel.
Q: How much should I expect to spend on beginner trucks?
A: Beginner trucks can range from $20 to $50 per pair, depending on the brand and materials.
Q: Will better trucks make me skate better faster?
A: Good trucks will make skating more enjoyable and less difficult, which can help you learn faster. However, practice is still the most important part!
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.
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