Ever feel like your skateboard just isn’t turning the way you want it to? Maybe it feels wobbly on rough ground, or perhaps you’re struggling to land those new tricks. You’re not alone! Choosing the right skateboard trucks can feel like a puzzle with too many pieces. It’s a super important part of your setup, but with so many brands, sizes, and shapes, it’s easy to get confused.
Getting this crucial component wrong can really hold you back. It can make skating feel harder, less fun, and even lead to frustration when you can’t quite nail that trick. But what if there was a way to cut through all the noise? What if you could understand exactly what makes one truck better for your style than another?
In this post, we’re going to break down everything you need to know about skateboard trucks. We’ll explain what they do, how to pick the perfect size for your board, and what different materials and features mean for your ride. By the end, you’ll have the confidence to choose trucks that will make your skateboarding smoother, more responsive, and way more enjoyable. Let’s get rolling and find your perfect match!
Our Top 5 Trucks For Skateboard Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
Jizmo Skateboard Trucks | 9.2/10 | Check Price |
 |
TLHB Skateboard Truck | 8.9/10 | Check Price |
![[CCS] Skateboard Trucks](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41mUnLQDemL._SL500_.jpg) |
[CCS] Skateboard Trucks | 8.6/10 | Check Price |
 |
Independent Stage 11 Skateboard Trucks – Set of 2 (144(8.25″)) | 9.2/10 | Check Price |
 |
Softrucks Pair Skateboard Trucks (Set of 2) | 9.4/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Trucks For Skateboard Detailed Reviews
1. Jizmo Skateboard Trucks
Rating: 8.6/10
Ready to build your first skateboard or upgrade your current ride? The Jizmo Skateboard Trucks, Wheels, and Hardware Combo Starter Set in Black is a fantastic all-in-one package. It’s designed for beginners and offers everything you need to get rolling. This set includes durable trucks, fast wheels, smooth bearings, and all the tools to put it all together.
What We Like:
- This set includes two 139mm standard skateboard trucks made of aluminum. They are strong and good for cruising or doing tricks.
- You get four 52mm skateboard wheels with 95A hardness. These wheels work well for learning new skills or just riding around town.
- The ABEC-9 skateboard bearings are included. They help your wheels spin smoothly and fast, and they are a good value compared to more expensive bearings.
- The set comes with a handy T-tool. You can use it to tighten or loosen almost everything on your skateboard, like the kingpin, wheels, and truck bolts. It’s a must-have tool for any skater.
- It also includes 2mm riser pads to help prevent wheel bite and standard skateboard hardware to attach everything.
What Could Be Improved:
- While this set is great for starting out, the components might not be as advanced as those used by experienced skaters who compete or do very technical tricks.
- The 90A bushings on the trucks are firm, which might feel a bit stiff for some riders who prefer a softer, more responsive feel for turning.
This Jizmo starter set makes building your skateboard simple and fun. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking to get into skateboarding without breaking the bank.
2. TLHB Skateboard Truck
Rating: 8.5/10
Ready to hit the streets or the skatepark? The TLHB Skateboard Truck, Skateboard Wheels 52mm, Skateboard Bearings, Skateboard Pads, and Skateboard Hardware Combo Starter Kit in crisp white is your all-in-one solution. This kit is built to last and designed for skaters of all levels. It’s a great way to get your skateboard rolling smoothly and looking sharp.
What We Like:
- Built to Last: The trucks are made with strong aluminum alloy and hardened steel. This means they can handle serious weight and pressure without a problem. The metal baking paint also adds a layer of protection.
- Great for All Skaters: The wheels have a perfect hardness (95a) and bounce (60%). This makes them awesome for both experienced pros and beginners. You won’t have to worry about slipping too much or the wheels cracking.
- Super Smooth Ride: The kit includes ABEC-9 skateboard bearings. These high-quality bearings spin for a long time without load, giving you an incredibly smooth and fast ride.
- Perfect Fit: These trucks are designed for skateboard decks that are 7.5 to 8 inches wide. The whole set fits these deck sizes perfectly, so you don’t have to guess.
- Everything You Need: This combo kit includes 5.0 trucks, 52mm wheels, ABEC-9 bearings, 1-inch screws, 2mm riser pads, and spacers. It’s a complete package to get you started or upgrade your current board.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited Deck Size Compatibility: The kit is specifically designed for 7.5-8″ decks. If your deck is a different size, you’ll need to look elsewhere.
- Color Options: Currently, the kit is only available in white. More color choices would be a nice addition for skaters who want to customize their look.
This TLHB skateboard kit provides excellent value and performance for skaters. It’s a fantastic starting point for anyone looking to build or upgrade their skateboard.
3. [CCS] Skateboard Trucks
Rating: 9.1/10
The [CCS] Skateboard Trucks are built for skaters who want reliable performance. These trucks are made with strong steel, and they come with everything you need to get them on your board. You can pick from different sizes and colors to match your style. Whether you’re hitting the streets or the skatepark, these trucks are designed to handle it all.
What We Like:
- They come in a set of two, which is what you need for a skateboard.
- CCS includes 1-inch mounting hardware, so you don’t have to buy it separately.
- The trucks are made of strong steel, so they are built to last.
- They have no-slip axles and kingpins for better grip.
- CCS has been around since 1985 and tested these trucks themselves.
- They have special bushings that help you turn smoothly and with more control.
- These trucks are good for all types of skating, from street to cruising.
What Could Be Improved:
- The raw silver finish might show scratches more easily than black.
- While tested by experts, long-term durability for very aggressive skating could be a future consideration.
These CCS Skateboard Trucks offer a solid combination of quality and value for skaters of all levels. They provide a smooth ride and dependable performance for your skateboarding adventures.
4. Independent Stage 11 Skateboard Trucks – Set of 2 (144(8.25″))
Rating: 8.8/10
The Independent Stage 11 Skateboard Trucks – Set of 2 (144(8.25″)) are a solid choice for skaters looking for reliable performance. These trucks are known for their strength and smooth turning, making them a favorite among many skateboarders. The 144mm size is a popular choice for decks around 8.25 inches wide, offering a balanced feel for street and park skating.
What We Like:
- These trucks are incredibly strong. They can handle rough landings and heavy use without bending.
- They turn really smoothly. This makes carving and maneuvering feel effortless.
- The silver finish looks classic and cool on any skateboard.
- Independent trucks are built to last. You get great value for your money because they don’t wear out quickly.
- They come as a set of two, so you have everything you need to get your board rolling.
What Could Be Improved:
- For beginners, the initial feel might be a little stiff. Some adjustment might be needed.
- While durable, they are not the absolute lightest trucks on the market.
Overall, the Independent Stage 11 trucks are a fantastic upgrade for any skateboarder. They offer durability and a smooth ride that will boost your confidence.
5. Softrucks Pair Skateboard Trucks (Set of 2)
Rating: 8.6/10
The Softrucks Pair Skateboard Trucks are a game-changer for skateboarders of all levels. These black, one-size trucks are designed to help you improve your skills and build confidence.
What We Like:
- They are great for beginners and experienced skaters alike.
- The super thick, durable TPU Urethane absorbs shock and adds stability.
- You can learn new tricks faster and build muscle memory.
- They help you develop better foot placement and body positioning for improved style and strength.
- The 4-point contact design eliminates rolling, giving you a stable platform for practice.
- They have a realistic truck height, weight, and feel, making practice feel like the real thing.
- You can even practice stalls and grinds with them.
- Mounting hardware, including 1 1/4″ Philips bolts and nuts, is included.
What Could Be Improved:
- While they eliminate rolling, this might not be ideal for skaters who want to practice cruising or carving.
- The focus is on skill building, so they don’t replicate the full experience of riding with rolling trucks.
These Softrucks offer a unique way to practice and improve your skateboarding. They are a fantastic tool for building fundamental skills and gaining confidence.
Choosing the Right Skateboard Trucks: Your Ultimate Guide
Skateboard trucks are the metal parts that attach your wheels to your deck. They are super important for how your skateboard rides. Picking the right trucks can make a big difference in your skating. This guide will help you choose the best trucks for you.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for skateboard trucks, you’ll see a few important things.
Truck Width
Truck width is how wide the trucks are. It should match the width of your skateboard deck. If your trucks are too wide or too narrow, your board won’t turn as well. Most trucks come in different sizes. Look at the measurement in millimeters (mm). A good rule is to pick trucks that are close to the width of your deck. For example, if your deck is 8 inches wide, look for trucks around 7.75 to 8.25 inches.
Axle Height
This is how high the truck sits off the ground. Trucks come in low, mid, and high heights.
* Low trucks are closer to the ground. They are good for smaller wheels and make it easier to do tricks.
* Mid trucks are in the middle. They are a good all-around choice.
* High trucks are further from the ground. They are good for bigger wheels and rougher surfaces. They also give you more space for leaning when you turn.
Bushings
Bushings are the rubbery rings inside the truck. They help you turn and absorb bumps. Bushings come in different hardness levels. Softer bushings make turning easier. Harder bushings make the ride more stable. Many skaters change their bushings to get the perfect feel.
Important Materials
Skateboard trucks are usually made from strong metals.
- Aluminum Alloy is the most common material. It is light and strong. This makes it great for skating.
- Magnesium Alloy is even lighter than aluminum. It is also very strong. Trucks made of magnesium can be more expensive.
- Titanium is another strong and light metal. Titanium trucks are usually the most expensive. They are for skaters who want the absolute lightest setup.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Good trucks will make your skating better. Cheap trucks can make it harder.
- Brand Reputation: Well-known brands often make higher-quality trucks. They have been making trucks for a long time. They know what works best.
- Weight: Lighter trucks are easier to flip for tricks. But they shouldn’t be so light that they break easily.
- Durability: Good trucks can handle lots of use and abuse. They won’t bend or break easily. Look for trucks that feel solid.
- Turning Ability: Trucks that turn smoothly and predictably are better. This helps you control your board.
- Kingpin Clearance: This is the bolt that goes through the middle of the truck. If it sticks out too much, it can get caught when you grind. Good trucks have a kingpin that is not too long.
User Experience and Use Cases
The trucks you choose depend on how you skate.
- Street Skating: If you do lots of tricks like ollies, flips, and grinds on ledges, you’ll want trucks that are not too high. Mid-height trucks with slightly softer bushings are popular.
- Park Skating: For skate parks with ramps and bowls, mid to high trucks work well. They give you good stability for higher speeds and carving.
- Cruising: If you just want to ride around town, you might want softer bushings. This makes the ride smoother and easier to turn. Wider trucks can also feel more stable.
- Beginners: Beginners often do well with mid-height trucks. They are a good balance for learning tricks and riding comfortably.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How do I know what size trucks to buy?
A: You should match the width of your trucks to the width of your skateboard deck. Most decks are between 7.5 and 8.5 inches wide.
Q: What is the difference between low, mid, and high trucks?
A: Low trucks are closer to the ground, good for tricks. High trucks are further from the ground, good for bigger wheels and carving.
Q: Do bushings really make a difference?
A: Yes, bushings affect how your board turns. Softer bushings make turning easier, and harder bushings make the ride more stable.
Q: Can I use trucks from one brand on a deck from another brand?
A: Yes, as long as the truck width matches your deck width, you can mix and match brands.
Q: How often should I replace my skateboard trucks?
A: Trucks don’t need to be replaced often. You replace them if they are bent, broken, or if you want a different size or height.
Q: What does “turn” mean for skateboard trucks?
A: “Turn” refers to how easily and smoothly your skateboard leans and changes direction when you shift your weight.
Q: Are more expensive trucks always better?
A: Not always. While expensive trucks often use lighter materials, good quality trucks can be found at different price points. Focus on the features that fit your skating style.
Q: What are grind kingpins?
A: Grind kingpins are stronger kingpins that are made to withstand grinding on ledges and rails without getting damaged easily.
Q: Can I change my bushings myself?
A: Yes, changing bushings is a common and easy way to customize your ride. You just need a skate tool.
Q: What kind of trucks are best for cruising?
A: For cruising, many people prefer softer bushings for a smoother ride and easier turning. Mid to high trucks can also offer more stability.
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 Luigi Smith, the voice behind carrepairmag.com. As a passionate car enthusiast with years of hands-on experience in repairing and maintaining vehicles, I created this platform to share my knowledge and expertise. My goal is to empower car owners with practical advice, tips, and step-by-step guides to keep their vehicles running smoothly. Whether you’re a seasoned mechanic or a beginner looking to learn, carrepairmag.com is your go-to source for all things car repair!