There are a lot of different skateboard trucks and truck brands on the market these days. So, which one should you choose? It depends on what kind of rider you are! In this article, we will discuss the 4 best skateboard trucks for different kinds of riders. We will also provide some tips on how to choose the right truck for you. Let's get started!
How We Choose Great Skateboard Trucks
Buying skateboard trucks can be confusing because there are so many different brands and materials to choose from.
There are so many different skateboard trucks on the market, it can be hard to decide which ones are right for you. Not only do you need to consider the size, weight, height, material, and durability of the trucks, but also how much you're willing to spend and whether you want a single truck or a pair.
We've researched for you and have hand-picked 4 of the best skateboard trucks on the market. Read our article to learn more about what to look for when buying a skateboard truck.
Best Skateboard Trucks Overall
INDEPENDENT Stage 11 Polished Standard Skateboard Trucks
Why We Love It
Independent trucks have been a favorite among skateboarders for years, and for good reason. They offer great performance, solid construction, and a great ride. Our team has tested many pairs of Independent trucks, and they've never let us down. They turn great, grind well, and feel solid underfoot.
If you're looking for a pair of trucks that will give you years of good skating, Independent trucks are the way to go. They're built to last, and they offer great value for the price. So if you're looking for the best skateboard trucks on the market, look no further than Independent.
What You Should Know
If you're looking for a top-quality all-purpose skateboard truck, look no further than the Independent trucks. This updated design features new geometry for an even better ride. Only the best materials are used in construction, and it's all assembled right here in the USA.
The Stage 11 Standard Truck is perfect for any type of skateboarding. It's durable and can handle anything you throw at it. The 55mm height is optimal for performance and wheel clearance with wheels 56mm and under.
The hanger and baseplate are made from A356 T6 aluminum alloy, which is heat treated for strength, durability, and grind feel. The axle is made from SCM435 chromoly steel for high quality and durability. And the kingpin is grade 8 for unbeatable strength.
Don't settle for anything less than the best. Get the Independent trucks and enjoy your skating to the fullest.
Best Skateboard Trucks For Street Skating
Thunder Polished Hollow Lights 2 Trucks
Why We Love It
The Thunder Polished Hollow Lights are good on grinds, slides, and flips, and they have great bushings that turn nicely. They're also super light, so you can do all sorts of tricks with them. If you love to perform flip tricks, this is the best option.
What You Should Know
Looking for a truck that can handle all terrain and withstand the rigors of skateboarding? Look no further than Thunder Trucks. With high-tech design and construction, Thunder Trucks are built to last.
With a 49mm truck axles height, extra strong reinforced hollow axles, hollow kingpins, and custom forged aluminum baseplates, make these trucks are extremely durable, while still being lightweight and easy to maneuver.
Whether you're hitting the streets or the skate park, Thunder Trucks will give you the ride you need. So don't wait - grab a set of Thunder Trucks and hit the road!
Why We Love It
Ace Skateboard truck is one of the most important parts of a skateboard, and the Ace Skateboard Trucks AF1 are some of the best on the market. Our team put these trucks to the test and we can attest to their durability and performance. Ace trucks are one of the most durable trucks on the market.
They're perfect for both street skating and bowl skating, and they offer great grinds and slides with a lot of pop. Plus, they come in a variety of colors to choose from so you can customize your board to look just the way you want it. If you're looking for high-quality, durable skateboard trucks, the Ace Skateboard Trucks AF1 are the perfect choice.
What You Should Know
Ace Skateboard Trucks AF1 is the all-new skate truck that is changing the game with its amazing performance. These trucks are made using a proprietary casting process that results in a 70% increase in the aluminum's structural integrity. This makes them the strongest cast trucks on the market!
The updated sizing on the 44 thru 77 models makes them a great fit for tons of different board widths. So if you're looking for a new set of skate trucks that will take your riding to the next level, Ace Skateboard Trucks AF1 is the way to go!
Most Durable and Lightweight Trucks
Independent 149mm Forged Titanium Raw Skateboard Trucks
Why We Love It
As a skater who does a mix of street, park and vert skating, I'm always looking for gear that can handle it all. These Independent titanium trucks have exceeded my expectations. Compared to standard aluminum ones I've used before, they are noticeably lighter which helps my tricks feel more effortless.
Yet the forged titanium construction means they are also rock solid - even after heavy sessions over rough pavement and ledges, they still maintain their shape. This is 15% lighter than the regular Stage 11.
What You Should Know
- 149mm width is perfect for a range of decks from cruisers to street/park shapes
- More expensive than aluminum but worth the investment for durability
Skateboard Trucks FAQs
Here are the most frequently asked questions about Skateboard Decks
Do all trucks fit all decks?
Not all trucks fit all decks. Some decks are wider than others, and some trucks have different shapes and sizes.
It is important to select a truck that is the same shape and size as the deck you are using. If the truck is too small, the deck will not be supported properly, which could lead to damage. If the truck is too large, it will be more difficult to maneuver and could also lead to damage.
What happens if your trucks are too small?
If your skateboard trucks are too small, they will be less stable and more difficult to turn. This can cause you to lose control while skating and lead to accidents.
In general, it is important to make sure that your skateboard trucks are the right size for your board. Skateboard trucks come in a variety of sizes, so be sure to choose the ones that are best suited for your skateboard.
How do you break in skateboard trucks?
It's best to start by tightening the kingpin nut all the way. Then, back off the nut one-half turn. This will give you some play in the hanger so that it can move more freely. Next, apply pressure to each side of the truck (in a pushing motion) and move it back and forth a few times. You should also do this while turning the truck from side to side. Finally, re-tighten the kingpin nut.
If you don't have any skateboard tools, a screwdriver or coin can be used to tighten or loosen the kingpin nut. Be careful not to over-tighten it though, as this can damage the threads on the axle.
Is it better to use loose trucks or tight trucks?
There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on personal preference and riding styles. Some skaters prefer to skate loose because they feel it gives them more freedom of movement, while others find it harder to control their skates when they're loose.
Skating tight can make you feel more stable and secure, but some people find it restrictive and uncomfortable. Ultimately, it's up to the individual skater to experiment with different levels of tightness and looseness to see what feels best for them.
Do pro skateboarders use riser pads?
It depends on the skateboarder. Riser pads are foam or rubber blocks that are placed between the skateboard deck and the trucks to increase the height of the deck, which in turn increases the distance between the wheels and the deck. This allows for a greater range of motion for turning and tricks.
Are ace AF1 trucks light?
Yes, ace AF1 trucks are light. They're made of aluminum, which is a lightweight material. That makes them ideal for skateboarding because it's easier to move around and perform tricks.
Do pros use high or low trucks?
There is no definitive answer to this question, as different skaters have different preferences. Some pros prefer high trucks for stability and a more fluid skating style, while others prefer low trucks for better maneuverability and more control over their board. Ultimately, it comes down to what feels best for the individual skater.
Do hollow trucks make a difference?
Yes! Hollow trucks are more lightweight than solid trucks, and they provide a smoother ride. They're also more responsive to turns, which is why many experienced skaters prefer them.
How long do Thunder trucks last?
Thunder trucks are made of incredibly high-quality materials and construction, so they typically last a very long time. Depending on how often you skate and how well you take care of your trucks, they could last for 9 months to years.
What is the difference between skateboard trucks?
There are a few key differences between skateboard trucks that can affect your riding experience. The width of the truck affects stability and turning ability; a wider truck is more stable but can’t make tight turns as easily, while a narrower truck is less stable but easier to maneuver.
The height of the trucks also influences how your board responds; high trucks are good for catching big air and grinding on obstacles, while low trucks provide a stable ride with good turning ability.
Finally, the hardness of the bushings impacts how smoothly your trucks turn; softer bushings make for a smoother ride but can cause your board to feel sloppy, while harder bushings give you more control but can feel jarring.
What are the most popular skateboard truck brands?
- Independent Truck Company
- Ace Trucks
- Thunder
- Venture Trucks
What is the difference between low trucks, mid trucks, high trucks?
For low trucks, the deck is closer to the ground, making the handling of the deck more stable. Also, low trucks are lighter; however, the risk of wheel bite is relatively high.
For mid trucks, this is between low trucks and high trucks. It is best for beginners who can't decide which deck to choose.
For high trucks, the deck is farther from the ground which reduces the chance of wheel bite and is suitable for all wheel sizes; however, high trucks are heavier and unstable when turning.
Are you ready to shop for the best skateboard trucks?
And if you need help picking the right quality trucks, here you go!
INDEPENDENT Stage 11 Polished Standard Skateboard Trucks
Best Skateboard Trucks Overall
Thunder Polished Hollow Lights 2 Trucks
Best Skateboard Trucks For Street Skating
Ace Skateboard Trucks AF1
Best Skateboard Trucks For Bowl Skating
Independent 149mm Forged Titanium Raw Skateboard Trucks
Most Durable and Ligthweight Trucks
Thank you for reading! I hope this article helped you to choose the best skateboard trucks for your needs. Happy skating!
