We love skateboarding and the trucks are the heart of any skateboard. Choosing the right ones can make a big difference in your skating experience. From size and material to durability and price, there are many factors to consider when selecting the best skateboard trucks.
A good truck can help doing the tricks and stunts more easily. In this article, we will provide an overview of some of the top skateboard truck brands and help you make an informed decision.
We have personally tested more than 40 skateboard trucks and made a top 7 list. Whether you’re a beginner looking for your first set of trucks or an experienced skateboarder seeking high-performance options, there are plenty of great options to choose from.
So, lets check out what these skateboard trucks offers:
At A Glance Skateboard Trucks
| Product | Features | ||
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Best Overall Independent 149 Stage 11 |
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Runner-Up CCS Skateboard Trucks |
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Best Seller VJ 5.0 Skateboard Trucks |
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Best For Street Gullwing Sidewinder II Trucks |
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For Beginners Venture Polished Low |
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Top 7 Best Skateboard Trucks Reviews 2023
1. Independent 149 Stage 11 Standard Truck – Our Top Pick
Best Overall
- Size: 5-6.25 Inches
- Height: 2.16 Inches
- Bushings Durometer: 90A
In search of the best skateboard trucks? Then independent 149 Stage 11 Standard trucks from Independent are the best option of trucks. This is the number one skateboard trucks you’ll get on the market.
1stly, the trucks axles are made from Chromoly-steel. These are more durable than the traditional steel. This means you can easily expect the trucks to last for years. What we loved most about the trucks is the bushings. These trucks come with medium hard bushings. Moreover, trucks upgraded for precise turns, stability on landing, and decreased wheel bite. These smooth turns and better stability on landing are ensured for every ride. So, you can expect a smooth and stable ride from the trucks. With combination of these features, it satisfies all types of skateboarding needs.
Key Features
- Sturdy Chromoly-steel trucks.
- Superior smooth and stable ride.
- Satisfy all skateboarding needs.
Pros:
- Multiple size options.
- Medium-hard bushings.
Cons:
- Only downside is the weight.
Verdict: Independent 149 Stage 11 ranks the best trucks for skating in the sport. It’s one of the best skateboard trucks for cruising.
2. CCS Skateboard Trucks
Top Rated
- Size: 5.07-5.8 Inches
- Height: —
- Bushings Durometer: —
CCS has 30 years of high quality skateboard part manufacturing experience. So, you can expect high performance from them. They’ve top-rated skateboard trucks coming for the street. What makes CCS Skateboard Trucks unique from others?
1stly, CCS trucks come at a cheap price without compromising quality. It’s around 30 dollars compared to the competition. They offer the best value, making it a budget friendly pick for the deal. Any skateboard lover wants trucks that are lighter, stable, and durable. Hopefully, this skateboard truck is lightweight, durable as well as stable. The more you skate, the more you’ll go through the trucks. What’s more, it’s designed for skateboarders of all levels.
Moreover, the trucks are tall enough to give plenty of clearance. The trucks also come with responsive bushings. In truth, the high rebound bushings allowed it to maneuver effortlessly. Has steel base plates, axle, hanger; all are ready to upgrade your board.
Key Features
- Durable, lighter skateboard trucks.
- Designed for all levels of riders.
- High rebound responsive bushings.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly price.
- Beginners to advance skaters.
Cons:
- Bushings are so soft.
Verdict: In search of the best skateboard trucks for the street? This top rated skateboard truck is suggested for you.
3. VJ 5.0 Skateboard Trucks
Best Seller
- Size: 5 Inches
- Height: 2.36 Inches
- Bushings Durometer: 90A
Searching for something more than the skateboard trucks? Then the all-in-one skateboard set will hit the road now! It’s all-in-1 skateboard set includes a truck, wheel, bearing, etc. That’s why VJ 5.0 is a best sellers skateboard truck in the market.
First of all, it has 5-inch aluminum trucks. These mid-size trucks suit street or park skateboarding. It’s has 90a bushings and 6-hole base plates. Besides, all-purpose 52mm wheels are waiting off the ground. Hard wheels have control overtricks and mobility. Moreover, VJ 5.0 includes ABEC-7 rated skateboard bearings. These are 22-mm in diameter, 7-mm in width and core is 8-mm. It’s one of the most common standards in the skate industry.
Key Features
- Set of truck, wheel, bearing.
- Sturdy 5 inch aluminum trucks.
- All-terrain hard wheels.
- ABEC-7 skateboard bearings.
Pros
- Best value of money.
- Bestsellers in the market.
- Suitable for most decks.
Cons:
- Won’t work well for advanced skaters.
Verdict: VJ 5.0 all-in-all skateboard set together in one package. What’s more, you can get all the things for 20 dollars. Hit the road right now!
4. Gullwing Sidewinder II Trucks
Best For Street
- Size: 6-7.2 Inches
- Height: 2.8 Inches
- Bushings Durometer: 89A
Gullwing Sidewinder II is designed for cruising, carving, uphills, downhills, etc. That means it’s one of the best skateboard trucks for street riders. Firstly, Gullwing Sidewinder II features a double kingpin truck. This design has better balance and control on riding. Besides, conical bushings are added for additional stability. Every part of this truck is built with perfection for the best riding experience. While you’re trying for thrilling turns, these trucks are your best bet. Also, you can tighten the truck’s turning radius for more rebounds. Beginners have difficulty in handling Gullwing Sidewinder II trucks. So, only expert skaters can challenge the trucks. It also causes wheel bite once wheels are touching the deck. That’s dangerous, so make sure wheels will not touch the deck.
Key Features
- Double kingpin design trucks.
- Perfect cruising, carving, downhill. Conical bushing added stability.
Pros:
- Multiple size options.
- More maneuverability.
- Turn on tight corners.
Cons:
- Mainly for experienced riders. We suggest Venture Polished trucks for beginners.
Verdict: If you enjoy cruising, carving, uphills, or downhills, these trucks appeal to you. Without exaggeration, it’s one of the best skateboard trucks for the street.
5. Venture Polished Low Skateboard Trucks
Best For Beginners
- Size: 5 Inches
- Height: 1.9 Inches
- Bushings Durometer: 90A
Gullwing Sidewinder II is not for you? Don’t worry, we also have skateboard trucks for beginners. You can take a look at the Venture Polished Low Skateboard Truck. This is one of the best skateboard trucks for beginners.
Made from Aluminum alloy, Venture Polished is the lightest skateboard truck you’ll get. These aluminum alloy materials make it lightweight. However, don’t suspect them due to their thin form. Despite the thin form, these trucks are made to last long. Moreover, the trucks have tight turns and very smooth grinds. You can control them with better balance. Plus, the trucks are equipped with soft bushings. So, you can easily expect a more responsive experience. With a width of 5.25 inches, these trucks are perfect for large decks- 8.25 to 8.75-inches size.
The only downside is that these trucks are costly. However, if you can pay for them, they’re great skate trucks to use.
Key Features
- High-quality aluminum alloy trucks.
- Suitable for larger decks size.
- Smooth grinds and tight turns.
Pros:
- Durable and lightweight.
- Dependable for doing tricks.
Cons:
- Costly compared to others. But, the price is proper to its quality.
Verdict: If you’re hoping for the best skateboard trucks for beginners, then go with Venture Polished Low. These are lightest yet durable trucks you’ll get.
6. Independent Stage 11 Hollow Skateboard Trucks
Best For Heavy Riders
- Size: 5.4-6.65 Inches
- Height: 1.88 Inches
- Bushings Durometer: 90A
1stly you’ll notice the amount of positive reviews for Independent trucks. Because every skater knows their worth and reviews reflect that. If you’re searching for the best skateboard trucks for heavy riders, then you’ve got them here. Besides, Independent Stage 11 is an incredibly lightweight skateboard truck. Only 320 grams in weight, very lighter as skateboard trucks.
This skateboard truck is impact-resistant for steel axles. Plus, the trucks are equipped with medium bushings. So, you can expect a better ride with a heavyweight.
Independent Stage 11 Hollow Skateboard Trucks have a higher price range. They seem expensive compared to their competitors. In truth, the trucks will last long; so extra cash isn’t a big deal.
Key Features
- Incredibly light skateboard trucks.
- High-quality aluminum materials.
- Medium-hard bushings for stability.
Pros:
- Stylish and attractive.
- Simple-to-follow manual.
Cons:
- Expensive. However, the trucks will last long, so extra cash isn’t a bad deal.
Verdict: Whether you use a skateboard to cruise, street skate, or park ride, Independent Hollow are all-rounder.
7. Thunder Unisex Team
Most Popular
- Size: 8 Inches
- Height: 2-3 Inches
- Bushings Durometer: 90A
Our skateboard trucks reviews aren’t complete without Thunder Trucks. It’s one of the best skateboard truck brands in the industry. All of their products provide high-quality performance. Let’s start with the popular one – the Thunder Unisex Team Trucks.
With a width of 149 mm, these trucks are for decks- 8.2 to 8.5-inches size. The best part is that you get top-notch trucks at a reasonable price. Besides, these budget trucks are lightweight too. So, you don’t have trouble carrying the skateboard around. What’s more, the bushings on trucks won’t get flaky easily. Above all, Thunder has become the most popular skateboard truck out there.
Key Features
- Built-in high-quality materials.
- Better balance and control ride.
- Better grinds and tight turns.
Pros
- Lightweight, durable and stable.
- Budget-friendly price range.
Cons:
- Some scratch.
Verdict: It’s become popular because they’re amazing trucks at affordable prices. They’re also suitable for beginners as they’ve better balance and control.
Best Skateboard Trucks Buying Guide
For choosing the best trucks, the initial step is understanding different parts. Also, you have to know how they work.
Parts Of A Skateboard Trucks
Now, we will look at some parts of the trucks of a skateboard.
Baseplate: All the truck parts are attached to the baseplate. Rider uses this for mounting the trucks into the deck. You can fix the baseplate into the board by screws.
Hanger: Coming into a triangular shape, the hanger is the largest piece of the board truck. Support will be provided to the axle by it. Also, the hanger supports the trucks while performing tricks or making turns.
Axle: Axle is a lengthy rod that is installed into the board hanger. Simply, you are attaching the wheels to it.
Pivot: The pivot cushions and holds in the baseplate. And, you can replace this in case of any defect.
Kingpin: The kingpin is an important part of the trucks. It mounted directly into the baseplate while extending through the hanger and bushings.
Bushings: Usually, they are built with urethane. The bushings aid in the smooth turning of your skateboard.
Kingpin Nut: The kingpin keeps the trucks jointly to provide easy adjustability of the bushings.
Types Of Skateboard Trucks
Two major types of trucks are available based on riding style. We will focus on details about them later in this post. To decide which one is preferable for you, read below:
- Skateboard trucks (standard kingpin): Standard ones are the versatile kind of trucks used for any form of skateboarding. By loosening or tightening, they are adequately adjustable. So, the rider can customize them. Standard kingpin trucks are perfect for skatepark tricks and street skating.
- Reverse kingpin: They are pretty good skating trucks for cruising, skating, or carving downhills. Reverse kingpin ones are wider and taller than the standard trucks. However, they are highly customizable.
Skateboard Trucks Size
Truck size is the next most vital point to be considered. The axle width needs to be matched with the deck width. After knowing the advantages and disadvantages, you can confirm the appropriate size of the trucks.
Skateboard Truck Size Chart:
| Deck Width (Inch) | Truck Axle Width (Inch) |
| 7.25 – 7.625 | 7.4 |
| 7.4 – 7.875 | 7.6 |
| 7.6 – 8.0 | 7.75 / 7.8 |
| 7.75 – 8.25 | 8.0 |
| 7.875 – 8.375 | 8.125 |
| 8.0 – 8.5 | 8.25 |
| 8.25 – 8.75 | 8.4 / 8.5 |
| 8.5 – 9.25 | 8.75 |
| 8.75 – 10.0 | 9.5 |
| 9.0 – 9.75 | 9.25 |
| 9.25 – 10.0 | 9.5 |
| 9.75 + | 10.0 |
| 10.0 + | 10.5 |
Skateboard Trucks Technology
High Trucks: Whether you love to carve and cruise with the longboard or want to ride around, high trucks will fit you. The trucks are effective in any kind of terrain like bumpy roads or smooth sidewalks. High trucks has reliable responsive turn and additional wheel clearance.
Low Trucks: Low trucks are commonly used by technical skaters due to their quick riding ability. These trucks come with a super stable gravity center. To avoid wheel bite, use smaller wheels. They are ideal for flip tricks. Low trucks provide more balance and stability.
Hollow Trucks: Some trucks are made with hollow axles or kingpins for reducing weight. This will make the skateboard flick faster and pop higher. Nevertheless, it is your personal decision to select whether to go for the hollow trucks or not.
Skateboard Bushings
They are made of urethane cushions that slide on the board kingpin and lean on the hanger side. They give the truck high stability. As a result, you can customize the turning of the trucks. Harder one will restrict the turn. But, soft bushings give less stability with a reliable responsive turn.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: How to put trucks on a skateboard?
Answer: To put the trucks, let them be assembled with the right hardware. The hanger needs to be placed into the baseplate of the large holes. Thread your kingpin through the hanger hole. Slide the washer as well as bushing into each terminal of the kingpin. Secure the assembly with a kingpin nut and wrench. Repeat it.
Secondly, mounting your truck with the board. Then, slide four bolts into four board holes. Line the baseplate up while attaching the nuts. Use a screwdriver for tightening the nuts. Also, repeat this process. Then, add the wheels to the truck. And, slide two bearings and one wheel into one axle for inserting the bearings. Lastly, place the wheel on one axle while securing it with the nut. Repeat it for the remaining three axles.
Question: How to measure skateboard trucks?
Answer: The truck size is measured in the unit of inches followed by American standards. Their 1 inch equals the European measurement unit of 1 Zoll. It is about 2.54 cm. However, some manufacturers use mm for indicating the truck width. Any beginner can understand how to measure skateboard trucks.
With the right steps, you will be able to figure out the dimensions. Initially, the truck needs to be matched with the dimensions of the deck. It should not be too long or wide. On the other hand, a very short or narrow dimension is not preferable. So, you can easily measure the trucks of a skateboard.
Conclusion
In general, the skateboard trucks look similar but suitable selection is vital. Because only the best skateboard trucks ensure a smooth and stable ride. We reviewed popular skateboard trucks to help you with the deal.
Choosing the best skateboard trucks can be a challenging task due to the variety of brands and options available on the market. It’s important to consider factors such as size, material, durability, and price when selecting your trucks.
Ultimately, the best skateboard trucks for you will depend on your personal preferences and skating needs. With a little research and consideration, you can find the perfect set of trucks to enhance your skating experience.
Happy Skateboarding!
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