Ever stood in a skate shop, staring at rows of trucks, feeling totally lost? Been there, done that. Let’s break down everything you need to know about choosing your first set of trucks, so you can spend less time shopping and more time shredding.
In this guide, we’ll cover truck sizing, brands, and some insider tips to get you rolling. Trust me, after two decades of eating concrete, I’ve learned a thing or two about what makes a good setup.
If you’re a visual learner, check out this Tactics vid.
A video titled ‘How to Choose Skateboard Trucks | Sizing Guide | Tactics‘ from the Tactics Boardshop YouTube channel.
Key takeaways
- Match your truck width to your deck width for optimal performance and stability
- Consider truck height based on your skating style: low for street, high for vert
- Bushings significantly affect your board’s turning ability
- Different truck brands offer unique characteristics – experiment to find your perfect match
The anatomy of a truck
First off, what are these so-called trucks, and why should you care? Simply put, trucks are the metal T-shaped pieces that connect your wheels to your deck. They’re the crucial components that allow you to turn, grind, and keep your ride smooth. Here is a rundown of the anatomy and part of the skateboard truck.
- Hanger: The large triangular piece that’s the heart of your truck. It’s where you grind and where the axle sits.
- Baseplate: This flat piece mounts directly to your deck, holding everything together.
- Kingpin: The big bolt running through your truck, holding the hanger and baseplate together. Adjusting this changes how tight or loose your trucks feel.
- Bushings: Those rubbery discs around the kingpin. They affect how smoothly you turn.
- Axle: The long pin that runs through the hanger, where your wheels attach.
- Pivot Cup: A small cup that allows the hanger to pivot smoothly when you turn.
Standard vs. Reverse Kingpin Trucks
One more note: Please do NOT make the mistake of purchasing longboard trucks! There are two main types of truck designs: Standard Kingpin (SKP) and Reverse Kingpin (RKP).
- Standard Kingpin Trucks (SKP): These are your go-to for traditional skateboarding. The kingpin (that big bolt we talked about) faces inward, toward the center of the board.
- Reverse Kingpin Trucks (RKP): Mostly found on longboards and cruisers, the kingpin faces outward. RKP trucks provide deeper turns and are more responsive at lower speeds, perfect for carving and cruising but not so hot for kickflips and ollies.
Unless you’re setting up a longboard or cruiser, stick with standard kingpin trucks. They’re designed for the tricks and styles most skateboarders are into.
Alright, let’s get into the meat of it. What should you consider when picking out trucks?
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Truck width: Size matters
Your truck width should match your deck width—plain and simple. Riding an 8.5″ deck like me? Then you’ll want trucks that are about the same width.
Why’s that important? Mismatched widths can throw off your balance and make tricks harder. Too narrow, and you’ll feel wobbly; too wide, and turning becomes a chore.
| Deck Width (in) | Truck Size (Common Labels) |
|---|---|
| 7.5″ | 5.0 / 129 |
| 7.75″ | 5.0 / 5.25 / 139 |
| 8.0″ | 5.25 / 139 |
| 8.25″ | 5.5 / 144 |
| 8.5″ | 149 / 159 |
| 8.75″ and up | 159 / 169 / 215 |
Matching your deck to your tracks
Know your deck width: This is crucial. Your trucks should be as flush to your deck as possible. You don’t want wheels sticking out or hiding under your board. But Jedain, can’t I just eyeball it? Sure, if you want your board to ride like a wonky shopping cart. Take the extra two minutes to measure.
Matching your truck width to your deck width is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it ensures stability by providing better balance, especially during landings and at higher speeds. When your trucks align perfectly with your deck, control improves, making turning and carving feel more natural and responsive. A well-balanced setup also enhances performance, making flip tricks and grinds more predictable and easier to execute.
Tip: Match Your Truck Width to Your Deck
Always ensure your truck width matches your deck width. A proper match improves stability, balance, and overall performance.
What Happens with the Wrong Truck Width?
- Trucks Too Narrow:
- The board becomes unstable and wobbly.
- Increased risk of wheel bite (wheels sitting too close under the deck).
- Visually odd, potentially affecting confidence.
- Trucks Too Wide:
- Turning becomes sluggish due to reduced responsiveness.
- Added weight at the ends of the board hinders flip tricks.
- Increased risk of wheels catching on obstacles since they extend beyond the deck’s edge.
So, what’s the moral here? Don’t skimp on matching your truck width to your deck. It’s a small detail that makes a massive difference. But is a slight mismatch acceptable? A variance of up to 0.25 inches is generally okay. Anything more, and you’ll start noticing performance issues.
Tip: Don’t always take the manufacturer’s word
Always check the manufacturer’s specifications. A “5.0” truck from one brand might have slightly different measurements than another brand’s “5.0.”
To make your life easier, here’s a quick reference chart:
| Brand | 7.0 & Under | 7.5 | 7.75 | 8 | 8.125 | 8.25 | 8.375 | 8.5 | 8.625 | 8.75 | 8.875 | 9 | 9.125 | 9.25 | 9.5 | 9.75 | 10 & Over |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Independent | 109 | 129 | 129-139 | 139 | 139-144 | 144 | 144-149 | 149 | 149-159 | 159 | 159 | 169 | 169 | 169 | 169 | 215 | 215 |
| Thunder | 143 | 145 | 145-147 | 147 | 147-148 | 148 | 148-149 | 149 | 149-151 | 151 | 151 | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| Venture | — | 5.0 | 5.0-5.2 | 5.2 | 5.2-5.6 | 5.6 | 5.6-5.8 | 5.8 | 5.8-6.1 | 6.1 | 6.1 | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| ACE Trucks MFG | 00-11 | 22 | 22-23 | 33 | 33-44 | 44 | 44-55 | 55 | 55-60 | 60 | 60-66 | 66 | 66 | 66-77 | 77 | 77 | — |
| Royal | — | 5.0 | 5.0 | 5.25 | 5.25-5.5 | 5.5 | 5.5 | 5.5 | 5.5 | 5.5 | — | — | — | — | — | — | |
| Krux | 7.6 | 7.6″-8.0″ | 8.0″ | 8.0″-8.25″ | 8.25 | 8.25″-8.5″ | 8.5 | 8.5 | 8.5″-9.0″ | 9.0″ | 9.0″ | 9.0″ | 9.0″ | — | — | — | |
| Tensor | 5.0 | 5.0-5.25 | 5.25 | 5.25-5.5 | 5.5 | 5.5-5.75 | 5.75 | 5.75 | 5.75 | — | — | — | — | — | — | ||
| Mini Logo | 7.13″ | 7.63″ | 7.63″-8.0″ | 8.0″ | 8.0″ | 8.0″-8.38″ | 8.38″ | 8.38″-8.75″ | 8.75″ | 8.75″ | — | — | — | — | — | ||
| Bullet | 110mm | 120-130mm | 130-140mm | 140mm | 140-145mm | 145 | 145-150mm | 150mm | 150mm | 150mm | — | — | — | — | — | ||
| Lurpiv | — | 139 | 139 | 139-144 | 144 | 144-149 | 149 | 149 | 149-159 | 159 | 159 | — | — | — | — | — |
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Truck height: Low, mid, or high?
- Low Trucks (46-48mm): Ideal for street skating and flip tricks. They offer more stability for technical maneuvers.
- Mid Trucks (50-52mm): The versatile middle ground. Good for all-around skating.
- High Trucks (53-56mm): Best for vert skating and larger wheels. They prevent wheel bite during deep turns.
Advantages and disadvantages: Low vs. High Trucks
Understanding the pros and cons of different truck heights can help you choose the right setup for your skating style.
Low Trucks:
- Better stability for technical street skating
- Easier to perform flip tricks
- Lower center of gravity for better balance
- Quicker response for precise maneuvers
High Trucks:
- Increased wheel clearance, reducing wheel bite
- Better for carving and pumping in transition skating
- Improved turning radius for smoother lines
- Can accommodate larger wheels for more speed
Low Trucks:
- More prone to wheel bite, especially with larger wheels
- Less turning radius, which can limit carving ability
- May feel less stable at high speeds or on ramps
- Can be challenging for transition skating
High Trucks:
- Less stable for technical street skating tricks
- Can feel “twitchy” or overly responsive for some riders
- May require more effort to pop the board for ollies and flip tricks
- Higher center of gravity, which can affect balance for beginners
When I started hitting vert, switching to higher trucks was a game-changer. So, should you switch truck heights based on terrain? Absolutely. Tailoring your setup to your skating style can make a world of difference.
Bushings: The tight and loose factor
Bushings come in different hardness levels, known as durometer ratings. Softer bushings make turning easier but can feel unstable at high speeds. Harder bushings offer stability but require more effort to turn.
After a nasty spill from loose trucks back in my NYC days, I tend to keep my trucks tight with harder bushings. But when I’m cruising the bowls, I’ll loosen up a bit for that smooth carve.
Can’t I just stick with one setup? You could, but experimenting helps you find what feels right for different terrains.
Tip: Experiment with Truck Tightness
Don’t be afraid to adjust your truck’s tightness. Looser trucks offer better turning but less stability, while tighter trucks provide more stability but less maneuverability. Use a skate tool to find your perfect balance.
Truck Materials
Trucs are almost exclusively aluminum, but there are other materials, more on that in a few. Is lighter always better? Not necessarily. Lighter trucks can help with flip tricks, but they might not hold up to heavy grinding. I prefer something sturdy that won’t bail on me mid-trick.
Truck Materials Beyond Aluminum
We’ve mostly talked about aluminum trucks, the industry standard, but let’s explore some other material options. Spoiler alert: there’s more out there for the gear nerds among us.
Pros:
- Lighter Weight: Correct. Magnesium trucks are up to 25% lighter than standard aluminum trucks, which can make flip tricks easier due to reduced weight.
- Strong Enough: Generally accurate. Magnesium trucks offer sufficient durability for many skating styles, especially street and technical skating.
Cons:
- Durability: Partially correct. While magnesium is lighter, it can be less durable under heavy impacts and grinds compared to aluminum. Some skaters report that magnesium trucks wear down faster, especially during aggressive grinding.
Pros:
- High Strength-to-Weight Ratio: Partially correct. Titanium has a high strength-to-weight ratio, but in the context of skateboard trucks:
- Titanium Axles: Some trucks feature titanium axles combined with aluminum hangers, offering weight reduction and increased strength where it matters most.
- Entire Titanium Trucks: Fully titanium trucks are extremely rare due to cost and manufacturing challenges.
- Durability: Correct regarding corrosion resistance. Titanium is highly resistant to corrosion and wear, enhancing the longevity of the parts made from it.
Cons:
- Pricey: Correct. Titanium components significantly increase the cost of trucks.
- Availability: Correct. Titanium trucks or trucks with titanium components are less common and may not be readily available in all markets.
Pros:
- Lightweight: Correct. Composite materials like carbon fiber can reduce weight compared to traditional aluminum trucks.
- Unique Feel: Generally accurate. Some skaters appreciate the vibration-dampening properties of composites, which can provide a different riding experience.
Cons:
- Durability Issues: Correct. Composite trucks may be less durable under heavy stress, such as aggressive grinds and high-impact landings.
- Cost vs. Benefit: Correct. The high cost of manufacturing composite trucks may not provide proportional performance benefits for all skaters.
Is lighter always better? If you’re a tech skater focused on flip tricks, shaving off a few grams might help. For vert skaters or those who grind a lot, durability is king, and standard aluminum trucks are hard to beat.
What’s the bottom line? Experiment if you’re curious and have the cash, but don’t feel pressured. Aluminum trucks have served skaters well for decades for a reason—they’re a solid, reliable choice.
Brand reputation and quality
Let’s talk brands. Independent, Thunder, Venture, Tensor – they’re all solid choices. Here’s my take: find what feels right for you.
I’ve been riding Thunder trucks for years, and they’ve never let me down. They offer great turn and are lighter than Independents, which I appreciate. But here’s the thing – it’s all about personal preference.
Recently, I’ve been experimenting with Tensor Maglights, particularly the newer ATG version. At first, the lighter weight made me feel like I had less control, but after a few weeks, I got used to it. Now, I love how it makes popping tricks just a bit easier.
One standout feature of Tensor Mags is how well they grind. I’ve been able to do ride-on grinds on some unwaxed curbs that would cause my friends’ Indy trucks to hang up immediately. The trade-off is that they might wear down faster due to this quality, so keep that in mind if you’re on a tight budget or do a lot of grind tricks.
Do brands really matter? Sometimes. It’s about finding a brand that matches your style and sticking with what works. Don’t be afraid to try different brands and see what clicks for you.
| Brand | Model | Axle Width (in) | Truck Height (mm) | Material | Price Range ($) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Independent | 129 Standard | 7.6 | 55 | Aluminum | 50 |
| Thunder | 145 Low | 7.62 | 49 | Aluminum | 50 |
| Venture | 5.0 High | 7.5 | 53 | Aluminum | 50 |
| Ace | AF1 33 | 8.0 | 52 | Aluminum | 60 |
| Tensor | 5.25 Regular | 8.0 | 52 | Aluminum | 50 |
| Royal | 139 | 8.0 | 52 | Aluminum | 50 |
This table compares key factors like axle width, recommended deck width compatibility, truck height, construction material, and typical price range for six popular truck models from major brands like Independent, Thunder, Venture, Ace, Tensor, and Royal.
Riding style considerations
Here some pointers depending upon your riding style.
If you’re all about flip tricks and technical moves, consider:
- Lighter trucks: Easier to get off the ground.
- Lower height: Better for stability during flips.
- Responsive bushings: For quick turns and maneuvers.
Is investing in specialized street trucks worth it? If you’re serious about street skating, definitely.
For those big ramps and bowls:
- Higher trucks: Prevents wheel bite on deep turns.
- Sturdier build: To withstand the impact of vert skating.
- Slightly looser setup: Allows for smoother carving.
When I started focusing more on vert, adjusting my trucks made a huge difference. Loosening them up felt sketchy at first, but it improved my flow on the ramps.
Do I need a separate setup for vert? Not necessarily, but tweaking your trucks can enhance your performance.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Skimping on quality: Going for the cheapest trucks might save you a few bucks now, but you’ll pay later. Trust me, a snapped truck isn’t worth the savings. But aren’t all trucks the same? Not quite. Quality materials and construction make a big difference in durability.
- Ignoring personal comfort: Just because a pro skater uses a certain brand doesn’t mean it’s right for you. Skateboarding is personal—find what feels good under your feet. Should I test different setups? If you can, absolutely. Borrow a friend’s board or try out demos at your local shop.
- Mismatching widths: We’ve covered this, but it’s crucial. Make sure your truck width matches your deck. Is a slight mismatch a big deal? Even a small difference can throw off your balance and control.
The Impact of Geometry on Performance
The geometry of your trucks—things like the pivot angle and hanger width—affects how your board turns and responds.
- Pivot Angle: This is the angle between the pivot axis and the baseplate. A higher angle means sharper turns but less stability at speed. Most standard trucks have a pivot angle that’s optimized for a mix of stability and maneuverability.
- Hanger Width: While we matched the axle width to our deck earlier, the hanger itself (excluding the axle protrusions) affects how the truck turns. A wider hanger offers more stability, while a narrower one allows for quicker turns.
But do I need to obsess over these details? Not really, especially as a beginner. Just know that truck geometry is why different brands and models feel different.
Enter Riser Pads
Wheel bite happens when your wheels rub against your deck during a turn or landing. It’s a quick way to get tossed off your board—ask me how I know.
If you’re keen on using larger wheels but don’t want to switch to higher trucks, riser pads are your new best friend. Riser pads are plastic inserts that sit between your trucks and deck, raising the overall height of your board. Some benefits include:
- Prevents Wheel Bite: Adds clearance for larger wheels.
- Shock Absorption: Can reduce stress cracks in your deck from heavy landings.
- Customization: Available in various thicknesses, usually from 1/8″ to 1/2″.
Do I need riser pads? If you’re experiencing wheel bite or want to ride bigger wheels for speed and smoother rides, riser pads are a solid solution.
Regular maintenance
Is maintenance that important? If you want your gear to last and perform well, you bet it is.
- Check for cracks: Especially if you’re hitting big tricks.
- Tighten hardware: Loose bolts can lead to disaster.
- Clean your trucks: Dirt buildup can affect performance.
Replacing worn-out parts
Bushings and pivot cups wear out over time. Swapping them out can make your trucks feel brand new.
Do these small parts really matter? Absolutely. Fresh bushings can drastically improve your turning and overall ride.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Skateboard trucks are typically made from a combination of materials. The main components (hanger and baseplate) are usually constructed from aluminum alloys for their lightweight yet durable properties. The axle is often made of steel for strength, while the bushings are made of urethane. Some high-end trucks use titanium for certain parts to reduce weight further. The kingpin and other hardware are usually steel for durability.
To check if your trucks are properly adjusted, try this simple test: Stand on your board and lean to one side. If the board tips easily without much resistance, your trucks are too loose. If it’s difficult to lean and turn, they’re too tight. Ideally, you want to feel some resistance when leaning, but still be able to turn smoothly. Remember, the right tightness is subjective and depends on your skating style and preferences. Experiment to find your sweet spot.
While it’s technically possible to use different truck heights on the same board, it’s generally not recommended. Using mismatched truck heights can lead to an uneven ride, affecting your balance and trick execution. It may also cause uneven wear on your wheels and potentially strain your ankles or knees. If you’re considering this for a specific reason (like compensating for an old injury), it’s best to consult with a skateboarding professional or your local skate shop for personalized advice.
Truck materials significantly impact performance. Aluminum trucks offer a good balance of weight and durability, making them suitable for most riders. Titanium trucks are lighter and stronger but more expensive, ideal for advanced skaters seeking performance gains. Hollow designs reduce weight further but may sacrifice some durability. The material choice affects your board’s overall weight, responsiveness, and ability to withstand impacts and grinds.
Yes, changing truck brands can indeed affect your riding style. Different brands have unique geometries, turning characteristics, and grind feels. For example, Independent trucks are known for their stability, while Thunder trucks offer quicker turns. Tensor Maglights provide smoother grinds but may wear faster. Experimenting with different brands can help you find the perfect match for your preferred skating style and terrain.
Breaking in new trucks is essential for optimal performance. Start by loosening the kingpin nut slightly to allow for easier turning. Spend time cruising and carving to help the bushings conform to your weight and riding style. Gradually tighten or loosen the trucks to find your sweet spot. For grind-focused setups, start with some basic grinds to wear down the paint on the hangers. Remember, it may take a few sessions before your trucks feel fully broken in and responsive.
Conclusion
Whether you’re shredding city streets or carving up vert ramps, the right trucks can elevate your skate game. Take the time to understand your options, and don’t be afraid to tweak your setup.
Remember, the best skater isn’t the one with the priciest gear—it’s the one having the most fun. And while you’re at it, don’t forget to choose the right skate shoes to complete your setup and enhance your performance.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got a date with a halfpipe. Stay stoked, and happy skating!
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