Skateboarding is a popular sport that requires a well-maintained board for optimal performance. While most skateboarders pay attention to the decks, trucks, and wheels, they often overlook the importance of skateboard bolts. These small but essential pieces of hardware hold the skateboard together, and their quality determines how well the board performs. In this article, we have compiled a list of the top 10 best skateboard bolts to help you choose the right one for your board. So, let’s dive into our comprehensive reviews and buying guide to find the best skateboard bolts for your ride.
Get ready for our reviews on the best skateboard bolts, but first, here are some related Amazon products to check out:
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Best Skateboard Bolts
Skateboard Bolts: A Quick Overview
Skateboard bolts are small, durable components that are essential to the makeup of a skateboard. They connect the trucks, which are the metal parts that hold the wheels, to the deck of the skateboard. Without bolts, it would be impossible to attach these components and the skateboard would not be functional. Skateboard bolts are typically made of steel or other durable materials and come in different lengths to accommodate different skateboard deck thicknesses. They are also available in a variety of colors and designs to add some style to the skateboard.
There are two main types of skateboard bolts: Phillips head bolts and Allen head bolts. Phillips head bolts have a cross-shaped head and can be removed or tightened with a Phillips head screwdriver. Allen head bolts have a hexagonal head and require an Allen wrench to tighten or loosen. While both types of bolts are effective, some skateboarders prefer Allen head bolts as they can be tightened more easily and provide a cleaner look. Overall, skateboard bolts may seem like a minor part of the skateboard but they play a crucial role in keeping all the components together and ensuring a smooth ride.
Reasons for Buying Skateboard Bolts
There are numerous advantages of purchasing high-quality skateboard bolts. Here are a few key reasons why investing in them can make a big difference to your skating experience.
To keep the skateboard deck attached to the trucks.
Skateboard bolts are an essential part of any skateboard setup. They are what keep the skateboard deck securely attached to the trucks. Without bolts, the skateboard deck would simply slide off the trucks as soon as a rider attempted to stand on it.
Skateboard bolts come in different lengths to fit various deck and truck combinations. They typically consist of a threaded bolt, a nylon locking nut, and a washer. Once the bolt is screwed into the truck, the nut is tightened down against the washer to lock the deck in place.
Choosing the right skateboard bolts is important to ensure a safe and stable ride. Bolts that are too short can cause the deck to wobble or become loose, while bolts that are too long can stick out of the board and pose a hazard to the rider. It’s important to regularly check and tighten the bolts to maintain a safe and reliable skateboard setup.
To provide stability and control while riding.
Skateboard bolts play a crucial role in providing stability and control while riding. These bolts attach the trucks to the deck or the bottom part of the skateboard. Without skateboard bolts, the trucks could easily come loose and cause instability while riding. This can be extremely dangerous and potentially lead to accidents or injuries.
Additionally, skateboard bolts affect the overall feel and performance of the skateboard. Choosing the right size and material of the bolts can affect how the trucks respond and how the skateboard feels while riding. This is especially important for professional skateboarders who need to make sure their skateboard is perfectly tuned to their individual preferences and needs. In summary, skateboard bolts are essential in providing stability, control, and overall performance while riding a skateboard.
To replace old or worn-out bolts.
After continuous use, skateboard bolts tend to wear out, rust, or loosen up, which affects the performance and safety of the skateboard. Loose bolts can cause the board to wobble, affecting the rider’s control over the board, while rusted bolts can break suddenly, potentially causing an accident. Over time, the bolts may even strip the threads inside the deck, leading to irreparable damage.
To avoid such situations and ensure the smooth functioning of the skateboard, it is essential to replace the old or worn-out bolts with new ones. Skateboard bolts are available in different sizes, materials, and colors, so one must choose bolts that are compatible with the skateboard and fit perfectly. By replacing the bolts, one can restore the stability, responsiveness, and safety of the skateboard, enabling the rider to enjoy a comfortable and smooth ride.
To customize the look and style of the skateboard.
Customization is an essential aspect of skateboarding culture, and many skateboarders strive to make their boards look unique and stand out from the others. An easy way to achieve this is by changing the bolts on the skateboard. Skateboard bolts come in different colors, styles, and sizes, which offer various options for customization. Some skateboarders choose to match the bolts’ color with other parts, such as wheels or decks, while others prefer bold and contrasting colors to create a statement look.
Additionally, skateboarding brands often release limited edition bolts with unique designs or collaborations with artists. By purchasing these limited edition bolts, skateboarders can show off their support for their favorite brands and artists while customizing their boards. Changing skateboard bolts also offers an easy way to refresh the look of the board without purchasing a new one. Overall, customization through skateboard bolts allows skateboarders to express their individuality and creativity while rolling around town.
Things to Consider when Choosing the Best Skateboard Bolts
One of the most important parts of a skateboard is the bolts that hold everything together. It is crucial to consider certain factors when looking for the best skateboard bolts that suit your needs.
Bolt length
Bolt length is an important factor to consider when purchasing skateboard bolts because it affects the stability and safety of the skateboard. If the bolts are too long, they can stick out from the top of the skateboard and potentially cause injuries to the rider. Similarly, if the bolts are too short, they may not secure the wheels and trucks properly, leading to instability and potential accidents.
Another reason to consider bolt length is the thickness of the skateboard deck. Different deck thicknesses require different bolt lengths to ensure a secure fit. Using the wrong length of bolt can damage the deck and the hardware, leading to costly repairs and replacements. Therefore, it is important to check the thickness of the skateboard deck before buying the bolts and ensure that the chosen bolt length is suitable for the deck.
Bolt diameter
Bolt diameter is an important factor to consider before buying skateboard bolts because it affects the strength and durability of the bolts. The diameter of the bolt determines the amount of force it can withstand without breaking or stripping. A larger diameter bolt will generally be stronger and less likely to break, while a smaller diameter bolt may be weaker and more susceptible to damage. It’s important to choose bolts with a diameter that matches the size of the mounting hardware holes on your skateboard deck to ensure a secure and safe ride.
Additionally, bolt diameter can also affect the compatibility of the bolts with different types of trucks. Some trucks have narrower or wider mounting holes, and choosing the wrong bolt diameter can lead to compatibility issues and potential safety hazards. Therefore, it’s essential to check the specifications of the trucks and deck when selecting the appropriate bolt size to ensure a stable and safe skateboard set-up.
Head shape
Head shape is an important factor to consider before purchasing skateboard bolts because each type of head shape requires a specific type of tool to tighten or loosen the bolt. For example, Phillips head bolts require a Phillips head screwdriver while Allen head bolts require an Allen key tool. Choosing the wrong type of head shape can lead to difficulty or even inability to properly tighten or loosen the bolts, which can become a safety hazard when skating.
Additionally, certain head shapes offer specific benefits. For example, countersunk bolts have a flush finish that reduces the risk of snagging on protruding bolt heads and can increase the lifespan of the skateboard deck. Therefore, considering the head shape of the bolts before purchasing can ensure the proper tools are available for maintenance and can optimize the performance and longevity of the skateboard.
Material
Skateboard bolts may seem like a minor component in the grand scheme of things, but they play a vital role in ensuring the safety and performance of your skateboard. The material of the bolts can affect their durability, strength, and even the overall weight of your skateboard. Choosing the right material can prevent your bolts from snapping or wearing out prematurely, ensuring a smooth and safe ride.
Furthermore, the material of your skateboard bolts can also impact the aesthetic appeal of your board. Some materials, such as colored bolts or titanium bolts, add a unique touch to your skateboard and can help show off your personal style. Ultimately, considering the material of your skateboard bolts before buying them can ensure that you are getting the best performance, durability, and appearance from your board.
Finish
Skateboard bolts play an essential role in securing the trucks to the deck of the skateboard. The finish of the bolts can affect their durability and appearance. While many people may not give much thought to the finish, it can make a difference in the long run. A good finish can prevent rusting and corrosion and improve the overall lifespan of the bolts. Additionally, the finish can add a stylish touch to the skateboard, making it look more visually appealing.
Furthermore, the finish can affect the ease of installation. Some finishes may make the bolts more difficult to install due to increased friction or other factors. Therefore, it is important to consider the finish of the bolts before making a purchase to ensure that they are compatible with your skateboard and easy to install. All in all, carefully considering the finish of skateboard bolts is crucial for ensuring that you have a durable, visually appealing, and easy-to-use skateboard that will last you for a long time.
Brand reputation
Brand reputation is an important factor to consider when purchasing skateboard bolts because it reflects the level of quality and reliability of the product. When a brand has a good reputation, it means that they have consistently delivered high-quality products that have satisfied customers. This can give you peace of mind, knowing that you are investing in a trusted brand that has a track record of producing durable and long-lasting skateboard bolts. On the other hand, purchasing from a brand with a poor reputation can result in lower quality products that may not perform as well, leading to an unsatisfactory skating experience.
Additionally, when considering brand reputation, it’s essential to read reviews and do research to gain insight into other skaters’ experiences with the same product. This can provide valuable information about the quality and durability of the bolts, as well as the overall customer experience. By selecting a brand with a strong reputation and positive reviews, you can help ensure that you are getting the best skateboard bolts that will last you for years, making your investment worth it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size skateboard bolts should I use?
The size of skateboard bolts you should use depends on the thickness of your skateboard deck. A general rule of thumb is to use 7/8 inch bolts if your deck is 7-ply or less, and 1 inch bolts if your deck is 8-ply or more. The length of the bolts is measured from the bottom of the deck to the top of the nut.
Using the correct bolt length is important because it ensures that your trucks are securely attached to your deck. If your bolts are too short, your trucks can loosen and wobble while you ride, which can be dangerous. On the other hand, if your bolts are too long, they can stick out and cause damage to your shoes or feet while you skate.
Can I use regular hardware store bolts for my skateboard?
It is not recommended to use regular hardware store bolts for a skateboard. Skateboard bolts are specifically designed to fit the skateboard trucks and must be the right length as well. Regular bolts may not fit properly, which can lead to instability and safety hazards. The correct size for skateboard bolts is 1 inch or 7/8 inch, and they typically come with a special thread pattern that ensures a proper fit with the trucks. Using incorrect bolts can also cause damage to the board and trucks. It is best to purchase skateboard bolts from a reputable skate shop to ensure proper fit and safety.
In summary, regular hardware store bolts should not be used for skateboards. They typically do not fit properly and can create safety hazards. It is recommended to purchase skateboard bolts specifically designed for use with skateboards from a reputable skate shop.
How tight should I tighten my skateboard bolts?
Yes, there are specific brands and models of cruiser bikes that are better suited for short women. Some of the top brands that make cruiser bikes for short women include sixthreezero, Firmstrong, Huffy, and Schwinn. These brands offer cruiser bikes with smaller frames, shorter handlebars, and lower seat heights, making them more comfortable and easier to ride for women who are shorter in stature.
Some of the popular cruiser bike models for short women include the sixthreezero EVRYjourney Women’s Step-Through Hybrid Cruiser, the Firmstrong Urban Lady Beach Cruiser Bicycle, and the Huffy 26″ Nel Lusso Women’s Cruiser Bike. These bikes have features like curved frames, adjustable saddles, and smooth-rolling tires that make them well-suited for casual leisure rides, commuting, and cruising around town.
Do I need to use threadlocker on my skateboard bolts?
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, choosing the right skateboard bolts can make a significant difference in your skateboarding experience. Our top 10 picks for the best skateboard bolts include a variety of options in terms of material, length, and design. From classic Phillips head bolts to unique hexagonal shapes, there is something for every skateboarder. Remember to choose the appropriate length and thread count for your skateboard, and always prioritize quality over price. With the right skateboard bolts, you can ensure a secure and reliable ride every time.