Skateboarding is a popular activity that requires high-quality equipment for a smooth and enjoyable experience. One of the essential components of a skateboard is the bushings, which provide cushioning and support between the trucks and the deck. However, choosing the right skateboard bushings can be a daunting task, especially for beginners.
That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 best hard skateboard bushings in this review and buying guide. Whether you’re a pro skater or a beginner, these bushings will provide the stability and control you need to perform tricks and ride confidently. So, let’s dive into the world of skateboard bushings and find the best ones for your needs!
Get ready for our reviews on the best hard skateboard bushings, but first, here are some related Amazon products to check out:
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Best Hard Skateboard Bushings
Everything you Need to Know About Hard Skateboard Bushings
Hard skateboard bushings are an essential component of a skateboard’s overall performance. They are responsible for providing stability to the board and allowing the rider to control it better. They come in different durometers, which refers to the amount of pressure required to compress or deform the bushing material. Hard bushings typically have a higher durometer rating, indicating that they are firmer and more resistant to compression.
Hard skateboard bushings are perfect for riders who prefer a more stable and solid ride. They are ideal for riders who engage in high-speed riding, sliding, and carving. Hard bushings provide less turn and more stability, making them a better choice for riders who want to prevent wheel bite or keep their trucks from wobbling at high speeds. However, hard bushings are not suitable for beginners as they require more pressure to turn the board.
What Makes Purchasing Hard Skateboard Bushings Essential?
There are a variety of reasons why someone might consider purchasing hard skateboard bushings. Whether it’s a desire for greater stability or the need for improved responsiveness, there are many benefits to using these types of bushings on your skateboard. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key advantages that come with upgrading to harder bushings.
Provide stability
Hard skateboard bushings can provide additional stability to the skateboard while riding. The bushings, which are located on the trucks of the skateboard, act as a cushion between the deck and the wheels. When the rider leans into a turn, the bushings compress to absorb the weight and force generated. However, if the bushings are too soft, the board may wobble or feel unstable, which can lead to accidents.
By installing harder skateboard bushings, the board becomes less flexible and more stable. This means that the board will have less inclination to tilt, and the rider will be able to enjoy a smoother ride without facing the risk of their board slipping out from under them. Additionally, the rider can achieve greater control over their skateboard, as a result of decreased rocking and a more firm response from the board. Overall, choosing the right level of hardness for skateboard bushings is essential to ensure greater stability, making for a safe, smooth and enjoyable riding experience.
Improve turn response
Skateboarding is all about control and agility, and one of the essential components that determine the skateboard’s response to turns is the bushings. Skateboard bushings are the rubber-like components that sit inside the trucks and allow the board to turn smoothly. If the skateboard bushings become worn out or lose their flexibility, it can be challenging to turn and control the board effectively. This is where hard skateboard bushings come in handy.
Hard skateboard bushings are stiffer than soft ones, which makes them more responsive to turns. When you turn your skateboard, the harder bushings will push back against the weight shift, allowing for sharper and quicker turns. This increased response can be particularly useful for experienced skateboarders who want to advance their skills and improve their performance. Ultimately, hard skateboard bushings can provide the rider with greater control and precision in their turns, making their skating experience more enjoyable.
Increase board control
Hard skateboard bushings can significantly enhance board control, especially for skaters who prefer a tight turning radius. Bushings are the rubbery components within the skateboard trucks that enable the board to turn. When a rider leans into a turn, the bushings compress and allow the trucks to pivot from side to side.
Harder bushings are less compressible and provide less give, resulting in a tighter turning radius. This means the rider can turn and carve more sharply and precisely, which is especially useful for trick and ramp skating. Additionally, harder bushings offer more stability and control at high speeds, preventing the board from wobbling or feeling sloppily loose. In conclusion, Hard Skateboard Bushings are an essential component for board control, enabling riders to execute their tricks with more precision and stability.
Support heavier riders
Skateboard bushings are essential components of the skateboard that are positioned between the truck and the deck. They help in cushioning the board and absorbing shocks when riding over rough grounds or performing tricks. However, the size and hardness of the bushing can affect the performance of the skateboard. For instance, a soft bushing is ideal for lighter riders as it offers greater turning ability, but it lacks stability, making it unsuitable for heavier riders.
When heavier riders use softer bushings, it compresses too much, and the truck becomes loose, reducing the turning ability and stability of the skateboard. This problem can be dangerous and cause the rider to lose balance and fall, leading to injuries. As a result, heavier riders would need to use hard skateboard bushings that can handle their weight, offer better stability, and maintain the turning ability of the skateboard. By using hard bushings, the skateboard becomes more stable and controllable for the rider, which makes it less risky to perform various skateboard tricks. In summary, buying hard skateboard bushings is necessary for heavier riders to ensure their safety and improve their skateboarding experience.
Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best Hard Skateboard Bushings?
Before we dive into the factors that influence the best hard skateboard bushings, it is important to understand their role in the overall performance of a skateboard.
Durometer
Durometer is a measure of the hardness of materials, including skateboard bushings. The higher the durometer rating, the harder the bushing will be. Choosing the right durometer for your skateboard bushings is crucial as it affects the overall stability, turnability, and control of your skateboard. If you are a heavier or more aggressive skater, you might want to go for a higher durometer rating for better stability and support. However, if you are into relaxed cruising or carving, you might want a softer durometer rating that allows better turning and flexibility.
Additionally, the durometer rating of your skateboard bushings can also depend on the type of terrain you prefer to ride on. If you love riding on smooth and flat surfaces, a harder durometer rating might be ideal. However, if you prefer rough and uneven terrain like parks and ramps, you might want to go for a softer durometer rating that allows smooth landings and better absorption of shocks. Overall, considering the durometer rating before buying skateboard bushings is critical as it can make a significant difference in the overall performance and feel of your skateboard.
Shape
The shape of hard skateboard bushings is important to consider before buying because it determines how the board will turn and respond to your movements. Most skateboard bushings are typically cone or barrel shaped. Cone-shaped bushings give a more responsive, carvy feeling whereas barrel-shaped bushings give a more stable, grounded feeling. Depending on your personal preference and skating style, one shape may work better for you than the other.
Additionally, the shape of the bushings needs to fit the shape of your trucks. If you have a truck with a more angled baseplate, like a Randal or Paris truck, then cone shaped bushings will work well. If you have a truck with a flat baseplate, like a Caliber or Independent truck, then barrel shaped bushings will work well. Properly matching the shape of the bushings to the shape of the trucks will ensure a comfortable and responsive ride.
Material
Material is a critical consideration when buying hard skateboard bushings because it directly affects the performance of your skateboard. First and foremost, it determines the level of resistance or rebound that your bushings will provide. Different materials will provide varying levels of resistance and rebound, which will influence how your board reacts to your movements. Additionally, the durability and longevity of your bushings will largely depend on the material that they are made of. Some materials can withstand more wear and tear than others, so it is important to choose a material that will hold up to your style of riding. Ultimately, selecting the right material for your hard skateboard bushings can make a significant difference in your overall skateboarding experience.
Compatibility
Compatibility is an important factor to consider before buying hard skateboard bushings. Skateboard bushings come in different shapes and sizes, and not all bushings are compatible with all skateboard trucks. Compatibility ensures that the bushings fit well into the skateboard trucks, reducing wobbling and enhancing stability.
Using incompatible bushings can lead to a poor riding experience and even cause accidents. It is important to check the size and shape of your skateboard trucks before buying bushings to ensure that they fit perfectly. By doing so, you can ensure a smooth and safe ride, and prevent unnecessary wear and tear of your skateboard components.
Brand reputation
Brand reputation is an important factor to consider before buying hard skateboard bushings. A reputable brand ensures that the product is made of high-quality materials and adheres to strict manufacturing standards. This means that the bushings will be durable and reliable, providing a consistent and responsive ride. Additionally, a well-known brand often has a loyal following and positive reviews from other skaters, which can help you choose the best bushings for your specific needs.
By choosing a reputable brand, you can also ensure that you are getting a product backed by excellent customer service and support. The brand will often have a warranty or return policy in place, should any issues arise. Ultimately, considering brand reputation before purchasing hard skateboard bushings can save you time, money, and frustration in the long run, as you will be investing in a product that is trusted and reliable.
Personal riding style/preferences
Personal riding style/preferences should be considered before buying hard skateboard bushings because they play a crucial role in the type of bushings needed for the skateboard. Hard bushings provide stability and are ideal for riders who want to perform tricks like flips and grinds. However, if a rider prefers a more fluid and smooth ride, they may need to opt for softer bushings. Additionally, the weight and size of the rider can also influence the choice of bushings. Therefore, it is important to consider personal preferences when selecting bushings to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable ride.
FAQs
What are skateboard bushings?
Skateboard bushings are small, cylindrical pieces of rubber or urethane that are placed inside the kingpin of a skateboard truck. They act as a cushion between the truck and the deck, allowing for smoother turns and maneuverability. The bushings compress and flex as the rider leans into a turn, providing a responsive and controlled ride. Bushings come in different shapes, sizes, and durometers (hardness) to suit a rider’s preference and riding style. They are an important component of a skateboard and can greatly affect how the board feels and performs.
Why are hard skateboard bushings preferred by some skaters?
Hard skateboard bushings are preferred by some skaters because they provide a more stable and responsive ride. When performing tricks or maneuvers, the skateboard needs to be able to turn and pivot quickly and accurately. Hard bushings are less flexible and therefore provide better precision in turning and maneuvering. They also tend to offer more resistance, which can be helpful for skaters looking to maintain balance and control. Overall, hard bushings are a good choice for experienced skaters who are looking for a more precise and responsive ride.
Additionally, hard skateboard bushings are more durable than softer ones. They can withstand more wear and tear, which means they do not need to be replaced as often. For skaters who skate frequently or aggressively, this can be a significant advantage. Hard bushings are also less likely to compress or warp over time, which can negatively impact performance. Skaters who prioritize durability and longevity may prefer hard bushings over softer ones.
How do I know which hardness of bushings is right for me?
Yes, you will need special pedals for cleats on your mountain bike. Cleats are small metal or plastic devices that attach to the bottom of your cycling shoes and allow you to clip into compatible pedals. The design of cleats and pedals varies depending on the type of cycling you plan to do, so it’s important to choose pedals that are specific to mountain biking.
Mountain biking pedals are designed to be durable and provide a secure grip on your shoes, which is important when riding over rough terrain. They also typically have a wider platform than road cycling pedals, which provides more stability for technical off-road riding. Look for pedals that are compatible with your specific cleat system, such as Shimano SPD or Crankbrothers, and consider the type of riding you plan to do when choosing the right pedals for your mountain bike.
Can I use hard skateboard bushings on all types of skateboards?
Conclusion
After an exhaustive analysis of the top hard skateboard bushings available in the market, it is safe to say that each product has its own set of unique features that cater to individual preferences. However, in our opinion, the Independent Genuine Parts Standard Cylinder Hard Skateboard Bushings stand out as the best hard skateboard bushings.
These bushings are designed to fit perfectly with Independent trucks and provide an unparalleled level of stability and control. Their durability and outstanding performance make them a great investment for any skateboarder. So, if you’re looking to upgrade your skateboard’s bushings, we highly recommend giving these a try.