Skateboarding enthusiasts know that the performance of their board depends on the quality of the trucks and wheels. A suitable combination of the best skateboard trucks and wheels can elevate a skateboarder’s experience to the next level, providing smoothness, stability, and durability. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the top 13 best skateboard trucks and wheels to guide you in finding the perfect one for your needs. So, whether you’re a beginner or a pro looking to upgrade your skateboard, read on for our reviews and buying guide of the best skateboard trucks and wheels available in the market.
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Best Skateboard Trucks And Wheels
Overview of Skateboard Trucks And Wheels
Skateboard trucks and wheels are two of the most important components of a skateboard. They are responsible for providing the rider with the ability to turn, balance and move around on the board. The trucks are the metal components that attach the wheels to the board. They allow the rider to turn the board by angling themselves to one side or the other. The wheels, on the other hand, come in various sizes, shapes, and hardness levels. Their diameters vary, and they range from soft, smooth wheels for cruising to hard, rough wheels for street skating. There is a range of wheels to fit any rider’s style and terrain preference.
Generally, skateboard trucks consist of several parts, including the baseplate, kingpin, hanger, and bushings. The baseplate attaches to the deck, and the hanger holds the axle and wheels. The kingpin holds everything together and allows the rider to adjust the tightness of the trucks. The bushings cushion the ride and make it easier to turn. Skateboard wheels are constructed using polyurethane, a durable material that can withstand the roughness of pavement. The different hardness levels impact the rider’s grip and control, with softer wheels providing more grip and harder wheels offering smoother slides. Overall, skateboard trucks and wheels are vital to a skateboarder’s performance and should be selected to match the rider’s preferences.
Reasons for Buying Skateboard Trucks And Wheels
Skateboarding is an exciting and highly popular sport that requires the right gear to ensure top performance. Two essential components of any skateboard are the trucks and wheels. If you’re a beginner or looking to upgrade your equipment, here are some key reasons why you should consider buying high-quality skateboard trucks and wheels.
To customize the skateboard’s performance and style
Skateboard trucks and wheels play a crucial role in determining the performance and style of a skateboard. The trucks are located underneath the skateboard, connecting the wheels and the deck. They allow the skater to turn and maneuver the skateboard. Trucks also contribute to the stability of the skateboard and influence the ease of performing tricks.
In addition, choosing the right wheels can enhance the skateboard’s performance and style. From the size and shape to the hardness and texture, wheels can affect the speed, control, and grip of the skateboard. Selecting the appropriate combination of trucks and wheels based on personal preferences and intended use can make a significant difference in the skateboarding experience. Therefore, buying skateboard trucks and wheels enables skateboarders to customize their ride according to their unique preferences and needs.
To replace old or damaged parts
Skateboard trucks and wheels are essential components that connect the board to the wheels. The trucks help in turning and keeping the skateboard balanced, while the wheels make the ride smooth and comfortable. Over time, these parts can wear out due to constant use and exposure to the elements.
If the skateboard trucks and wheels are old or damaged, they can pose a safety risk to the rider. For instance, worn-out wheels may not grip the ground properly, leading to slips and falls. Similarly, damaged trucks can cause instability and wobbling, which can make it difficult to control the board. Therefore, it’s important to replace these parts whenever necessary, to ensure a safe and enjoyable skateboarding experience.
To improve stability and maneuverability
Skateboard trucks and wheels are crucial components of a skateboard. They are responsible for ensuring stability and maneuverability while skating. The wheels are responsible for providing a smooth ride while also offering grip. They come in various sizes and durometers, and choosing the right set of wheels depends on personal preference and the kind of skating you want to do.
On the other hand, trucks connect the wheels to the deck and enable the skateboard to turn. They comprise of a baseplate, a hanger, and a kingpin. They come in various sizes, and choosing the right size depends on the width of your deck. A good set of trucks can significantly improve your stability and maneuverability while skating, allowing you to perform tricks and take turns with greater ease and control. Therefore, if you want to improve your skating experience, investing in a good set of trucks and wheels is a must.
To suit different types of riding, such as cruising or tricks
Skateboarding is a versatile activity that can be enjoyed in different ways depending on the rider’s style. Some skateboarders prefer cruising, where they simply ride around on their board and enjoy the scenery. Others prefer doing tricks and maneuvers, where they use the skateboard to perform flips, grinds, and other stunts. To accommodate these different styles, skateboard trucks and wheels come in different sizes and shapes.
For cruising, skateboarders typically want trucks that are wider and more stable, as well as larger wheels that can roll over cracks and bumps more easily. This helps create a smooth ride that’s perfect for exploring the city or commuting to work or school. On the other hand, for tricks and stunts, skateboarders usually want trucks that are narrower and more responsive, as well as smaller wheels that provide more control and grip on the board. This allows them to perform more technical maneuvers that require precision and balance. By choosing the right skateboard trucks and wheels for their style of riding, skateboarders can enjoy a customized experience that suits their needs and preferences.
Buying Guides
When it comes to skateboarding, the type of trucks and wheels you use can make a significant difference in the performance and stability of your board. In this section, we will explore some vital factors to keep in mind when picking the best skateboard trucks and wheels for you.
Size
Size is an important factor to consider when buying skateboard trucks and wheels. Choosing the right size helps optimize your skateboarding experience, making it easier to maneuver and control your skateboard.
In terms of skateboard trucks, the width of your trucks should match the width of your deck. If your trucks are too narrow or too wide, you may experience instability and difficulty in making turns. Additionally, the height of your trucks will affect the stability of the board, with lower trucks providing better stability at higher speeds.
As for wheels, the size and durometer (hardness) will determine the speed, grip, and smoothness of your ride. Large wheels generally provide higher speeds and smoother rides, while smaller wheels offer better control and maneuverability. The durometer of your wheels should also match your style of skating, with softer wheels providing a better grip for cruising and hard wheels for tricks and technical riding.
Overall, by considering the size of your trucks and wheels, you can ensure a safer and more enjoyable skateboarding experience that caters to your personal style and preferences.
Material
When it comes to skateboard trucks and wheels, the material they are made of can have a significant impact on their overall performance. For example, trucks made of aluminum are lightweight and provide a smooth ride, making them ideal for cruising and carving. On the other hand, trucks made of titanium are more durable and can handle more intense skateboarding techniques such as grinding and jumping.
Wheels also vary in material, with options such as polyurethane, rubber, and plastic. The material of the wheels can affect their grip, speed, and durability. So, it’s important to consider what type of skating you will be doing, as well as your personal preferences when choosing the material for your skateboard trucks and wheels. Ultimately, the right material can enhance your overall skateboarding experience and improve performance.
Brand reputation
Brand reputation is an essential factor to consider before purchasing skateboard trucks and wheels because it determines the quality of the product. A well-known brand with a good reputation is more likely to offer high-quality trucks and wheels that are durable and long-lasting. These brands invest in research and development to improve their products and ensure customer satisfaction, which helps build their brand reputation over time.
Additionally, buying from a reputable brand offers a level of trust and peace of mind. You can be confident that you are investing your money in a product that is tried and tested by many users over time, and it meets the safety standards of the industry. It is also easier to resell a product from a reputable brand should you decide to upgrade or change your setup, which offers added value to your investment. Overall, considering brand reputation is crucial for ensuring that you get the best quality skateboard trucks and wheels that will offer optimal performance, durability, and safety.
Riding style
The riding style is a crucial factor that should be considered before buying skateboard trucks and wheels because different skateboarding disciplines require different features. For instance, if you are into street skating, you need trucks with a lower profile and harder wheels since they offer better stability, control and the ability to pop tricks. On the other hand, if you are into cruising or longboarding, you need larger wheels and higher trucks that can smoothly glide over different types of terrains.
Choosing the right skateboard trucks and wheels depending on your riding style can also enhance your overall skating experience. It can help you execute tricks more effectively, ride smoother, and land soft and comfortable landings. By taking the time to consider your riding style, you will be able to customize your skateboard accordingly and get the most out of your skateboarding journey.
Weight capacity
Weight capacity is an important factor to consider when buying skateboard trucks and wheels because it affects the overall performance and safety of your skateboard. Trucks and wheels that are not designed to handle your weight can result in poor stability, reduced speed, and increased chances of accidents. For example, if you are a heavy rider, you would need trucks and wheels with a higher weight capacity to support your weight and provide the necessary stability and control during your rides. Similarly, if you plan to use your skateboard for tricks and stunts, you would need trucks and wheels that can handle the impact and pressure of your maneuvers.
In addition, weight capacity also influences the durability and lifespan of your skateboard components. If you constantly ride with overloaded trucks and wheels, it can lead to faster wear and tear, resulting in needing to replace them sooner or more frequently. By choosing the appropriate weight capacity for your skateboard trucks and wheels, you can ensure that they perform optimally and last longer. Therefore, it is crucial to consider weight capacity before buying skateboard trucks and wheels.
Compatibility with deck
For skateboarders, the compatibility of trucks and wheels is important as it affects the overall performance and handling of the skateboard. The width and height of the trucks, as well as the size and shape of the wheels, determine how well the board turns, how responsive it is, and how stable it is at high speeds. Choosing the wrong size or shape can result in difficulty maneuvering, wheel bite (where the wheel hits the deck), and a less-than-optimal ride. Therefore, it is important to consider the compatibility of trucks and wheels with the deck before purchasing to ensure smooth and safe skating experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different types of skateboard trucks and their specific features?
Skateboard trucks are the metal parts that sit under the deck and secure the wheels. There are two types of trucks: standard and reverse kingpin.
Standard trucks are symmetric and used mainly for street skating. They have a hanger that is held to the baseplate by a kingpin. They are narrow, so they can turn easily, and have a lower center of gravity, making them more stable for tricks. Some popular brands of standard trucks include Independent, Thunder, and Venture.
Reverse kingpin trucks, on the other hand, have a longer hanger and a higher kingpin angle, making them more stable at high speeds. They are mainly used for cruising, downhill, and longboarding. The kingpin is placed in the opposite direction compared to standard trucks, giving them more rebound. Popular brands of reverse kingpin trucks include Paris, Caliber, and Gullwing.
How do I choose the right size of skateboard wheels for my riding style?
Choosing the right size of skateboard wheels depends on your riding style and skating location. If you skate street or parks, smaller and harder wheels in the range of 50-54mm with a durometer rating of 97-101a are ideal. These wheels are light and have faster acceleration, providing more control and responsiveness on smoother surfaces and technical tricks. For cruising, commuting and transportation, larger and softer wheels in the range of 54-60mm with a durometer rating of 78-87a are suitable. These wheels are more stable, provide a smoother ride over uneven surfaces and absorb vibrations for a comfortable ride.
The size of skateboard wheels also depends on your weight and height. If you are tall and heavy, larger and harder wheels are recommended for better balance and control. If you are shorter and lighter, smaller and softer wheels are suitable for ease of maneuverability. It’s essential to consider the recommended wheel size for the skateboard deck you have as there are different wheel wells and clearance between the deck to prevent wheel bite. Ultimately, choosing the right size of skateboard wheels depends on your personal preferences and the type of skating you do.
What is the durometer rating for skateboard wheels and how does it affect my ride?
Yes, you can use an entry-level downhill mountain bike for other types of mountain biking such as cross-country or all-mountain. However, it may not be the most efficient or comfortable option as downhill bikes tend to be heavier and have more suspension than other types of mountain bikes. Additionally, the position and frame geometry of a downhill bike may not be optimized for other types of riding, making it more difficult to climb hills or navigate technical terrain.
It’s important to consider your riding style and the type of trails you’ll be riding before choosing a bike. If you plan on doing a variety of mountain biking, you may want to consider a more versatile bike that is designed for cross-country or all-mountain riding. However, if downhill is your primary focus, then an entry-level downhill mountain bike may be a great option for you.
Can I mix and match brands of skateboard trucks and wheels?
Verdict
When it comes to finding the best skateboard trucks and wheels, it’s important to consider a variety of factors, including your skating style, personal preferences, and budget. We hope our list of the top 13 best skateboard trucks and wheels, along with our buying guide, has provided you with the knowledge and insight you need to make an informed decision. With high-quality trucks and wheels, you’ll have a smoother, more enjoyable ride and be able to perform tricks with greater ease and control. Make sure to choose the best skateboard trucks and wheels for your needs and get ready to experience the ultimate skating experience.