Skateboard Trucks
What Are Skateboard Trucks?
Your deck's T-shaped metal parts, known as skateboard trucks, are responsible for converting your movement into the board's movement. They serve as the axles connecting the deck to the wheels. Selecting the appropriate trucks is vital because they significantly influence your performance on the skateboard.
Skate trucks comprise several smaller components, including the baseplate, hanger, axle, kingpin, and bushings, each serving a distinct purpose. The hanger and axle widths of trucks are typically listed in inches and vary. It is essential to note that truck sizes are not uniform and differ across brands.
Which Skateboard Trucks Should I Choose?
Your trucks should correlate with the size of your board and your riding style. Typically, the truck's axle width should align with the deck's width; otherwise, you may encounter difficulties while skating. Our Skateboard Truck Size Guide offers assistance in selecting the correct size trucks for your deck.
If you are inclined towards technical street skating, consider low skateboard trucks that enhance stability and simplify popping the board. High skateboard trucks, with their increased distance from the ground, are ideal for high-speed bowl skating or performing deep turns. Mid-level trucks provide a balanced option suitable for both street and park skateboarding.
It is also important to consider the weight of the trucks. Lightweight skateboard trucks are ideal for tricks and jumps, while heavier trucks are generally preferred for grinding. Aluminium and titanium trucks tend to be lighter, whereas Chromoly steel trucks, though heavier, are more durable.
For further details on the features of skateboard trucks, you can refer to our extensive Skateboard Trucks Guide.
Skateboard Trucks vs. Longboard Trucks
One primary distinction between skateboard and longboard trucks lies in the baseplate and kingpin design. Traditional skateboard trucks are most commonly utilised in skateboarding, whereas reverse kingpin trucks prevail in longboarding. In reverse kingpin trucks, the kingpin screw faces outward from the board; conversely, in standard trucks, it faces inward. Moreover, reverse kingpin trucks tend to be wider, taller, and more agile, ideal for swift, surf-like rides and deep carves.
To explore reverse kingpin trucks, visit our Longboard Trucks Category.