Truck Buying Guide
How to choose skateboard trucks
The most important thing is matching the truck axle width to your skateboard deck. After that, choose the truck height and bushings that best suit your wheels, weight and riding style.
Match your trucks to your deck
Trucks that are too narrow can make the board feel less stable. Trucks that are too wide may cause the wheels to stick out beyond the deck. A small difference is usually manageable, but the axle ends should ideally sit close to the deck edges.
| Deck width | Suggested axle width | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| 7.5–7.875″ | Approximately 7.6–8.0″ | Narrow technical street setup |
| 8.0–8.25″ | Approximately 8.0–8.25″ | Common all-round setup |
| 8.25–8.5″ | Approximately 8.25–8.5″ | Street, park and transition |
| 8.5–9.0″ | Approximately 8.5–9.0″ | Bowl, ramp and cruiser setup |
| 9.0″ and wider | 9.0″ or wider | Wide shaped decks and cruisers |
Truck size numbers are not universal. A “144” from one brand may not match the same axle width as another brand. Always check the actual axle-width measurement shown on the product page.
Choose your truck height
Quick and responsive
Lower trucks keep the deck closer to the ground and can feel stable during technical street skating. They work best with smaller wheels and may increase the chance of wheel bite with larger wheels.
Balanced all-round choice
Mid-height trucks provide a useful balance of stability, turning clearance and pop. They are a dependable option for street, park and everyday skating.
More turn and clearance
Higher trucks provide more space between the wheels and deck. They suit larger wheels, deeper turns, transition skating and cruising, although they raise the board slightly from the ground.
Low, mid and high measurements vary between manufacturers. Use the manufacturer’s specifications when comparing different brands.
Truck height and wheel size
| Truck height | Typical wheel size | Setup advice |
|---|---|---|
| Low | Approximately 50–53 mm | Good for technical street skating and smaller wheels |
| Mid | Approximately 52–56 mm | Versatile choice for street and skateparks |
| High | Approximately 54–60 mm | More clearance for transition, cruising and larger wheels |
These are general guidelines. Loose trucks, soft bushings and deep turns may require extra wheel clearance even when using smaller wheels.
Do you need riser pads?
Without risers
A standard street setup with small or medium wheels will not normally need riser pads. Keeping the trucks directly against the deck also keeps the board lower.
With risers
Riser pads create extra space between the wheels and deck. Consider them when using larger wheels, loose trucks or a cruiser setup that is likely to turn deeply.
Understanding truck bushings
Bushings are the urethane cushions around the kingpin. They control how easily the trucks lean and turn. Rider weight, skating style and personal preference all affect the best hardness.
Soft bushings
Easier to lean and turn. Often preferred by lighter riders or anyone who wants a loose, surf-inspired feel.
Medium bushings
A balanced starting point for most skaters, offering predictable turning without feeling excessively soft or restrictive.
Hard bushings
Provide greater resistance and stability. Often suited to heavier riders, high-speed skating or skaters who prefer tighter trucks.
Traditional or reverse kingpin?
Traditional kingpin
The standard choice for street skateboards, skateparks, bowls and most cruisers. Traditional kingpin trucks are compact and designed for tricks, grinds and everyday skateboarding.
Reverse kingpin
Commonly used on longboards and larger cruisers. They provide a different turning feel and are generally better suited to carving, cruising and downhill setups than technical street tricks.
Parts of a skateboard truck
- Axle: The metal shaft that runs through the hanger and holds the wheels.
- Hanger: The main T-shaped part of the truck used for grinds.
- Baseplate: The flat section that bolts to the skateboard deck.
- Kingpin: The large bolt that holds the truck assembly and bushings together.
- Bushings: Urethane cushions that control turning resistance.
- Pivot cup: The small cup in the baseplate that supports the hanger pivot.
Truck buying checklist
- Check the exact width of your skateboard deck.
- Choose a truck axle width that sits close to the deck edges.
- Select low, mid or high trucks based on your wheel size and riding style.
- Consider riser pads if you use large wheels or ride loose trucks.
- Choose bushing hardness based on your weight and preferred turning feel.
- Check whether the product is sold as a pair or as a single truck.
Skateboard truck FAQs
What size trucks do I need for an 8-inch deck?
Choose trucks with an axle width close to 8 inches. The exact model number varies between brands, so check the axle-width measurement rather than relying only on the truck’s size name.
What size trucks do I need for an 8.25-inch deck?
Trucks with an axle width of approximately 8.25 inches are the ideal starting point. A small difference on either side is normally acceptable.
Are skateboard trucks sold in pairs?
Many skateboard trucks are sold as a pair, but some retailers and manufacturers sell them individually. Always check the product description before ordering.
Do trucks come with mounting hardware?
Mounting bolts are often sold separately. Trucks normally include their axles, kingpins, bushings and axle nuts, but you should check the individual product listing.
How tight should my trucks be?
Tightness is personal. Beginners often prefer a stable medium setting. Adjust the kingpin nut gradually and avoid overtightening it so far that the bushings become crushed or damaged.
What is wheel bite?
Wheel bite happens when a wheel touches the underside of the deck during a turn, potentially stopping the wheel suddenly. Riser pads, smaller wheels, harder bushings or slightly tighter trucks can help.
When should skateboard trucks be replaced?
Replace trucks when the axle is badly bent, the hanger is cracked, the kingpin cannot be secured or the baseplate is damaged. Worn bushings, pivot cups, nuts and washers can usually be replaced separately.