If you’re Christmas shopping for that skateboarder on your list, you probably expected to pick out wheels and a deck design, but what about those metal T-shaped pieces on the underside of the skateboard? Those are skateboard trucks, and choosing the right set is key because they keep your wheels and bearings securely attached to the deck. Trucks are actually composed of several different parts: axles, hangers, kingpins and bushings. Each one of these parts affects your skateboard’s performance.
Axle: Long pin that runs through the hanger and attaches to the wheels
Hanger: Large triangular metal piece that runs through the axle and supports it
Kingpin: Bolt that fits inside the bushings and holds the skate truck parts together
Bushings: Soft urethane rings fitted around the kingpin to allow the board to turn
Type and size of trucks chosen impact your stability and what tricks you’re able to pull off on your skateboard. Do you want to do easy turns? Go for the softer bushings. For stiff turning, choose harder bushings.
Truck Size
Truck size is measured by axle width or hanger width. You should choose a truck axle that is roughly the same width as your skateboard deck, just over or under ¼ of an inch the width of the board. Visit our help guide to view a recommended sizing chart for truck size based on deck size.
Truck Profile
Truck profile is the distance between the hanger and the bottom of the skate deck. Mid-sized trucks are most widely chosen by skateboarders. Low-sized trucks are designed for small wheels, and provide extra stability for certain skate moves. High-sized trucks are ideal for large wheels, and are made for carving and cruising streets, working well with longboards or cruisers.
Still need help finding the right size trucks? Head over to our in-depth buying guide dedicated to skateboard trucks.
Trucks also require regular maintenance in order to keep your skateboard firing on all cylinders. Visit our help guide for directions on tightening your kingpin, replacing a broken kingpin and replacing bushings.