Top 7 Best Skateboard Trucks 2024: Unfiltered Tested Review

What are skateboard trucks? Well, they are such vital accessories to the skaters that without the proper ones, skating will have no meaning. These trucks are not nonsensical additional gadgets, let us remind you. They are the middle-man between the wheels and the bearings.

That being said, the best skateboard trucks will help you to control the speed and steadiness as you ride. They are the reason skateboarding turns out safer as well as coping well with several tricks up your sleeve.

Now, choosing the trucks for your deck is all about personal preference. It should also suit the deck size. But in the end, it all depends on your favoritism.

So how have we selected these brands and products? We have researched, purchased, tested, of course, and found out what the majority of the trucks the users have loved the most.

Shall we have a look at them? You never know what you will come to like!

7 Best Skateboard Truck Reviews

The selected numbers of best trucks skateboard have one thing in common; they all have benefitted the skateboarders one way or another. Let us find out which of these are fit to impress you.

01. Independent Stage 11 Best Standard Skateboard truck

Our first Independent trucks set from Stage 11 are the most recognized unit that offers iconic details. They excel in both durability and lightweight, thanks to the aluminum make.

So what does that mean in the skating world?

A lot of trusts, actually. It is not easy to quickly depend on the trucks you are unfamiliar with because the years of using a different brand kind of makes you question everything else.

However, if you find such a reliable brand but still hesitate, we recommend looking at this set of 139mm trucks. These are built to gain your trust. 

They provide the supreme grinding and kingpin clearance against all odds. To give you a fair image, turning on the rough ground will no longer require you to overstress. You get to keep the effortless flexibility, while the trucks carry out the balancing technique smoothly.

Moreover, the fact that the components are lightweight saves a lot of pain from performing tricks with heavy trucks. Hence, you will be capable of executing multiple tricks. The board will reach faster, which makes improvements to the skills more enjoyable. 

Pros

• Lightweight and durable
• Sturdy build
• Best for skateboarding
• Most suitable for grinding and even flipping
• Offers flexibility and balance

Cons

• The first few trials might create noise

02. Havoc 5.0 Best Skateboard Truck for Beginners

We say this model is most suitable for beginners or casual riders who are just starting out. However, do you not wish to spend too much, or tight on budget?

Then this is one of the best cheap skateboard trucks; to begin with. But does a low price mean poor quality? In the case of Havoc 5.0, it is quite the opposite.

This one will perform incredibly as long as the decks are sized from 5.25”-8.1”. As a result, mid-level profile trucks are a great investment for variable age groups.

Their size, unfortunately, cannot be considered for longboards. They are, on the other hand, lightweight, if that is what you seek. 

The high-grade materials used to make this gadget packs firm agility, durability, and stability despite the lightweight body. All of which are basic must-have features in a skateboard truck. 

And when it comes to performance, it holds its ground with smooth and nimble control. We should remind you that this truck is not so ideal for regular grinds. 

Pros

• Great performance
• Suitable for casual riders or beginners
• Cost-effective
• Comes in a range of colors
• Aluminum alloy for lightweight functions
• Allows neutral balance and flex 
• Withstands bumps and abuses extensively 

Cons

• Not opt for frequent grinding
• Possibility of occasional wheel bite

See also: Top 7 Best Skateboard Bearings 2024: Unleash Your Speed

03. Gullwing Sidewinder II Best Curving Skateboard Truck

This unit is built to rule the tight turns whenever it can. The construction of the trucks releases excellent tunings and steadiness. Gullwing Sidewinder II can easily get around the sharp sidewalk turns or 180 in the parking slot.

Whether you are on flat ground or going downhill, the trucks will make sure to create accurate turns when engaged. This is why the deck responds outstandingly no matter the speed limit. 

These curving trucks are the absolute favorite to many users, especially if you pair them up with the Sector 9 Sidewinder Series longboard decks. 

What we found most satisfying is the feature of a double kingpin setup. It clearly allows the truck to steer farther than regular trucks. They tighten the turning radius, all the while delivering twice the amount of rebound you apply in the carves and pumps. In short, the skateboarders will be able to generate their own momentum.

These trucks are definitely the closest thing to sidewalk surfing that can maneuver the tightest lines known to experienced users. Not to mention, if they are not set up, on an appropriately shaped deck, the trucks will perform poorly and cause wheel bite.

Pros

• On-time turns 
• Well-built
• Durable construction
• Offers smooth ride
• Adjustments are perfect
• Great looking 
• Steering performances are farther than other trucks

Cons

• Wheelbase needs to be raised by about 4”
• Best for freestyle deck only

04. Cal 7 Best All-rounder Truck for Small Skateboard

This is the third and final package by the Cal 7 that is compatible with 7.5-8” decks. Yes, they are basically the all-rounder of small skateboards.

The 129mm trucks with 99A PU wheels and ABEC 7 bearings together make it an ideal choice for skatepark skating and some simple tricks.

However, the setup is not that great for street skating. On the other hand, you will love the lightweight yet powerful quality the trucks boast with a robust kingpin to hold all the components.

Now whether you wish to have it for yourself or present it to someone who is into skateboarding, the enhanced bearings will let the user control turns and speeds much better. The set is pretty basic to install; in fact, even a kid can sort out the setup with much interest, under a parent’s supervision, that is. 

In a way, Cal 7 129mm set may not be compatible with some decks, but it certainly keeps the promise of solid value. Besides, the overall product can be acquired within a budget, which is fantastic for those wanting a replacement. 

Pros

• Lightweight 
• Highly functional 
• Includes hardware
• Cost-efficient
• Best for rookies and occasional trick-masters
• Comes with riser pads
• Great for sketchy terrain 
• Multiple color options to choose from

Cons

• Not fit to use on the street

05. Core Best Aluminum Alloy Skateboard Truck

The aluminum alloy trucks of this brand have become popular pretty fast over recent years. It is thanks to their ability to grind clearance and lightweight aspects. Also, they are good for purchasing within the budget.

Nevertheless, these cannot replace high-grade quality ones. As much as we would love to praise the product with the highest votes, we cannot. There are a few drawbacks, from which we could not turn blind eyes.

They seem absolutely solid in construction, but the baseplate is not as thick as other similar units. There had been complications with bushings too. 

Thus, you might face a slight wheel bite. Most importantly, they are not durable if you are looking for something that will serve you during regular tricks. They will hold up just fine for rides only. 

So we think these Core Skateboard trucks were made by keeping beginners or rookies in mind. The trucks will work wonders for simple cruising or normal skating, though. They will also work as an emergency backup plan when you are tight on bucks.

Pros

• Versatile operations
• Lightweight
• Good performance 
• Mountable on any kind of deck
• Reliable quality
• Most suitable for regular skating

Cons

• Not as durable as claimed
• Difficulty in grinding and other tricks

06. CCS Best Grinding Skateboard Truck

Now this one is another trusted brand that has been delivering promising quality and performance via their skateboard trucks. The CCS trucks are designed for versatility, thus coming in different scales. But we will pay our attention to 139mm only, for now.

It has solid compatibility with a mid-range deck that measures 8.4”-8.6”. As far as mid-profile trucks go, the CCS skateboard trucks are known to be the ideal ones.

The reason is their solid construction of aluminum that associates with a steel baseplate. Of course, things will never be the same if the kingpin does not follow in with high-grade, non-slipping quality. 

So the overall structure might not suffice for grinding, but the trucks will do an incredible job from cruising and curving to other tricks at skate parks, ramps, or bowls. 

You can definitely expect controlled turns and a smooth ride, which is possible because of the premium high rebound bushings. The skaters could use these trucks to practice transitioning from cruising to skateboard tricks, and vice versa. 

Pros

• Great stability when taking turns
• Best suitable for beginners 
• Multipurpose use
• Includes hardware
• Silver appearance to go with any deck design
• No-slip and high-quality kingpin

Cons

• Grinding is not applicable

07. Caliber Best Speed Skateboard Truck

We conclude the review list with a stellar and undeniably the best skateboard truck set as a final touchdown. No matter how hard you push them, they will never disappoint you. The Caliber 10-inch is made to deliver speed and go beyond the limit.

So racing on the steep slopes will be a piece of cake for the skaters with standard experience. It is possible due to the 44-degree hanger angle; it asks you to break the boundary and go downhill. 

Thanks to the light yet strong bushings, you get to achieve a convenient ride with minimized pressure on the deck. Plus, they will help build up the resistance in order to prevent sudden turns. On top of that, you would hardly feel any wobbles when going at high speed. 

It is because the blood orange bushings with a couple of 89A barrels make sure to keep things stable. However, you should know to keep the trucks tight enough for speed wobble-free skating.

Some might point out the low placement design of the hanger, but the brand has structured it that way on purpose. This is to gain further balance on your end. 

Pros

• Premium quality bushings
• Affordable
• Releases speed and stability at max
• Perfect for downhill performance
• No wobbling
• Durable and sturdy
• Awesome turns during freeride 

Cons

• Wheel bite issues when carving very hard

Factors to Consider While Purchasing the Perfect Skateboard Truck

The general principles of the T-shaped instrument will always remain the same no matter which type of truck you are opting for, longboard or skateboard.

You just have to know basic functions before buying the object. These five primary features in a truck will familiarize you with its functions when fixed to the deck.

A. Truck Types

Firstly, these trucks that work as joints to link everything varies in size. Secondly, their profile will also weigh upon the vote for being the best trucks.

Here, the profile explains the distance between the bottom skating deck and the hanger. You see, there are three kinds of profiles, so we should judge the finest trucks according to that panel.

A. Low Trucks

They are suitable for tech skating, like performing flip tricks because the wheels are set closer. The low-level trucks are most fit to utilize in skatepark skating or ledge grinds.

Our choice of the brand here is the popular INDEPENDENT Skateboard Trucks 129mm Stage 11 because of the exuding raw beauty and reliability.

B. Medium Trucks

If there is one thing known as convenience-for-all, then the medium truck profiles are the right solution. They are a solid preference for street or park skateboarding without compromising the importance of both.

So it was a bit tricky to get to the final selection, but we have done it anyway! Havoc 5.0 Skateboard Trucks are the most versatile and popular for being on the common grounds of today’s marketplace.

C. High Trucks

These are most preferred for longboards and bigger decks. Thus, they are best for cruising and carving. Our verdict is with Caliber Truck Co. 10-Inch Skateboard Truck for providing wheel clearance and very responsive turns.

B. Baseplate

This is where every component is attached. The baseplate will be fixed onto the bottom of the deck by screws. So it needs to be checked with your deck.

C. Kingpin Position

This object is one of the very significant features of a truck because the kingpin is the only bolt that holds all the parts together. It is pretty big and fits comfortably inside the bushings.

That is why always remember not to go for the hollow ones. They might be lightweight, but they are not advisable.

D. Hanger Width

The hanger is the largest metal piece with a triangular shape that supports the axle. You will realize its worth when performing tricks or taking sharp turns.

E. Axle Length

It is a long pin whose ends attach to the wheels. The axle runs through the hanger and sprouts out on both sides. Axle pin width must always synchronize with the deck width.

F. Bushings

Bushings are the set of soft rings that determine the level of smoothness as you allow your board to pivot and turn. They are situated firmly around the kingpin.

G. Brand Reputation

As always, we prioritize the brand when the purpose is to get the best one. So don’t forget to focus on it. A popular brand can provide a better skateboard truck that gives a long-lasting opportunity and better comfort.

FAQs About Skateboard Trucks

These are some frequently asked questions by people about the best trucks for longboards.

Do trucks matter on a skateboard?

It is like asking if brakes matter in a car. Trucks should always be considered crucial instruments when it comes to skateboarding. The more you upgrade to high-grade trucks, the better turns, and tricks you will be able to perform. They will stabilize the deck as you street skate as well as lessen the wheel bite issue.

Can I use 7.75” trucks on an 8” deck?

Although it is okay, we still suggest opting for matching widths. If the board is wider, so should the trucks. However, small decks should conform to equally sized trucks, respectively.

Can I use low trucks for street skating?

Technically yes, but that might not be such a good idea. Low trucks are far better with tricks like ledge grinds and flips. The setup, however, does not work well for street skateboarding. We suggest going for the highs.

What is the advantage of smaller trucks than the deck?

They reduce wheel bite; the geometrical involvement shows that the smaller trucks induce better wheel clearance. Of course, it is not suitable for all types of skateboarding.

How do I figure out which size trucks are good for my skateboard?

We recommend following a truck-size chart that also shows deck width, wheel size, and heights. Different manufacturers provide different measurement scales. Hence, try to stick to either inch or mm. for further understanding.

Final Words

To the world unaware of skateboard tactics, it might seem like a simple sport/cruising board. However, the secrets within the instruments, such as the intricacy of trucks, will entirely change how one views the item.

And to the skaters, we truly wish our guide has shed some light on which model to choose for a customizing improvement. So, that is it for today. We hope our best skateboard truck reviews have cleared the fog about every individual product review. Thank you!