Ever feel like your longboard is just… not quite right? Maybe it feels wobbly when you want to carve, or it’s too stiff when you want to cruise. Choosing the right trucks for your longboard is a big deal! It’s like picking the perfect shoes for running – the wrong ones can make the whole experience a drag.
We know it can be confusing. There are so many different kinds of trucks out there, with fancy names and specs that sound like a secret code. You want trucks that help you turn smoothly, stay stable at speed, and just feel good under your feet. But where do you even begin to find them? It’s a common problem for longboarders, from beginners just starting out to experienced riders looking to upgrade.
That’s why we’re here to help! In this post, we’ll break down exactly what you need to know about longboard trucks. We’ll explain the different types, what makes them work, and how to pick the perfect set for your riding style and your board. By the end, you’ll feel confident in choosing trucks that will make your longboard feel amazing.
Top Trucks For Longboard Recommendations
- High quality aluminum alloy Free Hardware
- The new standard for reverse kingpin longboard trucks, made of forged A356 aluminum that's stronger and more precise than any other truck in its category. The Atlas RKP offers a ride that is almost indistinguishable from trucks at 5 times the price.
- This ready-to-ride truck sports all the signature Atlas features: machined ball pivot, tapered kingpin & built-in speed rings. It also boasts an 8mm axle through the hanger that eliminates additional aluminum making it 20% lighter than the original Atlas
- With a cone bushing boardside & a cone bushing roadside this truck is perfect for cruising, carving & freeriding. The cones offer high rebound for a carvy, surfy feel while the 48 degree baseplate & ball pivot create fluid lean you need to feel to believe
- Your trucks are the most important part of your longboard. That's why we designed every individual component of our trucks to meet the most exacting tolerances. The end product delivers a fluid, stable, and reactive ride unlike any other longboard truck.
- Atlas designs each of their longboard trucks from the ground up using solid construction technology for maximum lean and consistent control. Compare their line of trucks to products by Paris, Caliber, Bear, Gullwing & Randal
- SUPERIOR CONTROL & RETURN TO CENTER – Designed with a 50° baseplate and 180mm hanger for exceptional lean and a locked-in feel through every carve and corner. Smooth, predictable, and confidence-inspiring at speed
- PRECISION-BUILT FOR PERFORMANCE – Cast with tight tolerances to mimic CNC precision. Deep bushing seats, exact geometry, and ultra-stiff axles make for a smooth yet stable ride
- HIGH-STRENGTH AXLES & KINGPINS – Chemically bonded 1144 axles and aircraft-grade kingpins/nuts ensure extreme durability under heavy loads and aggressive riding styles
- VERSATILE, FLIPPABLE HANGER DESIGN – Flip the hanger to fine-tune ride height and response. Tweak your setup for freeride looseness or downhill control with one truck
- BUILT FOR SPEED, CRAFTED FOR COMFORT – Designed by riders, battle-tested in the mountains. Whether you're bombing hills or carving through campus, Arsenal delivers next-level performance
- CARVING PERFECTION — The Paris V2 180mm 50° longboard trucks offer the smoothest, most fluid carves in and out of turns.
- STRONG & DURABLE — Built to last, Paris V2 trucks are produced using virgin aluminum. The T6 heat treatment process, grade 8 steel axles, and pressed-in kingpins create added strength and durability.
- ULTIMATE RESPONSE — For the best response and rebound, Paris V2 trucks come stock with USA-made Paris 90a urethane bushings.
- UNIVERSAL MOUNTING — 6-hole baseplate is compatible with both new-school and old-school mounting options.
- GUARANTEED FOR LIFE — Paris’ superior manufacturing processes allow them to guarantee their trucks will last a lifetime!
- COMPLETE LONGBOARD KIT – Everything needed to replace or upgrade your longboard, including 7” reverse kingpin aluminum trucks, 70mm x 51mm 78A wheels, ABEC-7 bearings, 1.5 inch hardware, spacer and 6mm riser pads.
- SMOOTH & STABLE PERFORMANCE – 180mm reverse kingpin trucks provide responsive turning, excellent stability and dependable control for cruising, carving, commuting, freeride and downhill riding.
- FAST ROLLING 70MM WHEELS – High-rebound 78A urethane wheels deliver outstanding grip, smooth rolling and vibration reduction for a comfortable ride on streets, sidewalks and paved paths.
- PRECISION BEARINGS & HARDWARE – Premium ABEC-7 bearings help maintain speed while gel riser pads reduce vibration and wheel bite. Includes mounting hardware for quick, hassle-free installation.
- IDEAL REPLACEMENT OR UPGRADE – Compatible with most longboard decks, this complete truck and wheel kit is perfect for replacing worn parts or building a custom longboard setup.
- 7.5-inch Truck: Durable Magnesium Aluminum Alloy, Die-cast, Hardened Steel, Baked Finish for Extra Weight Support
- 60 mm Skateboard Wheels, 80a Hardness, 60% Rebound, PU Infusion for Crack Resistance
- Smooth ABEC-9 Bearings: 608 Standard, Continuous 30S Rotation Without Load
- Deck Compatibility: Fits 7.5 to 8-inch Skateboard Decks
- This �just add wood� package contains everything you need to complete or upgrade a deck. Includes Trucks, Wheels, Bearings, Hardware, and Risers. Just add wood!
- Bigfoot Mountain Cruisers measure 76mm x 53mm with a 80A SHR hardness. The 80A Super High Rebound (SHR) hardness provides a good grip and stability at high speeds.
- The Mountain Cruiser is designed for the riders looking to go fast (slalom, downhill)
- Core trucks are light weight and feature heavy duty aluminum with grade 8 steel kingpins and axles, as well as USA made bushings and pivot cups.
- COMPLETE LONGBOARD KIT – Everything needed to replace or upgrade your longboard, including 7” reverse kingpin aluminum trucks, 70mm x 51mm 78A wheels, ABEC-7 bearings, 1.5 inch hardware, spacer and 6mm riser pads.
- SMOOTH & STABLE PERFORMANCE – 180mm reverse kingpin trucks provide responsive turning, excellent stability and dependable control for cruising, carving, commuting, freeride and downhill riding.
- FAST ROLLING 70MM WHEELS – High-rebound 78A urethane wheels deliver outstanding grip, smooth rolling and vibration reduction for a comfortable ride on streets, sidewalks and paved paths.
- PRECISION BEARINGS & HARDWARE – Premium ABEC-7 bearings help maintain speed while gel riser pads reduce vibration and wheel bite. Includes mounting hardware for quick, hassle-free installation.
- IDEAL REPLACEMENT OR UPGRADE – Compatible with most longboard decks, this complete truck and wheel kit is perfect for replacing worn parts or building a custom longboard setup.
Choosing the Best Trucks for Your Longboard
What to Look For When Buying Longboard Trucks
When you’re ready to upgrade your longboard or build a new one, the trucks are super important. They connect your wheels to your deck and help you steer. Picking the right ones makes a big difference in how your board rides.
Key Features to Look For
- Truck Width: This is the most important thing. The truck’s width should match your deck’s width. A good rule of thumb is that the axles (the part where the wheels attach) should be about the same width as your deck. If your trucks are too wide, your board will be wobbly. If they are too narrow, it will be harder to turn.
- Height: Trucks come in different heights: low, medium, and high.
- Low trucks keep your board closer to the ground. This makes it easier to push and more stable for cruising.
- Medium trucks are a good all-around choice. They offer a balance of stability and turnability.
- High trucks give you more clearance from the ground. This is good for carving and avoiding wheel bite (when the wheels rub against the deck during turns).
- Bushings: These are the rubbery rings inside the truck that help you turn. They come in different hardness levels.
- Softer bushings make it easier to turn. They are good for beginners or lighter riders.
- Harder bushings make the board more stable. They are better for faster riding or heavier riders.
- Kingpin Angle: Most longboard trucks have a kingpin angle of 50 degrees. This is a standard angle that works well for most riding styles. Some trucks have different angles for specific types of riding.
Important Materials
Longboard trucks are usually made from strong metals.
- Aluminum Alloy: This is the most common material. It’s strong, light, and affordable. Most beginner and intermediate trucks use aluminum alloy.
- Steel: Some parts of the truck, like the kingpin and axles, might be made of steel for extra strength.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
- Precision Machining: Trucks that are made with good precision will feel smoother and more responsive when you turn. This means they won’t have any wiggle or looseness where they shouldn’t.
- Durability: Good trucks can handle a lot of riding. They won’t bend or break easily, even if you ride on rough surfaces or do tricks.
- Brand Reputation: Well-known longboard truck brands often have better quality control. They spend time making sure their trucks work well.
- Weight: Lighter trucks can make your board feel more nimble. However, very light trucks might not be as strong. A good balance is usually best.
User Experience and Use Cases
The type of longboard trucks you choose depends on how you like to ride.
- Cruising and Commuting: For just riding around town or to school, you want trucks that are stable and easy to push. Medium height trucks with medium-hard bushings are usually a good choice.
- Carving and Dancing: If you like to make big, flowing turns or do footwork on your board, you might want trucks that turn easily. Lower trucks with softer bushings can help with this.
- Downhill and Freeride: For riding fast down hills or doing slides, stability is key. Harder bushings and slightly wider trucks can give you more control at high speeds.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How do I know what size trucks to get?
A: You should match the width of your trucks to the width of your longboard deck. The axles of the trucks should be about the same width as your deck.
Q: What’s the difference between low, medium, and high trucks?
A: Low trucks are closer to the ground for stability. High trucks have more space for bigger wheels and better turning. Medium trucks offer a balance of both.
Q: What are bushings and why do they matter?
A: Bushings are rubber rings that help your trucks turn. Softer bushings make turning easier, while harder bushings make the ride more stable.
Q: Can I use skateboard trucks on a longboard?
A: It’s generally not recommended. Longboard trucks are usually wider and built differently to handle the demands of longboarding.
Q: How often should I replace my longboard trucks?
A: Trucks are pretty durable. You usually only need to replace them if they get bent, cracked, or the kingpin breaks.
Q: What does “wheel bite” mean?
A: Wheel bite happens when your wheels touch your deck during a turn. This can stop your board suddenly. Higher trucks or smaller wheels can help prevent it.
Q: Are expensive trucks always better?
A: Not always. Good quality trucks can be found at different price points. Focus on the features that match your riding style.
Q: Can I change the bushings on my trucks?
A: Yes! You can easily swap out bushings to change how your board feels. This is a great way to fine-tune your ride.
Q: What makes trucks turn smoothly?
A: Precision in manufacturing and good quality bushings help trucks turn smoothly and predictably.
Q: Where can I find good longboard trucks?
A: You can find longboard trucks at skate shops, online retailers, and sometimes at sporting goods stores.