Selecting the right skateboard trucks is crucial for beginners, significantly impacting their learning experience. This guide will help you choose the ideal trucks, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable start to skateboarding. We’ll explore top truck brands and essential factors to consider, focusing on quality and suitability rather than just the cheapest options. Remember, investing in decent trucks is key to a positive skateboarding journey.
Top Skateboard Trucks for Beginners
Choosing reliable trucks from reputable brands can make all the difference. Here are some of the best options for beginners, each with their unique characteristics:
1. Venture Trucks
Venture Trucks for beginner skateboarders
Venture Trucks are known for their excellent quality and reasonable price. They offer exceptional stability, making them perfect for beginners who are still learning the ropes. The unique geometry of Venture trucks creates a slightly longer wheelbase, offering smooth and controlled turns. Their angled hanger design allows easy access to the front nut with a skate tool. While they’re not the lightest, they’re robust enough to handle the inevitable bumps and grinds of learning. Venture trucks are a solid choice for beginners seeking durability and control.
Venture truck assembly detail
2. Thunder Trucks
Thunder Hollow Lights skateboard trucks
Thunder Trucks are a popular choice due to their stability and consistent turning. These trucks offer a smooth ride right out of the box, with minimal break-in time required for the bushings. They are versatile, suitable for various skating styles, from mini ramps to street skating. While Thunder Trucks provide a wider wheelbase, it is not as long as Venture trucks, which allows for convenient skate tool usage. They are also known for their balanced feel, which is great for manuals and scoop tricks. Thunder Trucks are slightly more expensive than some brands but offer excellent value for beginners.
Thunder Truck mounted on a skateboard
3. Independent Trucks
Independent Trucks Stage 11 Forged Titanium
Independent Trucks, often called “Indys,” are renowned for their durability and sharp turning radius. While they might be a bit heavier, especially the standard models, many skaters prefer them for their robust construction. Indys are taller than other trucks, reducing the chance of wheel bite when landing tricks. They are favored by bowl, ramp, and park riders for their performance and ability to handle larger wheels. For beginners, the initial stability might take some getting used to, but they are a reliable and long-lasting option.
4. Paris Street Trucks
Paris Street trucks on a complete skateboard
Paris is well-known for longboard trucks but also offers excellent street trucks that are great for beginners. Paris Street Trucks are versatile and suitable for various skating styles. They provide good turning and require minimal break-in time. These trucks are stable and can handle a bit of abuse, making them a popular choice for complete setups. Although they might not be the most durable, they offer a balanced experience for learning technical tricks and transitioning to different terrains. Paris trucks are a safe bet if you’re unsure what to choose.
5. Tensor Trucks
Tensor Trucks close up
Tensor Trucks, from Rodney Mullen’s company, are another good option for beginners. While not the most durable or high-performing trucks, they offer a decent all-around experience. Tensor trucks are lightweight and have a versatile geometry, making them suitable for most skating styles. They are often found on complete setups, which can be a good starting point for beginners. Tensor Trucks are a solid choice if you’re looking for a balanced and affordable option.
What to Look for in Skateboard Trucks as a Beginner
When choosing skateboard trucks, focus on these key factors to ensure a positive experience:
Quality Materials
Skateboard trucks should be made from high-quality metal. Avoid trucks made of plastic or low-grade metals, which are prone to breaking. Quality trucks will have a brand name stamped on the baseplate. This ensures durability and safety. Buying from reputable brands is crucial for long-lasting performance.
Proper Fit
The width of your trucks should ideally match the width of your skateboard deck. They can be slightly wider or narrower (by a maximum of 0.25 inches) but avoid excessive differences. This balance prevents issues like foot drag when pushing or instability during turns. If buying a complete setup, the trucks should be correctly matched to the board’s width.
Mid-Height Trucks
For beginners, “mid-height” trucks are the most suitable option. They provide a good balance of stability and responsiveness. They feel familiar and offer a comfortable standard for learning to push, roll, and turn. Once you have established your preferred skating style, you can start experimenting with high and low trucks.
Standard Weight Trucks
Most manufacturers offer standard and lightweight versions. As a beginner, the difference between the standard and lightweight versions is negligible, making it not worth the extra expense. Start with the standard weight trucks, and you can consider lighter versions as you progress.
Avoid Gimmicks
Steer clear of gimmick trucks. These are trucks with unnecessary features that do not enhance performance. Focus on quality trucks from reputable brands instead of being swayed by unnecessary features. Choose reliable designs that have stood the test of time.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right skateboard trucks as a beginner can greatly enhance your learning experience. By selecting high-quality trucks from reputable brands, ensuring a proper fit, and avoiding gimmicks, you can set yourself up for success. Remember, investing in good components will make skateboarding more enjoyable and safer.
