Skateboards consist of three components, the deck, the wheels and the trucks, which are the metal axles that hold the wheels. Trucks are made of aluminum, titanium or steel and each skateboard has two, one in the front and one in the back, with two wheels per truck. The trucks are the most durable part of your skateboard and often the last thing standing after your board wears away from regular grinding. Choosing the right trucks is crucial, but new riders are often confused about choosing between high and low trucks.
Understanding Truck Height
The truck height refers to the distance between the bottom of the deck and the hanger -- the inner part of the truck. Understanding the difference between truck heights will help you choose the right trucks for your needs. With low trucks, you're closer to the ground. This lower center of gravity provides added stability, making it ideal for flip tricks, technical street skating and decks with smaller wheels. High trucks give you more room between the trucks and the deck and this added clearance is ideal for larger wheels, such as those designed for cruising and carving. High trucks work best for wheels that are 56 millimeters and larger. Another option is mid-size, which is the standard and a good option for most skateboarders, whether you plan to skate on the street or at the skate park.
Understanding Truck Height
The truck height refers to the distance between the bottom of the deck and the hanger -- the inner part of the truck. Understanding the difference between truck heights will help you choose the right trucks for your needs. With low trucks, you're closer to the ground. This lower center of gravity provides added stability, making it ideal for flip tricks, technical street skating and decks with smaller wheels. High trucks give you more room between the trucks and the deck and this added clearance is ideal for larger wheels, such as those designed for cruising and carving. High trucks work best for wheels that are 56 millimeters and larger. Another option is mid-size, which is the standard and a good option for most skateboarders, whether you plan to skate on the street or at the skate park.