Skateboard trucks are the metal pieces that attach the wheels to the deck of a skateboard. The height of the trucks is measured from the baseplate, which is the part that attaches to the deck, to the hanger, which is the part that holds the wheel.
The height of the trucks is an important factor in the performance of a skateboard because it affects the stability, turning ability, and overall feel of the skateboard.
Here, we will discuss in detail high trucks vs low trucks and how to select the best truck for your skateboarding needs.
What is a Truck on a Skateboard?
A truck on a skateboard refers to the metal T-shaped component that attaches the wheels to the deck of the skateboard. It allows the skateboarder to steer and control the board. The trucks typically consist of a baseplate, hanger, kingpin, bushings, and washers.
Jump to Best Skateboard Trucks for Tricks and Street
High Trucks vs Low Trucks
Take a look at the difference between skateboard trucks’ heights.
High Trucks Explained:
High skateboard trucks have a higher height measurement. Skateboarders have been riding high trucks for decades. This is because high trucks are more stable and provide a more comfortable ride.
High trucks are usually recommended for riders who want a more stable ride. They are also the best option for riders who want more leverage and control over their boards.
High trucks are better for turning. You can ride looser wheels with high trucks because there is enough room for wheels.
Higher trucks offer a little more space between the wheels and the deck, which helps prevent wheel bite.
High trucks also work best for cruiser boards with slightly larger wheels (56mm or above).
Pros of High Trucks:
- High trucks are suitable for larger wheels.
- Better for turning.
- Minimize the risk of wheel bite.
- More Pop.
- Ideal For tall people.
- Can be used for street, pool, park skating, and other places where you want to go fast.
Cons of High Skateboard Trucks:
- High trucks are heavier.
- Less stability when grinding.
Low Skateboard Trucks Explained:
Low skateboard trucks are the best option for tech skating. When you ride a skateboard with low trucks, the wheels sit closer to the board, making it easier for you to perform tricks.
A low-truck skateboard is also great for people who want to learn how to skateboard because it will help them get better at performing tricks.
When riding a low truck skateboard, you must choose a small diameter wheel between 48mm and 53mm. This will minimize the risk of wheel bite.
The closer you can get the wheels to the board without them touching, the better.
Pros of Low Skateboard Trucks:
- Ideal for technical tricks.
- Offering more stability when grinding rails.
- Low skateboard trucks are lighter.
- Have a lower center of gravity than standard-height trucks.
Cons of Low Skateboard Trucks:
- Low skateboard trucks can cause wheel bite when you ride larger wheels.
- Less turning radius.
- Your tail hits the ground while riding low skateboard trucks.
I have an article on Loose vs Tight Trucks: Which One Is Stable And Faster? You can read here which skateboard truck setup is best for your riding style.
High Trucks or Low Trucks: Which One is Best for Beginners?
Our recommendation is to go with high trucks because you will have a much wider selection of trucks and wheels to choose from. With high trucks, you can easily find wheels that will fit your riding style and needs.
High skateboard trucks are more responsive and give you more wheel clearance.
This means that you can use bigger wheels without as much chance of wheel bite. However, they can also be a bit harder to control and are less forgiving than low trucks.
On the other hand, low trucks are more limiting because of their smaller size.
If you are just starting out, we suggest choosing high skateboard trucks to get the most out of your skating experience.
Medium Size Skateboard Trucks
Medium trucks are often a good compromise between high and low trucks.
Medium Skateboard trucks are versatile and work well on different skateboards, including street, cruiser, longboard, and downhill boards.
The medium height of a skateboard truck provides a good balance between maneuverability and stability.
The mid-height trucks are great for cruising around town or practicing your skills at the skatepark. They’re also ideal for downhill boards since they offer better stability.
If you’re looking for a good all-around truck, then we recommend choosing a mid-height truck as your first set.
Difference Between High Trucks and Low Trucks
There isn’t much of a difference when it comes to high vs. low skateboard trucks.
The main difference between high and low skateboard trucks is the height and weight of the trucks. High trucks are slightly taller in height and weight than low skateboard trucks.
High trucks are ideal for cruising and carving, while low trucks are perfect for technical tricks and popping ollies.
You can fit large wheels on high trucks but not on low ones.
If you’re looking for speed, then high truckers are your best bet—they provide more speed than low skateboard trucks.
But if you’re looking for stability in a skateboarder who enjoys doing 360s through the air, you’ll want to go with a lower truck instead.
Should I Ride Low Trucks or High Trucks?
The decision to use high or low trucks depends on individual preference. It is best to try both options and see which one feels most natural for you.
When choosing the proper skateboard truck setup, the first thing you should think about is what type of skating you want to do.
High trucks are the best way to go if you’re looking to do transition skating or bowls, pools, and ollies. You’ll be able to carve on curbs and rails easily and get more air on jumps and drops.
High trucks will help you get more stability and control over your board.
On the other hand,
Low trucks are the way to go if you’re looking to do flip tricks or grind on ledges and rails.
Low trucks make it easier to pop up off-ramps or take off from a drop without catching an edge in the process—they also make it easier to maintain balance when lifting from a ledge or rail onto another surface (like when landing a kickflip).
What are High Skateboard Trucks Good for?
High skateboard trucks are good for all of your skateboarding needs.
High Skateboard Trucks allow you to ride a skateboard at high speeds with ease, and they also give you greater control over the way your board responds to obstacles.
This means that if you’re looking to get more speed out of your ride, then high skateboard trucks are definitely worth looking into.
High skateboard trucks are designed for comfort and control.
Hight trucks have a wider base than Low skateboard trucks, which means they distribute weight more evenly across the board, reducing pressure points on your feet and making it easier to balance yourself while riding.
They also feature a bigger turning radius than other Low trucks, which gives you better control over how quickly or slowly your board turns. You also won’t have to worry about wheel bite with High Trucks.
What is the Best Height for Skateboard Trucks?
The best height for skateboard trucks is the height that you feel most comfortable skating.
Many factors go into choosing a truck height, including the size of your board, your weight, and your stance.
Table: Skateboard Trucks Height and Size Guide:
| Deck Size | Hanger Width | Axle Width |
| 7.5 to 7.75″ | 127mm / 5″ | 193mm / 7.6″ |
| 7.75 to 8.25″ | 137mm / 5.25″ | 203mm / 8″ |
| 8.25 to 8.75″ | 149mm / 6″ | 215mm / 8.5″ |
| 8.75 to 9.75″ | 160mm / 6.3″ | 226mm / 8.5″ |
| Over 9.75″ | 183mm / 7.2″ | 254mm / 10″ |
Skateboard Trucks Size Guide and Recommended Wheels Size:
Following Are the skateboard truck’s height guide with recommended wheel size.
1. Low Skateboard Trucks (Low Trucks)
| Low Truck Height | Recommend Maximum Wheels Size |
| 46mm | 51mm |
| 47mm | 52mm |
| 48mm | 53mm |
2. Medium Skateboard Trucks:
| Medium Truck Height | Recommend Maximum Wheels Size |
| 50mm | 56mm |
| 52mm | 60mm |
3. High Skateboard Trucks: (High Trucks)
| High Trucks Height | Recommend Maximum Wheels Size |
| 53mm | 62mm |
| 55mm | 63mm |
| 56mm | 64mm |
What are the Best Skateboard Trucks for Tricks and Street?
Here is my top pick for you.
Independent Skateboard Stage 11 Trucks:
Independent trucks are a well-known brand for skateboard trucks. They are popular among skaters because they are strong and help improve their tricks.
This new geometry of the Stage 11 trucks provides a great combination of strength and performance for skaters looking to take their skills to the next level.
Independent trucks are well-known for their versatility and give you high performance with high-quality materials and they are known as being some of the most durable trucks on the market.
Independent trucks provide a great combination of strength and performance for anyone looking to take their skills to the next level.
Independent trucks are known for being very turny, which makes them perfect for skaters who like to perform quick and precise maneuvers.
The overall design is also sleek and stylish, making them a great choice for skaters who want to look good while they’re shredding.
If you can afford the slightly higher cost, Independent trucks are worth the investment for their long-lasting durability and performance.
Buy Independent Trucks on Amazon.
Are Independent Trucks Good for Street Skating?
Yes, independent trucks are a popular choice for street skating because they offer a combination of stability and agility that is well-suited to the demands of street skating.
Independent trucks are known for their precise and responsive turning, which allows skaters to easily navigate tight corners and maneuver around obstacles.
Some skaters may prefer the feel of other brands or models of trucks, such as Thunder, Venture, or Royal. Ultimately, the best trucks for street skating are the ones that feel comfortable and perform well for the individual skater.
Wrap-Up On High Vs. Low Skateboard Trucks
Hopefully, now you have a better idea of what high vs. low skateboard trucks are.
After reading this article, you should be able to decide which type of skateboard truck is best for you. However, if you’re still unsure, consider trying out both options.
The truth is that both high and low trucks have their place in skateboarding. Both are good, so the choice likely comes down to personal preference.
Thank you for reading this guide, and we hope you find it useful. Please leave us a comment below if you have any questions or comments.
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