Best Trucks For Longboards In 2025

Ever wonder why your longboard doesn’t turn as smoothly as your friend’s? Or why does it feel shaky when you try to carve or dance on it? The secret is in the selection of trucks for longboards.  Picking the best longboard trucks can make a huge difference to how your board performs. Whether you’re carving down hills, dancing through the streets, commuting to work, or riding freestyle, your trucks matter a lot. The right setup helps you stay in control and feel more comfortable while riding.

We’ve tested some of the most popular longboard trucks available right now. Our experts have gone through different styles like dancing, commuting, freestyle, and carving.  Here we’ll share how matters the riding styles and what longboard trucks really work.

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Understanding Longboard Truck Basics

We’ve talked here about the core components and types of longboard trucks to help you better understand the trucks. When picking longboard trucks, it helps to know the three main types. These are Reverse Kingpin (RKP), Traditional Kingpin (TKP), and Double Kingpin (DKP). Each one works best for different kinds of riding.

Reverse Kingpin (RKP) Trucks

Reverse Kingpin trucks are very common for longboards. The kingpin, which is the main bolt, points outwards, away from the board. These trucks help the rider make smooth turns and stay stable at higher speeds. They are great for cruising, carving, freeriding, going downhill, or just getting around. RKP trucks also sit higher off the ground, which gives you more space to lean into turns.

Traditional Kingpin (TKP) Trucks

Traditional Kingpin trucks are usually seen on skateboards and small cruiser boards. The kingpin on these trucks points inward, toward the center of the board. TKP trucks turn quickly and feel very responsive. They sit closer to the ground, which helps with tricks or pushing. But they are not as stable when you go fast. Some people still use them on longboards if they want sharp turns and a quick response.

Double Kingpin (DKP) Trucks

Double Kingpin trucks have two kingpins stacked together. This setup gives you a very deep turn. They are super fun to ride if you want that surf-like feeling. These trucks are perfect for carving and pumping. But they are not good for riding fast. DKP trucks sit very high off the ground and feel loose when going downhill.

Quick View Of Top Picks

Dancing Longboard Trucks

Downhill Longboard Trucks

Commuting Longboard Trucks

Freestyle Longboard Trucks

Carving Longboard Trucks

Longboard Trucks for Dancing

Longboard dancing is a smooth and stylish riding style that focuses on fluid movements, fancy footwork, and creative spins on the board. To dance well on a longboard, you need the right trucks that let you move freely without losing control or getting wheelbite (when the wheel touches the board during turns).

One of the most important things is responsive turning. Trucks should react quickly to small shifts in your weight so you can do precise steps and tricks. Along with that, good lean is also key. Lean helps you carve deeply and make your moves look smooth and stylish.

Since dancing puts a lot of pressure on your trucks, durability is also important. You want trucks that can handle the stress of constant movement and jumping around on the deck. Most dancers use RKP (Reverse Kingpin) trucks because they offer the right mix of easy turning and deep lean. Wider hangers, usually 180mm or more, are best because they give you a stable surface to move and step on. Also, trucks with higher baseplate angles, around 48° to 50°, make turning easier and more responsive, perfect for the flowing style of dancing.

Paris V3 180mm 50° Trucks

The Paris V3 trucks are a long-time favorite thanks to their strong build and smooth turning. Their unique manufacturing makes them durable, while the 50° baseplate angle provides excellent lean and responsive carving, perfect for longboard dancing. They also work well for cruising and light freeride. Many riders upgrade the bushings to softer ones like Riptide or Orangatang to get even smoother rebound and better feel for dancing.

My Experience

As a pro, I love how Paris V3s handle intricate dance moves with buttery smooth turns and plenty of lean. They’re strong enough to take trick landings, and upgrading the bushings lets me dial in the perfect rebound. These trucks feel very lively and responsive, making them my top pick when I want to flow through my dance routines effortlessly.

Caliber II 50° 184mm Trucks

Caliber II trucks are known for precision and stability. The 50° version shines with Blood Orange stock bushings that balance turn and control well. They are robust enough for dancing tricks and have a clean bushing seat for consistent performance. Riders can adjust bushing hardness to fine-tune stability and turning support during cross-stepping.

My Experience

I’ve found Caliber II 50° trucks to be rock solid for dancing. They offer a smooth, controlled feel but still allow quick turns when I need them. The stock bushings work great, but I often experiment with different barrel bushings to get the right support. For dancers who want reliability and control, these trucks are a dependable choice.

Bear Grizzly Gen 6 180mm 50° Trucks

Bear Grizzly Gen 6 trucks have improved strength and responsiveness compared to earlier versions. They are praised for their smooth turning and durability. The lively feel helps riders initiate turns easily and keep their flow during dancing. While the stock bushings are good, many riders swap them out to match their weight and preferred rebound.

My Experience

In my dancing sessions, Bear Gen 6 trucks feel very lively and responsive. They make it easy to start turns and maintain smooth flow, which is crucial for longboard dancing. I appreciate their durability and the ability to customize bushings for the perfect rebound. These trucks are a solid choice if you want a smooth, playful ride.

Best Downhill Longboard Trucks

Downhill longboarding needs trucks that are very stable, strong, and smooth at high speeds. The right trucks keep your board steady while letting you turn safely.

The best downhill trucks usually have:

• Low Baseplate Angles (40°–45°): These help keep the board stable and reduce wobbling at fast speeds.
• Wide Hangers (180mm or more): Wider trucks give better balance and control on steep hills.
• Strong, Durable Build: Trucks must handle the impact and pressure of downhill riding.
• RKP (Reverse Kingpin) Style: Most downhill trucks are RKP because they balance stability and smooth turning.

Top truck brands like Paris, Caliber, Bear, and Aera make popular downhill trucks known for quality and performance on fast rides.

1. Caliber Trucks 50° Longboard Trucks

Caliber 50° trucks are designed for downhill and freeride with a focus on stability and smooth turning. Their low baseplate angle helps reduce speed wobbles, making them excellent for fast, steep rides. Made from strong aluminum, these trucks offer durability and reliable performance. The wider hanger provides great balance and control, ideal for high-speed runs.

My Experience After Testing

As a pro longboarder, I’ve ridden Caliber 50° trucks on many downhill runs. They give me solid confidence thanks to their stable feel at high speeds. The trucks handle rough roads and sharp turns with ease, and I appreciate how smooth their turning response is. For anyone pushing downhill limits, these trucks deliver trustworthy performance right out of the box.

2. VJ Longboard Trucks for Downhill & Freeride

VJ longboard trucks are built for both downhill and freeride riders seeking durability and responsiveness. Their precise design offers smooth turns and good clearance to prevent wheelbite during deep carves and slides. These trucks stand up well to the stress of downhill riding and provide a stable, controlled ride.

My Riding Experience

In my downhill sessions, VJ trucks have proven to be reliable and versatile. They respond quickly to weight shifts and allow for smooth carving, while their clearance helps avoid wheelbite during aggressive moves. Their solid build gives me confidence when pushing speed or trying tricks. VJ trucks are a great choice for riders who want a dependable all-around setup.

3. Paris V2 180mm Longboard Trucks

Paris trucks are popular among downhill riders for their smooth turning and balanced stability. Featuring a 50-degree baseplate angle and a wide 180mm hanger, they offer excellent control and lean for carving and fast rides. Made from durable aluminum, Paris trucks handle rough terrain and impacts well.

My Observation after testing

I’ve used Paris trucks in many downhill races and training sessions. They offer the perfect balance between responsive turning and stable control, especially at high speeds. The wide hanger gives me extra leverage on technical runs, and its durability means they hold up well on rough pavement. Paris trucks are my go-to for consistent, pro-level downhill performance.

Best Longboard Trucks for Commuting

When you’re commuting on a longboard, you need trucks that give you a smooth, stable, and reliable ride. Whether you’re rolling over rough sidewalks or weaving through city streets, the right trucks make a big difference in comfort and control.

Stability at moderate speeds is important so you feel safe and balanced during your ride. Your trucks should also offer a smooth ride, helping to absorb bumps and cracks in the road. At the same time, efficient turning is key for getting around corners, people, or other obstacles with ease.

Since commuting usually means riding every day, your trucks should be durable and able to handle regular wear and tear. RKP (Reverse Kingpin) trucks are a great choice for most commuters because they offer a smooth, stable ride and a good amount of lean. However, TKP (Traditional Kingpin) trucks can work well on smaller cruisers, especially if you want quicker, sharper turns.

Go for mid-to-wide hangers, around 150mm to 180mm. These offer a nice balance between being stable and easy to steer. Also, moderate baseplate angles between 43° and 50° give you both stability and smooth turning, perfect for daily city rides.

Paris V3 165mm or 180mm 50°

Paris V3 trucks are a top choice for commuters because of their smooth turns and stable ride. The 50° baseplate makes them perfect for weaving through sidewalks or city streets. The 165mm option is ideal for tighter spaces, while the 180mm version gives more balance for longer rides. Pairing these trucks with softer, larger wheels (70–75mm, 78a–80a) helps you roll smoothly over rough roads and cracks.

My Experience

I’ve used the Paris V3s for city commuting, and they’re incredibly reliable. I run 180mm with 74mm wheels and barely feel rough pavement. Their turning is fluid, and I can easily dodge pedestrians or curb edges. For anyone who needs dependable trucks for daily rides, these are one of the most comfortable choices out there.

Caliber III 184mm (44° or 50°)

Caliber III trucks are built for durability and predictability—two things every commuter needs. The 50° version is great for tighter turns, while the 44° offers extra stability on longer pushes or slight downhill slopes. These trucks also have an improved bushing seat that works well with many aftermarket bushings. They’re strong, reliable, and ready for rough city riding.

My Experience

I’ve tried both angles of the Caliber III for commuting. The 44° is my go-to when I’m pushing for long distances—it’s stable and easy to control. The 50° is snappier for quick turns. I also like how easy it is to swap bushings to match different setups. These trucks can take a beating and still feel smooth.

Best Longboard Trucks for Freestyle

Freestyle longboarding is all about creativity. It includes tricks, slides, dancing moves, and cruising—all in one. To ride freestyle, you need trucks that are tough, responsive, and give you enough room to move without your wheels hitting the board.

Durability is super important because landing tricks puts a lot of stress on your trucks. They should be strong enough to handle hard impacts. You also need responsive trucks that can turn quickly and handle fast pivots, shuvits, and other flatground moves.

Good clearance is key too. You need space to carve and slide without wheelbite. Most freestyle riders prefer RKP (Reverse Kingpin) trucks, as they give a good mix of turning and stability for all kinds of tricks.

Go for mid-to-wide hangers; around 165mm to 180mm. They offer stability when landing and make it easier to control your board. Higher baseplate angles, between 48° and 50°, also help by making your setup feel more playful and quick to turn, perfect for freestyle fun.

Gullwing Charger II 10″ (183mm) 50° Trucks

Gullwing Charger II trucks are built strong and respond quickly, making them perfect for freestyle riders who push their gear hard. Their geometry offers a lively, fun ride and a solid platform for experimenting with new tricks. Keeping pivot cups in good shape is important for maintaining the truck’s sharp responsiveness.

My Experience

I’ve found the Gullwing Charger II trucks to be excellent for freestyle due to their durability and quick turning response. They feel playful and allow me to try new tricks with confidence. Regularly checking and replacing pivot cups keeps these trucks performing at their best, ensuring smooth and precise movements during freestyle runs.

Narrower Freestyle Deck Trucks (7.25″–7.4″ wide)

For narrow freestyle decks, trucks like Paris 108, Independent 109, Film 4.25, Tracker Fultracks, Sure Grip Invaders, and Bear 105s are top picks. These trucks provide excellent rail stability and responsiveness suited for smaller decks, helping riders perform precise tricks and maintain control. Their compact size ensures the perfect fit and balance for narrow freestyle boards.

My Experience

When riding narrower decks, I prefer these trucks because they give me tight control and quick response, which is essential for technical freestyle tricks. The rail stability they offer helps me stay balanced during slides and manual combos. If you want to maximize your performance on smaller freestyle setups, these trucks are definitely worth trying.

Wider Freestyle Deck Trucks (Around 7.6″ wide)

For wider freestyle decks, Independent 129 trucks are often recommended. Though wider decks may need riser pads to optimize rail stability, these trucks provide solid support and durable construction. They allow smooth, controlled turning and give enough room for stable landings during freestyle tricks.

My Experience

I’ve ridden wider decks with Independent 129 trucks and found that with the right risers, the stability improves greatly. The trucks handle quick pivots and spins well, making them suitable for freestyle that demands both balance and responsiveness. For riders using wider decks, this setup feels reliable for dynamic trick work.

Best Longboard Trucks for Carving

Carving is all about smooth, flowing turns and building speed by pumping. To get that surf-like feeling, you need trucks that turn deeply, bounce back well, and lean smoothly through each carve.

Deep, fluid turns are the most important feature for carving. Your trucks should allow you to link turns easily and keep that rhythm going. You also want excellent rebound, so you can pump out of each turn and keep your speed without pushing. A smooth and steady lean helps your board feel natural and controlled during every carve.

Both RKP (Reverse Kingpin) and DKP (Double Kingpin) trucks work well for carving. RKPs are great for control and flow, while DKPs give the deepest, surfiest turns. For more control and power in your turns, choose mid-to-wide hangers (150mm to 180mm). Lastly, higher baseplate angles (48°–50°) help your board turn quicker and feel more responsive.

Caliber II 50° 184mm Trucks

Caliber II 50° trucks are often praised for stability but also excel at carving. They offer controlled, predictable lean, helping riders push confidently into deep turns. Their strong construction ensures durability even during aggressive carving. For a lively yet stable ride, many combine a softer cone bushing on top with a barrel bushing on the bottom to balance responsiveness and support.

My Experience

In my rides, Caliber II 50° trucks give me solid control for carving, especially when I want precision without sacrificing stability. The bushing combo I use offers a perfect balance of lean and support, so I can push hard in turns without feeling wobbly. These trucks are tough and perform consistently, making them a favorite when I need reliability in urban carving.

Gullwing Sidewinder II Trucks

Gullwing Sidewinder II trucks stand out with their double kingpin (DKP) design, offering a huge turning radius and surf-like carving experience. They’re perfect for tight carves and pumping but aren’t as stable at high speeds compared to RKP trucks, so they’re best for carving rather than downhill. Due to their extra lean, wheelbite can be an issue, so riser pads and bigger wheels are recommended.

My Experience

I enjoy using Gullwing Sidewinder II trucks when I want the feel of surfing on pavement. Their extreme turning radius lets me carve sharply and pump smoothly, making tight turns effortless. However, I stay cautious at higher speeds because they aren’t as stable as my RKP trucks. Adding riser pads and picking the right wheels helped me avoid wheelbite during aggressive sessions.

How Longboard Trucks Are Made

Longboard trucks are made in three main ways. Each way changes how strong they are, how they feel, and how much they cost.

Cast trucks are made by pouring hot metal into a mold. They are the cheapest and great for beginners. Brands like Paris and Caliber make good cast trucks.

Cold-forged trucks are made by pressing metal into shape. They are stronger and last longer than cast trucks. They cost more but ride better. Aera RF-1 and Paris Savant are cold-forged.

Precision trucks are cut from solid metal using special machines. They are super strong and smooth, perfect for fast and serious riding. Brands like Aera and Rogue make them. They cost the most.

How trucks are made affects their strength, cost, and feel. Cast trucks are good for everyday use. Cold-forged trucks are stronger and better for harder riding. Precision trucks are for people who want top performance and control, especially at high speeds

Choosing the Right Longboard Trucks

Your trucks should match the width of your board. This helps you stay balanced and stops wheel bite (when wheels hit the board while turning). If your board is under 8.5 inches wide, use 150mm trucks. If it’s 8.5 to 10.5 inches wide or more, go with 180mm trucks. Wider trucks are more stable, great for downhill. Narrower trucks turn quicker, good for carving or city riding.

The baseplate angle affects how your board turns. High angles (50–60°) turn fast, perfect for cruising and carving. Medium angles (45–50°) balance turning and control. Low angles (40–45°) feel more stable, better for fast downhill riding.

Bushings are the soft parts inside trucks that help you turn. Softer bushings turn more easily but are less stable. Harder bushings are more stable but harder to turn. Light riders should use soft bushings. Heavy riders or fast riders should go with harder ones.

Advanced riders fine-tune their trucks. Some use harder bushings on the board side and softer ones on the road side for both control and turning. Others use two barrel bushings for better stability at high speeds.

Longboard Truck Maintenance Tips

Taking care of your longboard trucks helps your ride stay smooth and your gear last longer. First, check and tighten all nuts and bolts often because they can get loose from riding. Use a skate tool but don’t tighten too much, especially near the bushings.

Clean your bushings and pivot cups regularly. Wipe off dirt and use rubbing alcohol on the pivot cup to keep it moving well. Add a little silicone lubricant to the pivot point to keep things quiet and smooth.

Look over your trucks for cracks or damage, especially after big falls or downhill rides. If you see uneven wear, try flipping or rotating the hangers to make them last longer.

If your bushings look cracked or squished, replace them. Pick the right hardness, soft for cruising and carving, hard for stability and downhill.

Keep axle nuts clean and replace them if the threads are worn. Don’t ride in the rain if you can because water causes rust and damages parts. If your trucks get wet, dry them well and add some lubricant.

After putting on new trucks or bushings, check and tighten everything again after a few rides since bushings settle in.

Finally, store your longboard in a dry, cool place to avoid rust and damage.

Final Thoughts: Make Your Setup Yours

The perfect longboard setup is personal. The more you ride, the more you’ll notice what feels good and what doesn’t. Every rider is different, so the best setup is the one that fits you. Whether you’re dancing, commuting, carving, or going downhill, your trucks are the heart of the ride.

Use wedges, split angles, and bushing combos to make your board feel exactly how you want it. And don’t forget to check your gear often. A little maintenance goes a long way for smooth, safe, and fun rides.

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