How to Measure Skateboard Trucks (2026)
Trucks should match your deck's width. Here's how to measure axle and hanger width, decode brand sizes and choose the right trucks.
Why Measuring Matters
Trucks that match your deck feel stable and predictable. If they're too narrow, the board feels twitchy and your feet sit outside the wheelbase. If they're too wide, wheels stick out and the board feels clumsy. The goal is to have the axle width close to your deck width.
Axle Width vs Hanger Width
| Measurement | What It Is | How to Measure |
|---|---|---|
| Axle width | Total width from axle end to axle end | Measure across the axle tips |
| Hanger width | Width of the metal hanger only | Measure across the hanger |
| Height | Baseplate to axle | Check the brand's low/mid/high |
How to Measure
- Remove the wheels for an accurate reading (optional).
- Measure axle width from the tip of one axle to the other in inches or millimeters.
- Measure hanger width across the hanger.
- Measure your deck width at its widest point.
- Compare with the brand's size chart.
Decoding Brand Sizes
Brands use their own names. Independent, for example, labels trucks with numbers like 139, 144 and 149, while other brands use inch-based labels. Each brand publishes a chart showing which deck widths each size suits, so always check it.
Independent Stage 11
Popular, durable trucks in several sizes. Check the listing's size chart.
Check Price on AmazonThunder Hollow Lights
A lighter truck with a hollow axle. Check sizes on the listing.
Check Price on AmazonMatching Trucks to Your Deck
- Pick the size whose axle width is closest to your deck width.
- When between sizes, many skaters go slightly narrower for flip tricks and slightly wider for stability.
- Consider height too; see high vs low trucks.
Truck Height and Wheel Size
Truck height affects how big your wheels can be before they rub the deck. As a general guide from SkatePro:
| Height | Approx. Height | Max Wheel Without Risers |
|---|---|---|
| Low | About 46–49mm | About 53mm |
| Mid | About 49.5–53.5mm | About 56mm |
| High | About 53.5–60mm | Larger wheels; more clearance |
Higher trucks also give a slightly steeper pop. See high vs low trucks.
Installing Trucks
- Push four bolts down through the deck's mounting holes from the grip side.
- Fit the truck baseplate (kingpins facing the center of the board).
- Thread the nuts on and tighten in a cross pattern so the baseplate seats evenly.
- Stop when the bolt heads sit flush with the grip tape.
Damaged Axle Threads
Axles are threaded at the ends. Many skate T-tools include a thread chaser for re-threading damaged axles; if it won't fix the threads, replace the truck.
Longboard Trucks Are Different
Longboards often use reverse kingpin trucks measured by hanger width in millimeters. See longboard trucks and the longboard size guide.
Next: set your truck tightness and build your skateboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I measure skateboard trucks?
Measure the axle width from the outer end of one axle to the other, or the hanger width across the hanger. Brands list one or both.
What size trucks do I need?
Choose trucks whose axle width is close to your deck width, so the wheels sit near the deck's edges.
What do truck numbers like 139 or 149 mean?
They're brand-specific size names (for example, Independent uses numbers like 139, 144 and 149). Check the brand's chart for the matching deck width.
Can trucks be wider than my deck?
A little is fine for some skaters; too wide feels clumsy and wheels can stick out. Too narrow feels twitchy.
How do I measure truck height?
From the bottom of the baseplate to the center of the axle, or check the brand's low/mid/high label.