Independent Trucks

About Independent Trucks

Independent Truck Company has been making skateboard trucks since 1978 and is one of the most established names in skate hardware.

Over the years, Independent has developed a wide range of trucks for different types of skating, including classic Stage 11s, lighter Hollow and Forged Hollow models, lower Mid trucks and Stage 4s.

They're known for being tough, reliable and built to take a proper beating.

What Size Independent Trucks Do I Need?

The main thing is matching the axle width of your trucks as closely as possible to the width of your skateboard deck.

As a quick guide:

129 - decks around 7.4" - 7.8"

139 - decks around 7.8" - 8.2"

144 - decks around 8.2" - 8.375"

149 - decks around 8.375" - 8.6"

159 - decks around 8.6" - 9.0"

169 - decks around 9.0" - 9.5"

215 - decks around 9.5" - 10.5"

For the most common setups, we'd usually look at 144s for an 8.25" deck, 149s for an 8.5" deck and 159s for an 8.75" deck.

It doesn't have to be absolutely exact, so if your deck sits between two sizes, either can work depending on how you like your setup to feel.

Independent Standard vs Hollow vs Forged Hollow

Independent makes several versions of its trucks, with the main difference being weight and construction.

Standard trucks are the classic option, using a solid axle and kingpin.

Hollow trucks use a hollow axle and hollow kingpin to cut down some weight while keeping the familiar Independent feel.

Forged Hollow trucks use a forged baseplate alongside a hollow axle and kingpin, making them lighter again and slightly lower than the standard version.

Independent also produces Forged Titanium trucks, which use a titanium axle to reduce even more weight.

You don't necessarily need the lightest option. Standard Indys are still a great choice, while Hollow and Forged Hollow models are ideal if you prefer a lighter setup.

Independent Stage 11, Stage 4 & Mid Trucks

Stage 11 is Independent's main all-round truck and the model most skaters will be familiar with. It's designed to work across street, park, transition and pretty much everything in between.

Stage 4 trucks use a different hanger design inspired by an older Independent shape. They're a good option if you want something with a slightly different turn and feel, particularly on wider or shaped setups.

Independent Mid trucks sit lower than standard Stage 11s and use an inverted kingpin for extra clearance. They're aimed more towards technical street skating and anyone who prefers a lower setup.

Independent Trucks at The Vines

Independent is one of those brands that always has a place in a proper skate shop.

We stock a changing selection of Independent skateboard trucks, including Stage 11, Hollow, Forged Hollow and other models across popular deck widths.

If you're not sure which size or model will suit your setup, give us a shout and we'll help you match the right trucks to your board.