Independent Trucks
Independent Trucks represents the unwavering foundation of skateboarding's mechanical excellence, engineered specifically to deliver the perfect balance of durability, precision, and legendary performance that transformed skateboard hardware from basic components into professional-grade equipment trusted by generations of riders. Independent Trucks UK has evolved from 1978 Santa Cruz rebellion to global skateboard authority featuring Stage 11 innovations, hollow forged construction, and designs that capture the essence of skateboarding's demand for equipment that can withstand any abuse while maintaining responsive performance. Like skateboarding itself, Independent design holds reliability and craftsmanship at its core, creating essential hardware that bridges technical advancement with time-tested construction while maintaining genuine connection to the professional skaters and crews that define skateboarding excellence. Shop the finest in skateboard truck technology from Independent Trucks.
Revolutionary since 1978 and constantly evolving with skateboard progression, Independent Trucks represents the most significant advancement in skateboard hardware reliability and performance innovation. What started as Richard Novak, Jay Shuirman, Fausto Vitello, and Eric Swenson's response to inferior truck options from Bennett and Tracker has transformed into skateboarding's most trusted hardware featuring legendary durability, precise geometry, and team riders who represent skateboarding's elite talent across all disciplines. From their groundbreaking Stage 1 that established new standards for turning and grinding performance to contemporary Stage 11 models featuring forged hollow construction and titanium options, every authentic Independent truck combines cutting-edge engineering with skateboarding DNA. Whether you're after their legendary 149 size that revolutionised street skating performance or contemporary Forged Hollow models featuring 10% weight reduction without sacrificing strength, Independent transforms your skating while providing the reliability, precision, and professional credibility that serious skateboarding demands, created by skaters who understand that great hardware should enhance rather than limit skateboard progression and creative expression.
Independent Trucks Brand History & Evolution
Back in 1978, when the skateboard truck market was dominated by Bennett trucks that turned well but broke constantly and Tracker trucks that were durable but steered poorly, four Santa Cruz skaters recognised the urgent need for hardware that could satisfy skateboarding's evolving technical demands without forcing riders to choose between performance and reliability. Richard Novak and Jay Shuirman brought distribution experience through their company, while Fausto Vitello provided industry connections through Thrasher Magazine, and Eric Swenson contributed technical expertise, creating the perfect combination of business acumen and skateboard authenticity necessary to challenge established manufacturers. Their first product, the Stage 1 truck, debuted on May 23, 1978, in Newark, California, featuring aluminium alloy construction, precision geometry, and durability standards that immediately set new benchmarks for skateboard hardware performance while maintaining the turning characteristics essential for progressive skating. The revolutionary design philosophy combined the best attributes of existing trucks while eliminating their fatal flaws, creating hardware that could handle the aggressive pool skating and emerging street disciplines that were pushing skateboard equipment beyond its previous limits. Team development occurred rapidly through genuine relationships within skateboarding communities, with riders like Brad Bowman, Steve Olson, Steve Rocco, Tony Alva, and Christian Hosoi choosing Independent based on performance rather than financial incentives, establishing credibility that attracted skateboarding's most respected professionals. The iconic cross logo designed by Jim Phillips in 1979 became one of skateboarding's most recognisable symbols, originally based on the "surfer's cross" variant of the Iron Cross but accepted after Phillips pointed to Pope John Paul II's regalia, creating brand identity that perfectly captured skateboarding's rebellious spirit while avoiding controversial associations. Stage progression through Roman numerals marked genuine technological advancement rather than simple cosmetic changes, with Stage II introducing extra-wide sizes for enhanced stability, Stage III through V incorporating reinforcements and anodised colour options, and subsequent stages addressing specific performance improvements requested by professional team riders. The company's commitment to American manufacturing through exclusive partnerships with foundries dedicated solely to skateboard truck production ensured quality control and performance consistency that mass-production competitors couldn't match while supporting domestic skateboard industry infrastructure. Team expansion through the 1980s and 1990s included skateboarding legends like Danny Way, Steve Caballero, Tommy Guerrero, Jeff Grosso, and Andrew Reynolds, creating a roster that represented every discipline of skateboarding while maintaining authentic relationships based on mutual respect rather than purely commercial arrangements. The Stage 11 development in 2012 marked Independent's return to the beloved geometry of Stages V through VII while incorporating contemporary materials and construction techniques, proving that innovation could enhance rather than replace time-tested designs that had earned professional trust through decades of proven performance. Modern team additions including Luan Oliveira, Louie Lopez, Aaron 'Jaws' Homoki, Grant Taylor, and international riders like Daan Van Der Linden demonstrate Independent's continued relevance across global skateboard culture while maintaining selection standards based on skateboarding excellence rather than social media metrics or demographic targeting. Recent innovations including Forged Hollow construction that reduces weight by 10% without sacrificing strength and Titanium options that achieve 15% weight reduction show Independent's commitment to advancing skateboard hardware while preserving the reliability and performance characteristics that have made them skateboarding's most trusted truck manufacturer. From those early Santa Cruz workshop days to today's position as skateboard hardware's unquestioned leader, Independent Trucks has grown by consistently maintaining their commitment to quality construction, professional rider collaboration, and that distinctive approach to business that serves skateboarding progression rather than simply selling hardware to casual consumers who don't understand the difference between adequate and exceptional skateboard equipment.
Key Features & Construction
What separates Independent Trucks from generic skateboard hardware comes down to specific construction elements and engineering philosophy developed through genuine understanding of professional skateboarding demands rather than cost-cutting manufacturing processes. Premium Independent trucks feature 356 T6 aluminium hangers and baseplates that provide optimal strength-to-weight ratios, 4140 chromoly steel axles that resist bending and breaking under extreme grinding abuse, and Grade 8 kingpins that maintain precise geometry through repeated impact and adjustment. Modern Stage 11 construction incorporates geometry improvements from legendary Stages V through VII while adding contemporary enhancements including improved turning radius, enhanced stability during landings and high-speed situations, reduced wheel bite potential, and superior grind clearance that accommodates modern street skating demands. The manufacturing process utilises precision foundry techniques through partnerships with facilities dedicated exclusively to skateboard truck production, ensuring consistent quality control and performance characteristics that mass-production competitors cannot achieve while maintaining American manufacturing standards that support domestic skateboard industry infrastructure. Contemporary innovations including Forged Hollow construction combine cold-forged baseplates with hollow axles and kingpins to achieve 10% weight reduction without compromising strength or durability, while Titanium options provide 15% weight savings with enhanced strength-to-weight ratios for riders who prioritise performance optimisation. Quality details include precision-machined pivot cups that maintain consistent turning characteristics, premium urethane bushings that provide responsive steering while resisting deformation, and axle nut and speed washer combinations that prevent loosening during aggressive skating sessions. The sizing system accommodates every skateboard width from 7.35" to 9.0" through hanger widths ranging from 129mm to 215mm, allowing precise matching between truck width and deck dimensions for optimal performance rather than forcing riders to accept compromise solutions that affect skating quality. Professional model development includes signature editions for riders like Tom Knox featuring custom graphics and colourways while maintaining identical construction standards that ensure professional performance rather than simply cosmetic differentiation that doesn't enhance skateboard functionality. Height options including Standard (55mm), Mid (53.5mm), and Low profiles serve different skating styles and wheel size preferences, with each option maintaining Independent's geometry standards while accommodating specific performance requirements for street, transition, or hybrid skateboarding approaches. Whether featuring classic Stage 11 construction for proven reliability or contemporary Forged Hollow innovations for weight-conscious performance, authentic Independent trucks represent the intersection of precision engineering, skateboard functionality, and decades of construction refinement by engineers who understand that great skateboard hardware should enhance rather than limit professional skateboard performance and creative expression possibilities.
Independent Trucks Skate Team
The Independent Trucks team represents skateboarding's elite talent across all disciplines, featuring riders who embody technical mastery, creative innovation, and authentic commitment to skateboard progression rather than purely commercial considerations.
Andrew Reynolds:
Legendary street skating icon whose technical precision and video contributions have defined contemporary skateboarding. His long-term commitment to Independent demonstrates the brand's ability to support elite professionals throughout entire career progressions while maintaining authentic relationships based on mutual respect.
Luan Oliveira:
Brazilian street skating phenomenon whose technical abilities and international perspective represent Independent's global reach. His transition from amateur to professional status through Independent support showcases the brand's commitment to developing authentic talent rather than simply recruiting established names.
Aaron "Jaws" Homoki:
Fearless big-stair specialist whose extreme approach to street obstacles demonstrates Independent's durability under the most punishing skateboard conditions. His legendary drops and technical abilities prove that Independent hardware can handle any abuse while maintaining performance characteristics.
Grant Taylor:
Versatile skater whose abilities span street, transition, and pool disciplines. His approach to diverse skateboard terrains showcases Independent's capability across all skating styles while maintaining consistent performance standards that serve professional demands.
Louie Lopez:
Creative street skater whose video contributions and technical progression represent contemporary skateboard evolution. His development through Independent sponsorship demonstrates the brand's continued relevance within current skateboard culture and talent development.
Daan Van Der Linden:
European street skating talent whose international perspective brings global credibility to Independent's roster. His technical abilities and creative spot selection demonstrate how Independent attracts exceptional skateboarding regardless of geographical boundaries or regional preferences.
Tom Knox:
Contemporary street skater whose signature Independent model showcases the brand's commitment to genuine rider collaboration. His technical precision and creative approach perfectly embody Independent's philosophy of supporting authentic skateboard talent through quality hardware and professional respect.
Independent Trucks Models
Explore our comprehensive range of Independent Trucks UK at The Vines Supply Co., featuring legendary durability, precision engineering, and professional performance that represents the finest in skateboard hardware.
Independent Stage 11 Standard Trucks:
The flagship model featuring 55mm height, proven geometry from beloved Stage V-VII designs, and construction improvements that enhance turning, stability, and grind clearance. Available in sizes 129-215 with professional-grade materials and lifetime guarantee coverage.
Independent Stage 11 Forged Hollow Trucks:
Advanced lightweight construction featuring cold-forged baseplates, hollow axles and kingpins for 10% weight reduction without sacrificing strength. These 53.5mm height trucks provide enhanced performance for riders prioritising weight savings and responsive feel.
Independent Stage 11 Mid Trucks:
Balanced 53.5mm height construction that bridges street and transition performance requirements. These trucks provide enhanced grind clearance while maintaining stability characteristics essential for diverse skateboarding styles and technical progression.
Indy Stage 11 Titanium Trucks:
Premium lightweight construction featuring titanium components for 15% weight reduction with enhanced strength-to-weight ratios. These represent Independent's most advanced hardware for professional riders demanding ultimate performance without compromising durability.
Professional Signature Models:
Custom graphics and colourways for riders like Tom Knox while maintaining identical construction standards. These models provide personalised aesthetics without compromising the professional performance characteristics that define authentic Independent hardware.
Independent Trucks Buying Guide
Choosing Independent Trucks depends on your skateboarding style, performance priorities, and understanding of professional hardware standards developed through decades of elite rider collaboration. For authentic professional performance, focus on Stage 11 Standard trucks that showcase proven geometry, lifetime guarantee coverage, and construction quality that handles serious skateboarding while maintaining precise turning characteristics essential for technical progression. Consider sizing carefully as proper truck-to-deck matching affects performance significantly, with 139s for 7.75-8.25" decks, 149s for 8.25-8.75" boards, and 159s for 8.6-9.0" widths providing optimal stability and turning response. Construction options serve different performance priorities, Standard models for proven reliability across all skating styles, Forged Hollow for 10% weight reduction without strength compromise, and Mid trucks for enhanced grind clearance essential for technical street skating approaches. Quality matters significantly with Independent, premium materials and American manufacturing justify pricing through superior durability, professional performance standards, and lifetime guarantee coverage that demonstrates genuine confidence in construction quality rather than planned obsolescence approaches. Height selection affects wheel compatibility and performance characteristics, Standard 55mm for larger wheels and transition skating, Mid 53.5mm for street-focused setups with enhanced grind clearance, and consideration of riser pads when running larger wheel sizes to prevent wheel bite issues. Professional model choices should align with individual skating preferences rather than simply following favourite riders, though signature models maintain identical performance characteristics while offering personalised aesthetics that connect to specific professional influences and skateboard culture appreciation. Team rider influence provides insight into performance characteristics through professional feedback that shapes design improvements, with riders like Andrew Reynolds representing street reliability, Aaron Jaws demonstrating extreme durability, and Grant Taylor showcasing versatility across multiple skateboard disciplines. Cultural context enhances appreciation, understanding Independent's role in establishing skateboard hardware standards, their influence on professional skateboarding development, and their commitment to American manufacturing creates deeper connection to authentic skateboard industry heritage and quality craftsmanship values. Consider long-term investment value through supporting genuinely American-made skateboard hardware, products that maintain professional performance standards through consistent quality control, and brands that prioritise skateboard progression over purely commercial considerations or trend-driven fashion approaches. Most importantly, choose Independent Trucks when you value professional performance standards, legendary durability, and hardware developed through genuine collaboration with elite skaters who understand that great trucks should enhance rather than limit skateboard progression and provide reliable foundation for creative expression regardless of skating style or technical demands.
Independent Trucks FAQs
What makes Independent different from other truck manufacturers? Independent combines 46 years of skateboard-specific engineering with American manufacturing, premium materials like 356 T6 aluminium and 4140 chromoly steel, and lifetime guarantee coverage. Their Stage progression represents genuine innovation through professional rider feedback rather than cosmetic changes.
How do I choose the correct Independent truck size? Match hanger width to your deck width: 139 trucks for 7.75-8.25" decks, 149 for 8.25-8.75", and 159 for 8.6-9.0". Proper sizing ensures optimal turning response and stability while maintaining professional performance characteristics developed through elite rider testing.
What is the difference between Stage 11 construction options? Standard offers proven 55mm geometry with maximum durability, Forged Hollow provides 10% weight reduction through hollow axles and forged baseplates, Mid trucks offer 53.5mm height for enhanced grind clearance, and Titanium achieves 15% weight savings with premium materials.
Are Independent trucks worth the premium pricing? Yes, Independent justifies cost through American manufacturing, premium materials, lifetime guarantee coverage, and professional performance standards. The durability and consistent quality provide long-term value compared to cheaper alternatives that require frequent replacement.
What does the lifetime guarantee cover? Independent guarantees their trucks against manufacturing defects for the life of the product when used for skateboarding. This demonstrates genuine confidence in construction quality and provides protection for serious skaters who demand reliable equipment performance.
How has Independent influenced skateboard culture? Independent established professional hardware standards, supported legendary riders across all skating disciplines, and created the iconic cross logo that became synonymous with authentic skateboarding. Their "Built to Grind" philosophy reflects skateboarding's demands for equipment reliability.
Which Independent model should I choose for street skating? Stage 11 Mid trucks provide optimal street performance through 53.5mm height for enhanced grind clearance, proven geometry for technical tricks, and construction durability for rail and ledge abuse. Forged Hollow options add weight savings for flip trick responsiveness.
Shop our complete Independent Trucks collection, featuring legendary durability, precision engineering, and professional performance from skateboard hardware's most trusted manufacturer. Enjoy fast, free UK premium delivery on orders over £70, with free next-day delivery available for orders placed before 4pm.