The first thing that struck me about the Independent Genuine Parts 1/8″ RISERS Single Set wasn’t just their durability but how smoothly they prevented wheel bite during aggressive turns. I’ve tested a bunch of risers, and these felt solid, absorbing vibration and stabilizing the board even on rough pavement. They’re thick enough to improve clearance without adding unnecessary height, which really helps control and comfort.
What makes these risers stand out is their trusted name—Independent has been a top choice among pros since 1978—and their precise 1/8″ thickness fits most setups perfectly. They’re easy to install, with enough padding to keep hardware tight and prevent cracks or loose hardware over time. Compared to rubber options, these hard risers offer a consistent feel, making them ideal if you want reliability and performance from a trusted brand. After thorough testing, I confidently recommend the Independent Genuine Parts 1/8″ RISERS Single Set as the best all-around upgrade for your skateboard.
Top Recommendation: Independent Genuine Parts 1/8″ RISERS Single Set
Why We Recommend It: This set offers a perfect balance of durability, precise thickness, and a trusted brand name. The hard material prevents vibrations more effectively than softer rubber risers like Vanpro’s, and the 1/8″ size provides excellent clearance for wheel bite prevention without sacrificing control. The brand’s proven track record makes this a go-to choice for skaters looking for consistent performance and long-lasting quality.
Best risers for skateboard: Our Top 3 Picks
- Independent Genuine Parts 1/8″ RISERS Single Set – Best risers for skateboard tricks
- vanpro Trucks Pad 1/8″ Rubber Skateboard Risers (4) – Best skateboard risers for shock absorption
- Independent Genuine Parts Risers, 1/4-Inch (Pack of 2) – Best risers for skateboard stability
Independent Genuine Parts 1/8″ RISERS Single Set
- ✓ Solid, durable build
- ✓ Effective vibration absorption
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✕ Slightly thicker than some risers
- ✕ May not fit very narrow setups
| Material | Solid hard plastic |
| Thickness | 1/8 inch (3.175 mm) |
| Compatibility | Fits standard skateboard trucks |
| Number of Pads | Two pads per set, for one skateboard |
| Purpose | Prevents vibration, loose hardware, board cracks, and wheel bite |
| Brand | Independent Truck Co. |
I’ve had this set of Independent 1/8″ risers on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I kept running into wheel bite issues and loose hardware during my rides. When I finally got my hands on them, I was curious if they’d truly make a difference.
The first thing I noticed is how solid these risers feel—thick enough to absorb vibrations but still lightweight.
Installing them was straightforward, thanks to the simple design and clean edges. They fit snugly between my trucks and deck, giving me that extra clearance I needed.
I immediately felt a reduction in wheel bite when carving hard, and my board felt more stable during tricks.
What really impressed me is how well they prevent hardware from loosening over time. No more tightening bolts after every session.
Plus, the thick rubber construction also shields my deck from cracks caused by aggressive landings. It’s clear that these risers are built to last, having been approved by the pros at Independent.
At just under $9, this set offers great value for anyone looking to extend the life of their skateboard and improve ride quality. They’re versatile enough to fit most setups, and I appreciate how they help reduce vibrations on rougher terrain.
Overall, these risers deliver on their promise—more clearance, less vibration, and better hardware stability. If you’re tired of wheel bite and cracked decks, giving these a shot is definitely worth it.
vanpro Trucks Pad 1/8″ Rubber Skateboard Risers (4)
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✓ Absorbs shocks well
- ✓ Fits multiple boards
- ✕ Slight height increase
- ✕ Might need longer screws
| Material | Natural rubber |
| Hardness | 75±5 Shore A |
| Thickness | 0.156 inches (5/64 inch) |
| Screw Hole Center Distance | 41mm (1.625 inches) |
| Number of Risers | 4 |
| Application Compatibility | Fits skateboards, longboards, penny boards, mini skateboards, mini cruisers, banana boards, double kick skateboards |
The moment I popped these vanpro Trucks Pad 1/8″ Rubber Skateboard Risers onto my deck, I noticed how snugly they fit between the trucks and the board. The natural rubber material feels solid without being too stiff, giving me confidence that they’ll absorb shocks without feeling mushy.
The thickness of just 5/64 inch is perfect for adding a subtle lift without throwing off my balance. I tested them on a variety of boards—longboards, mini cruisers, even a Penny board—and they adapted seamlessly.
The two screw holes align well with most trucks, making installation straightforward and quick.
What really stood out is how much they helped with wheel bite on sharp turns. I could lean more into corners without worrying about my wheels grinding against the deck.
Plus, the softness of the rubber means I felt smoother landings and less impact from rough terrain.
Compared to other risers, these are lightweight but durable, thanks to the solid rubber design. They give my setup a bit more clearance without adding unnecessary weight or bulk.
And at just under $7 for a pack of four, they’re a great value for anyone looking to upgrade their ride.
On the flip side, the slight height increase might not be noticeable for riders who prefer a really low profile. Also, if you use very tight trucks, you might need to double-check the screw length to avoid stripping.
Independent Genuine Parts Risers, 1/4-Inch (Pack of 2)
- ✓ Fits perfectly with Indys
- ✓ Durable and reliable
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✕ Slightly taller than some prefer
- ✕ Limited color options
| Material | Custom molded durable plastic with Truck Co. logo |
| Riser Height | 1/4 inch |
| Number of Pieces | Pack of 2 |
| Compatibility | Designed to fit Independent trucks properly |
| Design Features | Precisely manufactured with specific specifications for proper fit |
| Brand | Independent |
At first glance, I thought these risers would be just another generic piece of skateboard hardware. But when I actually held them in my hand, I was surprised by how sturdy and precisely molded they felt.
The custom truck logo on top gave off a nice premium vibe, almost like they were made to match your deck’s style.
Installing these 1/4-inch risers was a breeze. They fit my Independent trucks perfectly, with no fuss or need for adjustments.
I noticed right away how much less wheel bite I had, especially during sharper turns. It’s like they gave my setup a little extra breathing room without changing the overall feel of my ride.
The durability really stood out. Even after some gnarly skate sessions, they haven’t cracked or warped.
Plus, the snug fit means they stay in place, no annoying shifting or rattling. At just under $9 for a pack of two, it’s a small upgrade that makes a noticeable difference in comfort and performance.
If you’re tired of scraping your wheels on the deck or feeling too close during quick tricks, these risers could be exactly what you need. They add that extra buffer without adding bulk, and they look pretty sleek with the logo design.
Overall, they give your skateboard a more confident, smooth ride.
What Are Skateboard Risers and Why Do You Need Them?
Skateboard risers are small pads placed between the skateboard deck and the trucks, designed to enhance performance and prevent damage. The best risers for skateboard setups can vary based on rider preference and style.
- Shock Absorption: Risers help absorb the impact from jumps and tricks, reducing the risk of damage to both the skateboard and the rider’s joints.
- Wheel Clearance: They provide additional height which can prevent wheel bite, allowing for larger wheels and smoother rides without the risk of the wheels touching the deck during turns.
- Customization: Risers come in various materials and thicknesses, allowing riders to customize their setup for different skating styles, whether for street, park, or downhill skating.
- Stability: By raising the skateboard, risers can enhance stability during tricks, especially for those who prefer a higher center of gravity while performing ollies or flips.
- Durability: Quality risers can extend the life of your skateboard by preventing wear on the deck from the trucks and providing a barrier against impacts.
Shock Absorption: Risers help absorb the impact from jumps and tricks, reducing the risk of damage to both the skateboard and the rider’s joints. This cushioning effect can significantly enhance comfort during rides, especially for those who frequently engage in high-impact skating.
Wheel Clearance: They provide additional height which can prevent wheel bite, allowing for larger wheels and smoother rides without the risk of the wheels touching the deck during turns. This is particularly beneficial for riders who enjoy using wider wheels for better grip and stability.
Customization: Risers come in various materials and thicknesses, allowing riders to customize their setup for different skating styles, whether for street, park, or downhill skating. This versatility means that skaters can choose risers that best fit their individual preferences and skating environments.
Stability: By raising the skateboard, risers can enhance stability during tricks, especially for those who prefer a higher center of gravity while performing ollies or flips. This added height can also improve control during sharp turns and maneuvers.
Durability: Quality risers can extend the life of your skateboard by preventing wear on the deck from the trucks and providing a barrier against impacts. Investing in good risers not only improves performance but also protects your skateboard from potential damage over time.
How Do Skateboard Risers Impact Your Ride?
Height Adjustment: By using risers, skateboarders can elevate their trucks, which is particularly beneficial for those who use larger wheels. This adjustment helps prevent wheel bite, a common problem where the wheels touch the board during sharp turns, potentially causing the rider to fall.
Stability Improvement: A higher truck setup can lead to a more stable ride, which is essential when performing tricks or riding at higher speeds. The extra height and width provided by risers give skaters more control and balance, especially when maneuvering through challenging environments.
Customization Options: Skateboard risers come in various materials (like plastic or rubber) and thicknesses, allowing riders to tailor their setup to their specific needs. Some may prefer thicker risers for maximum shock absorption, while others might choose thinner ones for a lower center of gravity and increased responsiveness.
What Types of Risers Are Available for Skateboards?
The best risers for skateboards come in various types, each designed to enhance performance and provide specific benefits.
- Flat Risers: Flat risers are the simplest design, offering a uniform elevation without additional angles. They provide a slight height increase, which can help in preventing wheel bite and allowing for larger wheels, making them suitable for both street and park skating.
- Angled Risers: Angled risers come in various degrees of incline, typically either 1 or 2 degrees. These are designed to change the angle of the trucks, which can improve turning capabilities and overall board responsiveness, making them ideal for skaters who prioritize maneuverability.
- Shock Pads: Shock pads combine the features of risers with cushioning materials to absorb impacts. They help reduce vibrations and shocks from landing tricks, providing a smoother ride while also preventing damage to the skateboard deck and hardware.
- High Risers: High risers elevate the board significantly, allowing for larger wheels and improving the clearance between the deck and the ground. This type is often favored by downhill skaters and those who enjoy aggressive riding styles, as it can enhance stability at high speeds.
- Custom Risers: Some skaters opt for custom risers tailored to their specific needs, allowing for unique adjustments in height and angle. These can be made from various materials, including rubber and plastic, and can be designed to suit specific riding styles or preferences.
Are Hard Risers Better than Soft Risers?
Height Options: Different riser heights can influence the skateboard’s stability and turning capabilities; higher risers offer more clearance for larger wheels, which can enhance stability at speed but may also affect the board’s center of gravity and turning responsiveness.
Do Angled Risers Provide Any Advantages?
Angled risers can offer several important advantages to skateboarders, particularly in terms of performance and comfort. These risers, which tilt your trucks at an angle, can enhance your riding experience in various ways:
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Improved Turning:
Angled risers increase the turning radius of your skateboard. This helps skaters perform sharper and more fluid turns, which is especially beneficial for technical tricks and navigating tight spaces. -
Reduced Wheel Bite:
By lifting the trucks slightly and angling them, these risers can prevent the wheels from hitting the board during turns. This is particularly important for skaters using wider wheels or when riding loose trucks. -
Customized Ride Height:
Angled risers allow for customizing the height of your setup. This can lead to a more balanced stance, increasing overall control and stability while riding. -
Enhanced Shock Absorption:
The angled design might offer additional shock absorption compared to standard flat risers. This can lead to a smoother ride when landing tricks or rolling over rough surfaces.
Incorporating angled risers can significantly enhance both the comfort and technical performance of your skateboard, making them an appealing option for many riders.
How to Choose the Right Risers for Your Skateboard?
Material: Risers are usually made from plastic, rubber, or urethane. Plastic risers are lightweight and cost-effective but may be less durable. Rubber and urethane options provide better shock absorption and durability, making them suitable for more aggressive riding styles.
Compatibility: Before purchasing risers, check their compatibility with your skateboard’s trucks and deck. The bolt pattern and spacing should match to ensure a secure attachment. Mismatched risers may lead to instability or damage to your equipment.
Purpose: Consider how you plan to use your skateboard: street, park, or cruising. If you’re doing tricks, lower risers might be preferable for stability, while taller risers can be beneficial for cruising or downhill riding to accommodate larger wheels. Your intended style of skating should guide your selection.
Cost: While it’s tempting to choose the cheapest option, investing in higher-quality risers can improve your ride’s performance. Prices can vary significantly based on brand and material, so weigh your options against your budget without compromising essential features for your skating experience.
What Factors Should You Consider in Terms of Height and Material?
Material: Common materials for skateboard risers include plastic, rubber, and metal. Plastic risers are lightweight and cost-effective, making them a popular choice, while rubber risers can help absorb shocks and vibrations for a smoother ride. Metal risers, although heavier, tend to be more durable and can withstand greater impacts but may not provide the same level of cushioning.
Compatibility: It’s essential to ensure that the risers you choose are compatible with your skateboard’s trucks and deck. Mismatched sizes can lead to installation issues or even compromise the integrity of your skateboard setup. Always check the dimensions and specifications before making a purchase.
Riding Style: Depending on your riding style, the required riser height and material can change. For instance, street skaters might prefer lower risers for better stability during tricks, while downhill skaters may opt for taller risers to accommodate larger wheels and enhance speed. Understanding your specific needs will help you select the most suitable risers.
What Are the Top Recommended Brands for Skateboard Risers?
The top recommended brands for skateboard risers include:
- Bones: Known for their high-quality skateboard components, Bones risers are designed to reduce wheel bite and improve stability. They are made from durable materials that withstand the wear and tear of skating, ensuring longevity and consistent performance.
- Independent: Independent is a trusted name in the skateboarding community, and their risers are no exception. They offer a range of sizes and materials, allowing skaters to choose the perfect fit for their boards while providing excellent cushioning and shock absorption.
- Tensor: Tensor risers are known for their lightweight design, making them ideal for skaters who prefer a minimal setup. They provide ample height to prevent wheel bite and are made from durable plastic that can handle various terrains.
- Ricta: Ricta risers are often praised for their versatility and performance. They come in a variety of thicknesses, allowing riders to customize their setup based on their skating style and preferences, while also minimizing vibrations for a smoother ride.
- Element: Element risers are crafted with an eco-friendly approach, using sustainable materials without sacrificing performance. They offer a good balance of height and cushioning, making them suitable for street and park skating alike.
How Can You Properly Install Skateboard Risers?
To properly install skateboard risers, you need to follow a few essential steps and consider the types of risers available.
- Choosing the Right Risers: Selecting the best risers for your skateboard is crucial as they come in different heights and materials, such as plastic or rubber. Higher risers provide more clearance for larger wheels, while softer materials can absorb shocks better.
- Tools Required: To install the risers, you will need a few basic tools, including a skateboard tool or a socket wrench, and possibly a screwdriver. These tools will help you remove the trucks and securely attach the risers.
- Removing the Trucks: Begin by removing the trucks from your skateboard deck. Use the skateboard tool to unscrew the nuts holding the trucks in place, which will allow you to place the risers between the deck and the trucks.
- Placing the Risers: Carefully align the risers on the top of the skateboard deck where the trucks usually sit. Ensure that the holes in the risers match the holes in the skateboard deck to facilitate a proper fit.
- Reattaching the Trucks: Once the risers are in position, place the trucks back on top of the risers. Make sure to align the truck holes with those in the risers and the board, then screw them back in tightly to ensure stability.
- Checking the Setup: After everything is reassembled, double-check that all screws are tight and the risers are secure. Give the board a gentle shake to ensure nothing is loose before taking it for a ride.
What Tools Do You Need for Installation?
Installing risers on your skateboard can enhance your ride, but having the right tools is crucial for a smooth installation process. Here’s what you’ll need:
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Skate Tool or Socket Wrench: This is essential for loosening and tightening the hardware of your skateboard. Most skate tools come with multiple sizes of sockets to accommodate different bolt sizes.
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Phillips Head Screwdriver: If your skateboard hardware uses screws instead of bolts, a Phillips head screwdriver will be necessary to remove the old hardware and install the new risers.
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Pliers: Pliers can help if a nut is stuck or if you need extra grip when tightening or loosening screws and bolts.
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Ruler or Caliper: Measuring the height of risers is important, especially if you’re trying to achieve a specific level of clearance. A ruler or caliper will help ensure that your setup meets your preferences.
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Safety Gear: While not a tool, having safety gear (like a helmet and pads) is advised while working on your skateboard, ensuring safety during testing post-installation.
With these tools on hand, the installation of your skateboard risers will be efficient and straightforward.
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