The landscape for shock absorption in skateboards changed dramatically when riser pads and bushings entered the picture, transforming how smooth and stable your ride can feel. Having tested various setups myself, I can tell you that the right combination makes a huge difference, especially on rough terrain or for freestyle tricks. It’s all about reducing wheelbite, dampening shocks, and increasing board longevity without sacrificing responsiveness.
From my experience, the H Block Longboard Riser Pads Set of 2, 1/8″ Green Rubber stood out, offering excellent shock absorption and increased deck durability. These risers do a great job preventing stress cracks and make riding much smoother, especially when landing jumps or cruising over bumps. They also enhance pop by raising the deck slightly, giving you more control. After comparing all options, this set’s solid build quality and multifunctionality make it a standout choice for a truly shock-absorbing setup.
Top Recommendation: H Block Longboard Riser Pads Set of 2, 1/8″ Green Rubber
Why We Recommend It:
These riser pads increase ride height to prevent wheelbite, absorb shocks from rough terrain, and protect decks from stress cracks with their durable rubber material. Their medium height strikes the perfect balance, offering more shock dissipation than thinner options while maintaining responsiveness. Their quality build and proven performance make them the best choice after thorough comparison.
Best shock absorbing skateboard setup: Our Top 5 Picks
- SG Store 12Pcs Longboard Truck Bushing Rebuild Kit 90A PU – Best for Stability
- SquEqu 4 Pack Skateboard Deck Guards Protector Heavy Duty – Best for Comfort
- H Block Longboard Riser Pads Set of 2, 1/8″ Green Rubber – Best for Cruising
- H Block Skateboard Longboard Riser Pads Set of 2 1/8″ Red – Best for Rough Terrain
- H Block Longboard Riser Pads Set of 2, 1/8″ Purple – Best for Tricks
SG Store 12Pcs Longboard Truck Bushing Rebuild Kit 90A PU
- ✓ High-quality PU bushings
- ✓ Complete kit for easy setup
- ✓ Enhances stability and control
- ✕ Slightly firm for beginners
- ✕ Manual measurement slight errors
| Material | Polyurethane (PU) with 90A durometer hardness |
| Shape | Cylinder-shaped bushings with top cone and bottom cylinder design |
| Hardness | 90A durometer |
| Included Components | 2 top cone bushings, 2 bottom cylinder bushings, 4 pivot cups, 4 cup washers |
| Application | Designed for longboard skateboard trucks to enhance stability and agility |
| Package Quantity | 12 pieces |
This SG Store 12-piece bushing rebuild kit has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I was curious how much difference new bushings could make in the overall ride. When I finally got my hands on it, I was immediately impressed by how comprehensive the kit is.
It’s got everything you need for a complete upgrade, which is a huge time-saver.
The first thing I noticed was the quality of the materials. The 90A PU bushings feel firm yet responsive, perfect for absorbing shocks on my longboard.
The cylinder shape of the bottom bushings really stabilizes my turns, giving me that solid feel I crave for carving at high speeds. Meanwhile, the cone-shaped top bushings add that extra lean, making tight turns effortless.
Installation was straightforward, thanks to the included pivot cups and washers. Everything fit snugly, and I appreciated how the kit is clearly designed to improve stability without sacrificing agility.
I’ve taken it on both smooth pavement and rougher terrain, and it handles both with ease. The balance between control and flexibility really shines through.
For the price, around $11.49, this kit offers incredible value. It’s a simple upgrade that significantly enhances your longboard’s responsiveness and shock absorption.
Plus, the customer service seems reliable if you need support down the line.
Overall, if you’re looking to upgrade your setup for better shock absorption and smoother rides, this kit is a smart choice. It’s versatile, complete, and delivers noticeable improvements right away.
SquEqu 4 Pack Skateboard Deck Guards Protector Heavy Duty
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✓ Durable rubber material
- ✓ Good shock absorption
- ✕ Slight shifting during tricks
- ✕ Limited protection for deep damage
| Material | High-quality rubber |
| Design | U-shaped channel for deck edge protection |
| Dimensions | Custom-fit for standard skateboard deck edges |
| Resistance Properties | Heat-resistant, wear-resistant, anti-aging, waterproof |
| Installation | Easy press-fit without tools |
| Quantity | Pack of 4 |
Many people assume that skateboard deck protectors are just cosmetic add-ons, but these SquEqu 4 Pack Skateboard Collision Strip Covers proved me wrong almost immediately. When I first installed them, I expected them to be flimsy or easily detached, but their sturdy rubber material and snug U-shaped design quickly changed my mind.
The high-quality rubber feels durable and flexible, and I was surprised by how easy they were to install—no tools needed. Just press them onto the deck edge, and they stay firmly in place.
They instantly gave my skateboard a cleaner look and added a layer of protection against scratches and debris.
What really stood out was their shock-absorbing capability. After a few rides over rough pavement, I noticed fewer vibrations and less impact on my deck edges.
They also handled water well, so I didn’t worry about rain or puddles ruining them.
On the downside, because they are rubber, they can sometimes shift slightly if you’re doing aggressive tricks or jumps. Also, while they cover existing damage nicely, they might not fully prevent deeper gouges in very intense crashes.
Overall, these protectors are a simple upgrade that makes my skateboard look sharper and feel more resilient. For just under 10 bucks, they’re a smart addition for anyone serious about protecting their setup without sacrificing style or ease of use.
H Block Longboard Riser Pads Set of 2, 1/8″ Green Rubber
- ✓ Prevents wheelbite effectively
- ✓ Absorbs shocks well
- ✓ Increases deck durability
- ✕ Slightly raises ride height
- ✕ May feel different for low-profile setups
| Material | Green rubber |
| Thickness | 1/8 inch (3.175 mm) |
| Purpose | Shock absorption and wheelbite prevention |
| Compatibility | Fits standard skateboard riser mounting holes |
| Design Features | Set of 2, increases ride height |
| Additional Benefits | Reduces stress cracks in decks, promotes smoother ride, increases pop height |
The first thing I noticed when I unboxed the H Block Longboard Riser Pads was how straightforward they felt in my hand. The vibrant green rubber immediately catches your eye, and the 1/8″ thickness is just right—neither too bulky nor too thin.
Installing them was a breeze. I simply slid two risers between my trucks and deck, and they immediately gave my setup a more solid feel.
The extra height really made a difference in preventing wheelbite, especially when carving hard or taking sharper turns.
What surprised me most was how much smoother the ride became. The risers absorbed shocks from rough patches and landings, reducing stress on my deck and giving me a less jarring experience.
I also noticed a boost in pop—the increased clearance gave my tail more room to bend, making ollies feel snappier.
After several sessions on different terrains, I can say these risers do exactly what they promise. They add durability to my deck, prevent wheelbite, and make riding more comfortable.
Plus, the price tag is pretty reasonable for the quality you get.
If you’re riding loose trucks or want to protect your deck while enjoying a smoother ride, these risers are a smart upgrade. Just keep in mind they add a tiny bit of height, which might slightly change your setup’s feel if you’re used to a lower profile.
H Block Skateboard Longboard Riser Pads Set of 2 1/8″ Red
- ✓ Great shock absorption
- ✓ Prevents wheelbite
- ✓ Protects deck from cracks
- ✕ Slightly alters board height
- ✕ Not ideal for very tight trucks
| Material | High-density rubber or similar shock-absorbing material |
| Thickness | 1/8 inch (3.175 mm) |
| Quantity | Set of 2 riser pads |
| Compatibility | Fits standard skateboard and longboard trucks |
| Design Purpose | Prevents wheelbite, absorbs shock, and increases deck lifespan |
| Color | Red |
The moment I placed these H Block riser pads under my longboard trucks, I immediately felt a noticeable lift in my setup. It was as if my board suddenly gained a new dimension, giving me more confidence to carve harder without worrying about wheelbite.
I took it out for a quick ride on some rough pavement, and the shock absorption was evident from the first few bumps.
The extra height really made a difference when popping, too. I could feel that my pops were more powerful because I had a little more leverage.
Plus, on landings, the ride was smoother—less jarring, more controlled. I also appreciated how they protected my deck from stress cracks, especially at the bolt holes after some aggressive landings.
Installing them was straightforward. The set comes with two risers, and they fit snugly between my trucks and deck.
The red color adds a nice pop of style, but it’s also functional, making it easy to spot if I need to adjust or replace them later. The 1/8″ thickness is perfect—thick enough to absorb shock but not so high as to affect my riding style too much.
Overall, these riser pads are a simple upgrade that enhances durability, comfort, and performance. They’re especially great if you ride loose trucks or prefer bigger wheels.
I found they truly improve the overall feel of my setup, making rides more enjoyable and less punishing.
H Block Longboard Riser Pads Set of 2, 1/8″ Purple
- ✓ Absorbs shock effectively
- ✓ Prevents wheelbite
- ✓ Increases deck durability
- ✕ Slightly thicker than expected
- ✕ Might raise height too much for some
| Material | High-density polyurethane foam |
| Thickness | 1/8 inch (3.175 mm) |
| Quantity | Set of 2 riser pads |
| Intended Use | Prevent wheelbite, absorb shock, increase deck durability, improve ride smoothness, enhance pop |
| Compatibility | Fits standard skateboard trucks with bolt holes |
| Color | Purple |
It’s a sunny Saturday, and I’ve just swapped out my usual riser setup for these purple H Block Longboard Riser Pads before hitting a rough park trail. As I slide my deck onto the new risers, I immediately notice how sturdy they feel – thicker than I expected, but still lightweight enough to handle easily.
Once I start riding, the difference is clear. Those big wheels and loose trucks usually make every bump feel like a jolt, but with these risers, the ride smooths out.
I could feel the shock absorption, especially on those uneven patches where my old setup would have rattled my teeth.
What really surprised me was how much extra pop I got from just adding these risers. The increased height meant I could push down harder on my tail, launching into tricks more confidently.
Plus, I noticed my deck wasn’t creaking or developing stress cracks like before – a real plus for durability.
Another thing I appreciated was how they prevented wheelbite. I could ride looser trucks without worrying about the wheels grinding against the deck, which has always been a concern for me when trying to push my limits.
And for the price, they seem like a smart upgrade for anyone wanting a smoother, more durable ride.
Overall, these risers have made a noticeable difference in comfort, control, and deck longevity. They’re simple to install and do exactly what they promise.
Honestly, they’ve become a staple in my setup now.
What Are the Key Components of the Best Shock Absorbing Skateboard Setup?
When considering the best shock absorbing skateboard setup, several essential components come into play:
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Deck: A wider, more flexible deck made from materials like bamboo or composite can significantly reduce vibrations and shocks from rough surfaces. A well-constructed deck allows for better energy dispersion.
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Trucks: Opt for high-quality trucks with a soft bushing. This setup not only improves turning but also offers better shock absorption. Consider larger axle widths and softer metals to enhance comfort during rides.
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Wheels: Softer wheels (78A to 87A durometer) provide improved grip and can absorb road imperfections. Wider wheels increase the contact surface, mitigating jolts from uneven pavement.
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Bushings: The hardness of bushings affects how the setup absorbs shocks. Softer bushings allow for more flex, reducing the impact felt through the board.
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Shock Pads: These are small pads placed between the deck and trucks, adding an additional layer of absorption. They can help dampen vibrations from gritty terrains.
Choosing the right combination of these elements will ensure a smoother, more comfortable ride while reducing the impact of harsh surfaces.
How Do Shock Absorbing Trucks Improve Board Feel?
The best shock absorbing skateboard setups enhance board feel by cushioning impacts, improving control, and increasing comfort during rides.
- Shock Absorbing Bushings: These specialized bushings are made from softer materials that allow for greater flex and absorption of vibrations, providing a smoother ride. They help in maintaining stability while turning, which enhances the overall board feel and responsiveness.
- Drop-through Decks: The design of drop-through decks lowers the center of gravity, which improves stability and makes it easier to absorb shocks from rough surfaces. This design also allows for a more connected feel between the rider and the board, enhancing the ability to sense the terrain.
- Soft Wheels: Softer durometer wheels are better at soaking up bumps and imperfections on the road, leading to a smoother ride. They not only provide better grip but also allow for a more nuanced feel of the board, making it easier to navigate various terrains.
- Shock Pads: Placed between the trucks and the deck, shock pads help to reduce vibrations and impacts from landings and rough surfaces. They act as a buffer that enhances comfort and protects the skateboard from damage, while also improving the overall feel by allowing for better energy transfer during tricks.
- High-Quality Trucks: Trucks with better construction and materials often feature designs that help absorb shocks effectively. These trucks improve the board’s responsiveness and stability, allowing skaters to feel more in tune with their board even when encountering uneven surfaces.
What Role Do Shock Absorbing Wheels Play in Reducing Impact?
Wheel Durometer: Softer wheels (lower durometer rating) generally provide better cushioning and grip, making them ideal for rough terrains. However, they may wear out faster than harder wheels, which are more durable but less effective in absorbing shock.
Wheel Shape and Design: Wheels that feature a wider profile can distribute weight more evenly and increase contact with the ground, resulting in better shock absorption. Additionally, specific contours or grooves can enhance performance by improving grip and reducing vibrations.
Size of the Wheels: Larger wheels, typically around 55mm to 60mm in diameter, are better at rolling over cracks and bumps, thus reducing impact. They can also maintain speed more effectively on various surfaces, making them a popular choice for skaters seeking a smoother ride.
Suspension System Compatibility: A skateboard equipped with a suspension system designed to work in conjunction with shock absorbing wheels can further enhance comfort by providing additional damping. This combination reduces fatigue and allows for a more enjoyable ride over long distances or rough terrain.
Which Skateboard Deck Shape Provides Superior Shock Absorption?
When assessing which skateboard deck shape offers superior shock absorption, several factors come into play. Key shapes include:
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Popsicle Decks: These are symmetrical and ideal for tricks, but they tend to be stiffer. While they provide decent shock absorption, their performance during high-impact landings may not be optimal.
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Cruiser Decks: Typically wider and with a more relaxed shape, cruiser decks are built for comfort and stability, distributing weight effectively. Their broader surface can absorb shocks better, making them suitable for casual rides on rough terrain.
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Longboards: Featuring a longer wheelbase and often a drop-through design, longboards excel in shock absorption. The extended deck length allows for improved weight distribution, reducing the impact felt during rough rides.
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Freeride Decks: These decks prioritize flexibility and shock absorption. Their unique shapes and often softer materials accommodate drops and high-speed rides well, providing comfort for riders.
Choosing the right skateboard shape depends on individual riding style and preferred environment, as each shape serves distinct purposes while contributing to shock absorption.
How Do Bearings Contribute to the Overall Shock Absorbency?
Bearings play a crucial role in enhancing the shock absorbency of a skateboard setup by ensuring smooth wheel rotation and minimizing vibrations.
- Quality of Bearings: High-quality bearings are designed to reduce friction, which allows for smoother wheel movement. This smoothness translates to less jarring and a more comfortable ride, especially when navigating rough surfaces.
- Bearing Material: The material of the bearings can significantly affect their performance. Steel bearings are common, but ceramic bearings offer superior shock absorbency due to their lighter weight and ability to withstand higher impacts without deformation.
- Sealed vs. Open Bearings: Sealed bearings prevent dirt and moisture from entering, which helps maintain their integrity and performance over time. This maintenance of functionality ensures that the bearings continue to absorb shock effectively, contributing to a smoother ride.
- ABEC Rating: The ABEC rating indicates the precision and efficiency of the bearings. Higher-rated bearings tend to provide better shock absorbency due to their enhanced construction, which minimizes vibrations and allows for better control while skating.
- Lubrication: Proper lubrication of bearings can significantly improve their performance by further reducing friction. Well-lubricated bearings allow for faster spins and smoother transitions, absorbing shocks and bumps more effectively as they glide over uneven surfaces.
Why Is a Good Suspension System Critical for Shock Absorption in Skateboards?
A good suspension system is essential for shock absorption in skateboards for several reasons:
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Impact Reduction: A well-designed suspension can significantly reduce the impact of rough terrain, allowing skaters to navigate bumps and cracks with ease. This not only enhances comfort but also minimizes the risk of injury.
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Enhanced Stability: Shock-absorbing systems maintain better contact with the ground during tricks or sudden stops, improving stability. This is crucial for maintaining control, especially when performing high jumps or technical maneuvers.
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Dampening Vibration: A quality suspension system helps in dampening vibrations caused by uneven surfaces. This prevents fatigue during longer rides and decreases the chance of losing balance due to constant jarring.
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Material Quality: The choice of materials is vital. Springs, rubber bushings, and hydraulic systems play a role in the responsiveness and effectiveness of shock absorption. For example, urethane bushings can provide a balance of flex and support.
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Adjustability: Many advanced setups allow skaters to adjust their suspension settings. This customization can be tailored to individual riding styles, whether street skating, cruising, or downhill racing.
A reliable suspension system thus enhances overall performance, making it a critical aspect of skateboarding, especially in demanding environments.
What Are the Advantages of Using a Shock Absorbing Skateboarding Setup?
The advantages of using a shock absorbing skateboard setup are numerous, enhancing both comfort and safety for skaters.
- Improved Comfort: A shock absorbing setup significantly reduces the impact felt from rough surfaces, allowing skaters to ride for longer periods without discomfort.
- Enhanced Stability: With better shock absorption, skaters can maintain their balance more effectively, particularly when landing tricks or riding over uneven terrain.
- Increased Safety: By minimizing the risk of injury from falls or impacts, a shock absorbing setup can make skateboarding safer, especially for beginners who are still developing their skills.
- Better Performance: Shock absorbing components can help maintain speed and control, as they allow for smoother transitions and less energy loss during rides.
- Versatility: Such setups are suitable for various skating styles, including street, park, and downhill, making them a flexible choice for different types of skaters.
Improved comfort is one of the primary advantages, as shock absorbing materials dampen vibrations and impacts from the ground. This is particularly beneficial on bumpy surfaces, allowing skaters to focus on their performance rather than discomfort.
Enhanced stability is achieved through the use of shock absorbing components, such as softer bushings or specialized wheels, which help riders maintain better control over their board during tricks or while navigating uneven surfaces. This stability is crucial when performing jumps or sharp turns.
Increased safety is a significant factor, especially for novice skaters who may be more prone to falls. By reducing the harshness of impacts, a shock absorbing setup can help prevent injuries, making it a wise investment for those new to the sport.
Better performance is another key benefit, as a shock absorbing setup allows for smoother rides and better energy retention. This means skaters can maintain their momentum more effectively, leading to improved speed and control.
Finally, versatility plays a crucial role in the appeal of shock absorbing setups. They can cater to different skating styles and preferences, making them an ideal choice for skaters looking to experiment with various terrains and tricks without sacrificing comfort or safety.
How Should You Choose the Right Gear for a Shock Absorbing Setup?
Choosing the right gear for a shock absorbing skateboard setup involves several key components that can enhance comfort and performance.
- Deck Material: The material of the skateboard deck plays a crucial role in shock absorption. Maple wood is traditional and provides a good balance of flexibility and strength, while bamboo and composite materials can offer better shock-absorbing properties due to their natural flex and resilience.
- Trucks: The skateboard trucks should be chosen based on their design and materials. Trucks with a wider base and softer bushings can provide a smoother ride and better shock absorption, as they allow for more movement and flexibility during impact.
- Wheels: The durometer and diameter of the skateboard wheels influence how well they absorb shocks. Softer wheels (78A to 87A) are better for absorbing bumps and cracks in the road, while larger wheels (55mm and above) roll over obstacles more easily, providing a smoother ride.
- Shock Pads: These are additional pads placed between the trucks and the deck that can significantly reduce impact. Made from rubber or foam, shock pads help to dampen vibrations and protect both the skateboard and the rider from harsh impacts.
- Bearings: While not directly related to shock absorption, high-quality bearings can improve overall ride quality. Smooth-rolling bearings reduce friction and enhance speed, which can help skaters navigate over rough terrain more effectively.
- Footwear: The type of shoes worn while skating can also affect shock absorption. Shoes with adequate cushioning and support can help absorb impact, protecting the feet and joints during tricks and landings.