Hit the pavement and you’ll hear passionate debates buzzing at every corner of the skatepark. “To wax or not to wax,” that’s the question shredders are grinding down to the axle. It’s a rite of passage to know your gear, and when you’re picking out your durable skate shoes, don’t you want to know how to best care for your trucks too?
Should you wax your trucks for a smoother ride? We’ll dive deep into proper board maintenance to keep your setup in primo condition.
If you are a visual learner, check out this video titled ‘How to Make your Skateboard Last Forever (skateboard maintenance)’
Key takeaways
- Clean and dry your trucks thoroughly before applying wax.
- Use a hard wax designed for metal for better results.
- Test your trucks after waxing to adjust your technique as needed.
How to wax your skateboard trucks
Waxing your trucks isn’t standard practice, but some skaters swear by it for that extra slickness on grinds. Before we get rolling, remember this isn’t about going overboard; you’re aiming for just enough to reduce friction without compromising control. Here’s a breakdown on how to treat your trucks to a smooth wax job.
Step 1: Clean your trucks
Wipe down your trucks using a rag and soapy water, making sure you remove any dirt and grime. Dry them thoroughly because you don’t want water to mix with your wax. Ensure the whole truck is spotless because wax adheres best to a clean surface.
Step 2: Choose the right wax
Not all waxes are created equal. For trucks, you need a harder wax than the soft stuff you’d rub on your board for slides. Look for a clear, solid wax designed for metal – this will give you the best results.
Step 3: Heat the wax slightly
This step is all about making the wax easier to apply. You can either leave it out in the sun for a bit or warm it with a hair dryer. Just make sure it’s soft but not melting.
You want it pliable, not drippy.
Step 4: Apply the wax to the truck
Gently rub the wax against your truck’s hanger, where it contacts the grinds the most. Don’t go overboard; a light, even coat is what you’re after. Wax on both the top and underside of the hanger for an all-around ease of movement.
Step 5: Buff the wax into the truck
Using a clean, dry cloth, buff the wax into the metal until it’s no longer visible. This helps to ensure an even layer and helps the wax to penetrate the surface slightly, which will last you longer during your shreds.
Step 6: Test your trucks
Hit the park and test out your handiwork. Start with a few easy grinds to get a feel for the difference. Adjust your technique if necessary – remember that the wax will make things slicker, so you’ll want to stay centered and balanced.
More waxing tips
Beyond the basic steps of waxing your trucks, a few more tricks can elevate your grind. It’s all about precision and balance – treating your trucks with the same attention you give to nailing a new trick.
- Ensure the wax isn’t too soft; if it is, it can gunk up your trucks and affect performance.
- Regularly check your trucks for wax buildup and scrape off excess.
- Consider the temperature; cold weather can harden wax, while hot days might make it too gooey.
- Always carry a cloth to buff your trucks after application for that seamless finish.
- Experiment with different types of wax to find the perfect blend for your style of skating.
Leading into the dos and don’ts, it’s key to understand the subtle differences that can impact your skating. Here’s a handy guide to help you maximize the benefits of waxing your trucks while avoiding common pitfalls.
| Do | Don’t |
|---|---|
| Use a hard wax designed for metal | Apply too much wax, it’s not about slathering |
| Keep your trucks clean for better adhesion | Wax your trucks unnecessarily, only do it if you feel grinding resistance |
| Warm the wax for better application | Use candles or other soft waxes which can get sticky |
| Test out your waxed trucks to adjust your technique | Neglect to scrap off excess wax, as it can collect dirt |
| Buff the wax properly into the metal for longevity | Forget to consider the weather, it affects the wax’s consistency |
The easy glide without the grind.
Advantages and disadvantages of waxing trucks
Waxing skate trucks isn’t universally adopted, but like tweaking your setup, it’s about personal optimization. Let’s dive into the pros and cons, and you’ll see why it might be a slick move, or why you might want to stick to dry grinds.
Advantages
- Decreases friction, resulting in smoother grinds
- Protects the metal from corrosion and wear
- Can improve the lifespan of your trucks
- Offers a custom experience; more wax for slickness, less for control
Disadvantages
- Excess wax can cause slippage and loss of control
- Requires more maintenance to remove buildup
- Not all spots permit wax, it can leave residue
- Wax buildup needs to be regularly cleaned for optimal performance
“Waxing your trucks isn’t about going overboard; you’re aiming for just enough to reduce friction without compromising control. It’s a subtle art – a little bit of wax can mean the difference between a sticky situation and a slide that’s smooth as butter.”
In my opinion, waxing trucks could be a game-changer for skaters who love technical grinds and are looking to smooth out their slides. It’s not a move every shredder has to pull, but it’s one worth considering if you’re feeling resistance on those rails. With a bit of trial and error, you might find it takes your trick execution to a new level of slick.
That said, I’m no pro when it comes to waxing – it’s a personal choice, like your deck design or your favorite pair of skate shoes. Some skaters never touch the stuff, others won’t hit a ledge without it. If you decide to try it out, go light and see how it feels.
Your skating style will thank you for the fine-tuning, or you’ll learn something new about how you prefer your setup.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
How usually should you wax your trucks?
If you choose to wax your trucks, the frequency will depend on how usually you skate and the conditions you skate in. If you notice grinds starting to feel choppy or your slides stalling, it’s likely time for a touch-up.
Does waxing your trucks affect bearing performance?
Waxing your trucks shouldn’t directly impact your bearings. Keep the wax focused on the hanger where grinds occur. Be mindful not to let wax get into the bearings when applying or buffing it out.
Can you use household candles to wax trucks?
While a standard candle might be tempting to use, they’re typically too soft for trucks. A harder wax specifically meant for metal will give you better results and won’t melt too quickly or attract dirt.
Final thoughts
As we wrap up, remember that the choice to wax your trucks is exactly that—a choice. It’s a nifty trick for those looking to smooth out their grinds, but it’s far from necessary for everyone. Like much of skateboarding, it’s about personal preference and the pursuit of that perfect ride.
Still, if you’re keen on mastering those ledges and rails, a little wax could very well be your secret ingredient.
Have you tried waxing your trucks, or are you thinking about giving it a whirl? Did I cover everything you wanted to know? Let me know in the comments section below I read and reply to every comment. If you found this article helpful, share it with a friend, and check out my full blog for more tips and tricks on skateboard maintenance. Thanks for reading and keep shredding!
