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Skateboarding => Shoes & Gear => Topic started by: Sloppy Krooks on June 29, 2025, 09:07:40 PM
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What are the best pieces of gear that you’ve had that you’d recommend? Hidden jems you’ve found that everyone else should know about?
There’s a lot of subjectivity in board shapes and wheel formulas, but sort from that, what little things has made the experience of skating that much better?
I finally retired some rails I bought from the FESN shop in Nakano, Tokyo. I got them because they are made a bit shorter than standard rails, so good for boards with shorter wheelbases.
https://shop.fareastskatenetwork.com/?pid=172018200
But holy fuck, best rails I’ve ever had period. The plastic they use is a harder compound, and it feels and sounds like you’re grinding, but slides perfectly. Can’t recommend them enough.
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Honestly, supercush bushings, the greens for cooler weather and purps for warmer weather. On venture lows.
Don't tear and rebound well. Been using them and venture stocks.
Toy machine wax, im sure its generic wax but wherever it is made they use some good stuff. It last for a good while too. Doesn't look greasy when it melts.
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Honestly, supercush bushings, the greens for cooler weather and purps for warmer weather. On venture lows.
Don't tear and rebound well. Been using them and venture stocks.
Toy machine wax, im sure its generic wax but wherever it is made they use some good stuff. It last for a good while too. Doesn't look greasy when it melts.
must be a Tum Yeto thing, my Pig Wheels wax has lasted super long too.
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My local still has 1x Chico big boy shape chocolate board left which is kinda crazy since I’m actually riding one right now and though it would probably be the last one I ever saw… the other crazy thing is that probably no one will buy it except me.
(Yes I’m aware Chico Stix exists)
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I really love the DSC wax I have. Has lasted forever and the diamond shape is easy to grip. Maybe not a hidden gem but I use Loophole wheels almost exclusively for parks and while they aren’t flashy, great for transition, and they have just always been incredibly solid. And it’s nice to support a smaller biz.
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My local still has 1x Chico big boy shape chocolate board left which is kinda crazy since I’m actually riding one right now and though it would probably be the last one I ever saw… the other crazy thing is that probably no one will buy it except me.
(Yes I’m aware Chico Stix exists)
Chocolate and girl have the best shapes imo. Obviously a taste thing on my part, but you can’t argue they not only have something for everyone, but they have all their sizes and dim info readily available so you can get hold of what you like.
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Mini Logo hardware is great, the bearings are as good as Reds and if you're a shield popper are some of the best to use because the broader tolerances seem to let them eat the dust better.
Quantum Bearings lube is great and lasts forever. Works in any bearings we have ever used it in.
The Ace AF1 tool is the best one I've come across.
Vans pants are actually made in the same factory as many more expensive brands and the same exact cuts. Unlike other footwear apparel they are minimally branded with easily removable tags.
Doh Dohs are actually great bushings and far better than Bones.
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Doh Dohs are actually great bushings and far better than Bones.
I hate the way Doh Dohs feel when I touch them, but I can’t argue against them as bushings. I’ve blown out tons of bones and had DDs that survived multiple trucks
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Doh Dohs are actually great bushings and far better than Bones.
I hate the way Doh Dohs feel when I touch them, but I can’t argue against them as bushings. I’ve blown out tons of bones and had DDs that survived multiple trucks
Switched from Thunder to Indy about a year ago because I kept crushing both the Bones bushings and Thunder replacement kit ones and was totally over it. The Independents are bound to be axled soon, so I've preemptively set up this old pair of team hollows with Independent washers because it looked like the original Thunder ones don't really fit Doh Dohs.
Looks ok even though I'm yet to actually skate it. Do you guys reckon it'll work? Do you have any other sort of weird setups you recommend to get Doh Dohs to work well on Thunders?
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Unless you are cash-limited I would suggest getting another pair of the trucks that are working rather than trying to preserve a set of bushings in trucks they won't work in and are different than what you've been using.
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Unless you are cash-limited I would suggest getting another pair of the trucks that are working rather than trying to preserve a set of bushings in trucks they won't work in and are different than what you've been using.
I'm trying to get Thunders to work without having to go through the hassle of changing bushings every couple of months. I've also tried both Thunder and Bones hards but could never get used to them, hence why I've thought about giving the Doh Dohs a go
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Diamond allen hardware is perfect for setting up Venture trucks. You still need a skate tool or larger wrench for the kingpin nut, but you won't scratch up your skate tool or trucks while putting them on a deck.
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Honestly, supercush bushings, the greens for cooler weather and purps for warmer weather. On venture lows.
Don't tear and rebound well. Been using them and venture stocks.
Toy machine wax, im sure its generic wax but wherever it is made they use some good stuff. It last for a good while too. Doesn't look greasy when it melts.
+1 on the toy wax. Shit last forever and smells nice too.
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Toy machine wax, im sure its generic wax but wherever it is made they use some good stuff. It last for a good while too. Doesn't look greasy when it melts.
That's what separates the good stuff from the cheap stuff.
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Olympia Bearings.
Got a free set off of SPoT and they sent me a replacement pair because I may have gotten faulty ones.
I’ve bought their medium tier and their top tier bearings.
Not as easy to find but a solid pick up.
Shake Junt triple OG/ABEC 7s are pretty good too.
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Unless you are cash-limited I would suggest getting another pair of the trucks that are working rather than trying to preserve a set of bushings in trucks they won't work in and are different than what you've been using.
I'm trying to get Thunders to work without having to go through the hassle of changing bushings every couple of months. I've also tried both Thunder and Bones hards but could never get used to them, hence why I've thought about giving the Doh Dohs a go
I use Indy conical replacement bushings on my thunders. I just sand the top down on some old grip till it’s the same size, only takes a minute and the last set lasted me a year with no issues.
I’m not sure if there’s a size difference between thunders and doh dohs but it seems like as long as the sizing is close replacements work great. Only mentioning it cause I tried the Indys once before shaving them and with them being too tall it really restricted the turn. Post shaving they’re perfect.
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I'll say it one more time: Flip HKD 5 bearings are excellent.
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amazon sells the lowest profile inverted kingpin currently available to diyrs and it's pretty cheap
waiting patiently for the new slappy one tho cause it looks really good
link?
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Mini Logo hardware is great, the bearings are as good as Reds and if you're a shield popper are some of the best to use because the broader tolerances seem to let them eat the dust better.
Every single thing Mini Logo sells is great, or at least great for the price.
Hardware: Great.
Bearings: Best cheap bearings ever!
Grip: Kind of a pain to cut but works great if you don't want maximum grippiness.
Wheels: Cheap and fine. Not as good as Spitfire etc... but less than 1/2 the price.
Bushings: Great.
Trucks: Great if you like low trucks. I'm not kidding.
Decks: I guess not great but they're cheap and are totally fine, especially as a first deck or on a budget.
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Mini Logo hardware is great, the bearings are as good as Reds and if you're a shield popper are some of the best to use because the broader tolerances seem to let them eat the dust better.
Every single thing Mini Logo sells is great, or at least great for the price.
Hardware: Great.
Bearings: Best cheap bearings ever!
Wheels: Cheap and fine. Not as good as Spitfire etc... but less than 1/2 the price.
Bushings: Great.
Trucks: Great if you like low trucks. I'm not kidding.
The trucks get clowned on but they're really surfy and pinch great, better than any truck from a pre-built complete and I'd be happy to try them again on a slappy setup.
Same goes for the wheels especially their 90 / 95a formula for younger riders who need a softer duro to push over a crusty park.
Same for bearings, I'm convinced that anything that isn't Swiss or Ceramic are going to perform the same, you're paying for packaging.
Other stuff:
- Shoe laces in bulk on Aliexpress / Amazon - great if you're a habitual lace ripper like me
- E6000 - cheaper than Shoe Goo and easier to apply, get a new coat on there every 3 sessions or so
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Mini Logo hardware is great, the bearings are as good as Reds and if you're a shield popper are some of the best to use because the broader tolerances seem to let them eat the dust better.
Every single thing Mini Logo sells is great, or at least great for the price.
Hardware: Great.
Bearings: Best cheap bearings ever!
Wheels: Cheap and fine. Not as good as Spitfire etc... but less than 1/2 the price.
Bushings: Great.
Trucks: Great if you like low trucks. I'm not kidding.
The trucks get clowned on but they're really surfy and pinch great, better than any truck from a pre-built complete and I'd be happy to try them again on a slappy setup.
Same goes for the wheels especially their 90 / 95a formula for younger riders who need a softer duro to push over a crusty park.
Same for bearings, I'm convinced that anything that isn't Swiss or Ceramic are going to perform the same, you're paying for packaging.
Other stuff:
- Shoe laces in bulk on Aliexpress / Amazon - great if you're a habitual lace ripper like me
- E6000 - cheaper than Shoe Goo and easier to apply, get a new coat on there every 3 sessions or so
idk about e6000 but for shoe maintenance i think theres nothing finer than a glue gun stick and a lighter. get both at the local dollar store
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Unless you are cash-limited I would suggest getting another pair of the trucks that are working rather than trying to preserve a set of bushings in trucks they won't work in and are different than what you've been using.
I'm trying to get Thunders to work without having to go through the hassle of changing bushings every couple of months. I've also tried both Thunder and Bones hards but could never get used to them, hence why I've thought about giving the Doh Dohs a go
I use Indy conical replacement bushings on my thunders. I just sand the top down on some old grip till it’s the same size, only takes a minute and the last set lasted me a year with no issues.
I’m not sure if there’s a size difference between thunders and doh dohs but it seems like as long as the sizing is close replacements work great. Only mentioning it cause I tried the Indys once before shaving them and with them being too tall it really restricted the turn. Post shaving they’re perfect.
Thanks!
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I tried e6000 and it worked fine for a few minutes because I put it on kind of lumpy but then it smoothed out from the grip tape and it was super slippery like the grip tape couldn't grab onto it. I prefer shoe glue to hot glue because they are a bit softer and grab better in my opinion. I might have gotten used it to but I'm not sure.
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Mini Logo bushings. They take a while to break in but then they get perfect, last forever, and don't change at all when it gets super cold.
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I love the independent axle rethreader cause it has a pilot hole to keep everything straight, and the independent bearing saver T-tool is badass too cause I'm the socket doesn't touch your bearings/fuck up your shields and stuff
I think most everybody knows the aftermarket Indy bushings don't need break-in, and are better than the stock ones
I've heard that the aftermarket Indy 6-hole baseplates has a slightly longer kingpin, if you wanna eek that much more turny-ness out of your stage 11s without sanding bushings and messing with washers. Can't confirm until I get my hands on some though.
I keep the ace rethreader around too to install bearings, I found some washers at the hardware store that are *just* a bit smaller than a 608 bearing, and I put one on either side and tighten down the ace rethreader to press the bearings in without putting any load on the inner race at all. Just a couple washers added to me lil tool kit
Don't pay for skate brand wax, just get boxes of Gulf wax from the grocery store.. I feel most everyone knows this one too
i see Jordan 1s and blazer mids at Burlington all the time for like 40 bucks, just put some different insoles in em and they're p much the same as SB dunks or blazers
If you set up your board with the super small-head bolts like Shorty's or modus initially, if you ever have to re-setup the same deck, use the wider head bolts like ace, Indy, and most generic bolts and they'll fit perfect and won't sink down too much. If you need to re-mount a deck a third time, re-grip it
If you wanna speed run OCD about truck tightness, if you look closely at the nut and spin it around, look for where the thread starts, and mark the outside with a sharpie. Then just tighten the nuts down the same amount till the sharpie mark is in the same spot. Way better than just running them how they come from the factory. Esp. If you skate twin shapes
I'm crazy
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I haven’t bought a new tool for a while but I love the Pig Tool and Sk8ology carabiner
One of my other mates swears by Ace bushings and wax - can confirm the wax is nice and oily
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I love the independent axle rethreader cause it has a pilot hole to keep everything straight, and the independent bearing saver T-tool is badass too cause I'm the socket doesn't touch your bearings/fuck up your shields and stuff
The Indy T-tool also works great with Ventures as it's slim and long enough. With many tools it's pretty much impossible to tighten the tail/nose side baseplate nuts without removing the hanger.
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Skf bearings with 97 duro spitfires is the best feeling ride ever. About 6 of my homies have tried my set up and switched over since
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Zealous bearings to set and forget soft wheels/cruiser board.
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Found and bought these for $50 at a Nordstrom Rack back in 2015. Super sick colorway and I wore them a lot before retiring them to a "collection" box of a few notable pairs I've kept since I started skateboarding
(Not my photo)
(https://modernnotoriety.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/nike-sb-dunk-low-bttys-university-gold-black-1.jpg)
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Not really unknown at all, but I will only setup boards with Girl Longneck hardware. If you want to keep your trucks for a long time, they help a ton to not blowout the baseplate holes over time.
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Zealous bearings to set and forget soft wheels/cruiser board.
+1
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I love the independent axle rethreader cause it has a pilot hole to keep everything straight, and the independent bearing saver T-tool is badass too cause I'm the socket doesn't touch your bearings/fuck up your shields and stuff
The Indy T-tool also works great with Ventures as it's slim and long enough. With many tools it's pretty much impossible to tighten the tail/nose side baseplate nuts without removing the hanger.
I remember this shit, unit T-tool and ventures from when I was shorter. Good times
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I love the independent axle rethreader cause it has a pilot hole to keep everything straight, and the independent bearing saver T-tool is badass too cause I'm the socket doesn't touch your bearings/fuck up your shields and stuff
The Indy T-tool also works great with Ventures as it's slim and long enough. With many tools it's pretty much impossible to tighten the tail/nose side baseplate nuts without removing the hanger.
I remember this shit, unit T-tool and ventures from when I was shorter. Good times
the little hack i found is using that wrench that came with diamond hardware. this is probably the worst colorway but i still have that little wrench in my backpack because im riding ventures.
(https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51Ei-c03SGL._AC_SX679_.jpg)
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Yooo! I had that wrench in my wallet for like 15 years. Diamond used to be my favorite hardware cause it was like Shorty's lights but with normal size nuts, no crazy colors and they didn't force you to use a colored bolt but it was included extra anyway and they came in those little packages like an edible or something
Now I fux with modus bolts but I'm always intrigued by the girl longne k hardware. I wonder if I got long necks and used them on my DBX, if being that the board is thinner, if the nut would eventually bottom out on the bolt.. hmmmMMMm
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I wonder if I got long necks and used them on my DBX, if being that the board is thinner, if the nut would eventually bottom out on the bolt.. hmmmMMMm
Would be interested in this, too. I think with cast baseplates you'd be fine, but forged may present that issue.
I used to use low-profile nuts (like Shorty's Lights) with my Longneck hardware with forged baseplates and once had that issue where they bottomed out. The threads of the hardware actually sheared off while I was trying to tighten them all the way and I had to cut the bolts off to get my trucks off the board.
After that happened, I only use the normal included nuts and have had no issues, but I don't skate Flight/DBX/VX decks.
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I wonder if I got long necks and used them on my DBX, if being that the board is thinner, if the nut would eventually bottom out on the bolt.. hmmmMMMm
Would be interested in this, too. I think with cast baseplates you'd be fine, but forged may present that issue.
I used to use low-profile nuts (like Shorty's Lights) with my Longneck hardware with forged baseplates and once had that issue where they bottomed out. The threads of the hardware actually sheared off while I was trying to tighten them all the way and I had to cut the bolts off to get my trucks off the board.
After that happened, I only use the normal included nuts and have had no issues, but I don't skate Flight/DBX/VX decks.
Interesting
I have a DBX eagle in the mail, I'll prolly get some longecks and compare with regular 7/8 bolts. I notice the longne ks have the smaller heads, but they're deeper, like wknd bolts and some other ones. Shorty's bolts are my fave, I just wish they didn't come with those stupid nuts, but I got a bunch of regular height nuts at the hardware store so it's all good
One thing I figured out a few years ago was that the shorter nuts that come with Shorty's 7/8s, combined with 3/4 bolts, work with a flight deck and forged baseplates. I was using like, titanium 3/4 bolts and Shorty's nuts for a sec, then I realized I was going too deep into the madness, letting ultralight backpacking infect my skateboard
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Skf bearings with 97 duro spitfires is the best feeling ride ever. About 6 of my homies have tried my set up and switched over since
New or old formula 97’s?
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Skf bearings with 97 duro spitfires is the best feeling ride ever. About 6 of my homies have tried my set up and switched over since
I can only speak for the new ones. I’ve spoken about it so much I’ve been asked if I work for skf. I did email them and asked if I could be their vern laird. Didn’t get the Job but I did get a box in the mail full of product.
New or old formula 97’s?
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Not really THAT hidden but GulfWax. I buy the big blocks from hobby lobby. I'm in FL and left it at a crusty spot. Returned two weeks later, I have a bad habit of leaving it at the park or a spot, and it was unscathed sitting in the florida sun and rain. Shit don't melt!
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Mini logo wheels, suprisingly good for their bargain price.
Honourable mention to their bearings too.
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Topic adjacent - I found what I refer to as a "Zumiez-ass complete" at a vendor mall. The longboard wheels caught my eye, and after looking it over, I realized it was actually worth something.
8.25 Primitive board
149 blacked out Indy's, have to be older, still have the cross on the baseplate
69mm 79a longboard wheels
Thick risers
Fresh bearings
Grizzly grip (ripped that shit off immediately)
$50 out the door.
Parted it out to put together more set-ups for the quiver. Put the wheels on the egg cruiser, skated the deck, holding on to the trucks until I need em.
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Mini logo wheels, suprisingly good for their bargain price.
Honourable mention to their bearings too.
Agreed. Mini logo gear always a solid 7/10. (Aren’t the wheels just unbranded bones 100s?)
My first setup was all mini logo except with thunder trucks, so they’ll always have a place in my heart. Only reason I didn’t get the trucks too was to keep it from being all matchity-match. Ben degros likes ‘em.
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Agreed. Mini logo gear always a solid 7/10. (Aren’t the wheels just unbranded bones 100s?)
Nope, the wheels are made in China but they're still pretty good and downright great for the price. The only Mini Logo wheels that are rebranded bones are the ML AWOL's, which are rebranded Bones ATF. I have the 59mm's on my cruiser and they're great.
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Modus Bearings . The blues are so much better than Bones Reds.
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Agreed. Mini logo gear always a solid 7/10. (Aren’t the wheels just unbranded bones 100s?)
Nope, the wheels are made in China but they're still pretty good and downright great for the price. The only Mini Logo wheels that are rebranded bones are the ML AWOL's, which are rebranded Bones ATF. I have the 59mm's on my cruiser and they're great.
I think the original idea behind minilogo was that Powell acknowledged that you could manufacture quality gear in China but wanted to stay loyal to what they had done in the past, so they lowered the cost and put it under a different brand.
I found a giant grip eraser at the skatepark….
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I found a set of crusty unbranded penny trucks in the bushes near a skatepark.
I don’t know why but I threw them in the car and kept them.
Then the polarizer thing started going off right around COVID, and I cut down an old deck, cleaned up the trucks and threw them on, and holy shit, they turn really fucking good.
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Modus Bearings . The blues are so much better than Bones Reds.
And their hardware is a nice shade of baby blue
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With the recent talk of hardware and tools, I've been wondering why I haven't seen any really good tool specifically for swapping trucks out. Has anyone tried a fixed head ratcheting wrench like this?
(https://i.ibb.co/h1D7z2FL/61-Q27x8-On-RL-AC-SL1500.jpg) (https://ibb.co/h1D7z2FL)
If it works, someone should incorporate that ratchet into a skate tool or I'm just going to buy one and see for myself. Only thing is the head might be too big since the nuts are so close to the rest of the baseplate.
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we talking sliver tool?
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we talking sliver tool?
I forgot about that style so kinda. But I still think a wrench style like I pictured might work better. I can usually get more efficient and comfortable turns with a side handle socket wrench compared to the standard skate tool that can only twist as much your wrist.
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sole tech shoes
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With the recent talk of hardware and tools, I've been wondering why I haven't seen any really good tool specifically for swapping trucks out. Has anyone tried a fixed head ratcheting wrench like this?
(https://i.ibb.co/h1D7z2FL/61-Q27x8-On-RL-AC-SL1500.jpg) (https://ibb.co/h1D7z2FL)
If it works, someone should incorporate that ratchet into a skate tool or I'm just going to buy one and see for myself. Only thing is the head might be too big since the nuts are so close to the rest of the baseplate.
I use them ratchet spanners at work for some equipment, the head is bigger than normal boxed end ones, I'm sure it would hit the base plate.
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With the recent talk of hardware and tools, I've been wondering why I haven't seen any really good tool specifically for swapping trucks out. Has anyone tried a fixed head ratcheting wrench like this?
(https://i.ibb.co/h1D7z2FL/61-Q27x8-On-RL-AC-SL1500.jpg) (https://ibb.co/h1D7z2FL)
If it works, someone should incorporate that ratchet into a skate tool or I'm just going to buy one and see for myself. Only thing is the head might be too big since the nuts are so close to the rest of the baseplate.
I use them ratchet spanners at work for some equipment, the head is bigger than normal boxed end ones, I'm sure it would hit the base plate.
Bummer, thanks for the info.
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Say like the bandages you would wrap a wound with, if you stuff it with paper towels you can make a makeshift pad that still looks a little hesh
Can only do one hand/elbow at a time. Could prolly do both knees depending on your pants
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Not skate related but found a beat up le crussett Dutch oven in my buildings free pile, asked the companies customer service if I could trade it in, they sent me a new one. Cool story bro
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With the recent talk of hardware and tools, I've been wondering why I haven't seen any really good tool specifically for swapping trucks out. Has anyone tried a fixed head ratcheting wrench like this?
(https://i.ibb.co/h1D7z2FL/61-Q27x8-On-RL-AC-SL1500.jpg) (https://ibb.co/h1D7z2FL)
If it works, someone should incorporate that ratchet into a skate tool or I'm just going to buy one and see for myself. Only thing is the head might be too big since the nuts are so close to the rest of the baseplate.
I use them ratchet spanners at work for some equipment, the head is bigger than normal boxed end ones, I'm sure it would hit the base plate.
I'm back in work and it's slow so here you go, here is two 13mm spanners you don't really notice the size difference:
(https://i.ibb.co/MDYjtNLs/IMG-20250908-130901.jpg) (https://ibb.co/MDYjtNLs)
But on 10mm you clearly see the extra metal, threw in a 10mm spanner that I had to take a grinder to for some stupid design..
(https://i.ibb.co/nNX94BNf/IMG-20250908-131040.jpg) (https://ibb.co/nNX94BNf)
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I have this Andale Tool and it has ratcheting feature. HOWEVER - its ONLY for the freaking Axle and Kingpin. Lol... they should have made the Hardware socket the ratcheting one... ;D
at least i have a ratcheting screwdriver ::) (i cant stand using those "allen key" screw drivers that sit in the skate tool)
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i see Jordan 1s and blazer mids at Burlington all the time for like 40 bucks, just put some different insoles in em and they're p much the same as SB dunks or blazers
I saw some cheaper Non SB Blazers in Niagara Falls at SVP Sports (not available online sadly) and i had asked around a decent amount if GT BLazers were much different to the pedestrian ones. No one seemed to have a solid answer for me. Now I am kinda interested to try them out. they seemed very close when i was looking at them in the store, the main thing that put me off was they seemed a lot stiffer?
https://www.svpsports.ca/pages/nike-in-store-only
they also have SB "Chron 2", those sparked my interest.
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With the recent talk of hardware and tools, I've been wondering why I haven't seen any really good tool specifically for swapping trucks out. Has anyone tried a fixed head ratcheting wrench like this?
(https://i.ibb.co/h1D7z2FL/61-Q27x8-On-RL-AC-SL1500.jpg) (https://ibb.co/h1D7z2FL)
If it works, someone should incorporate that ratchet into a skate tool or I'm just going to buy one and see for myself. Only thing is the head might be too big since the nuts are so close to the rest of the baseplate.
I use them ratchet spanners at work for some equipment, the head is bigger than normal boxed end ones, I'm sure it would hit the base plate.
I'm back in work and it's slow so here you go, here is two 13mm spanners you don't really notice the size difference:
(https://i.ibb.co/MDYjtNLs/IMG-20250908-130901.jpg) (https://ibb.co/MDYjtNLs)
But on 10mm you clearly see the extra metal, threw in a 10mm spanner that I had to take a grinder to for some stupid design..
(https://i.ibb.co/nNX94BNf/IMG-20250908-131040.jpg) (https://ibb.co/nNX94BNf)
You had to grind the fixed head one for it to work? If some have features then yeah, no way the ratcheting head will ever fit. Thanks!
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How long until Snap-on gets into skate tools...
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How long until Snap-on gets into skate tools...
The day skateboarders are willing to pay more for their skate tool than their entire skateboard? Haha!
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With the recent talk of hardware and tools, I've been wondering why I haven't seen any really good tool specifically for swapping trucks out. Has anyone tried a fixed head ratcheting wrench like this?
(https://i.ibb.co/h1D7z2FL/61-Q27x8-On-RL-AC-SL1500.jpg) (https://ibb.co/h1D7z2FL)
If it works, someone should incorporate that ratchet into a skate tool or I'm just going to buy one and see for myself. Only thing is the head might be too big since the nuts are so close to the rest of the baseplate.
I use them ratchet spanners at work for some equipment, the head is bigger than normal boxed end ones, I'm sure it would hit the base plate.
I'm back in work and it's slow so here you go, here is two 13mm spanners you don't really notice the size difference:
(https://i.ibb.co/MDYjtNLs/IMG-20250908-130901.jpg) (https://ibb.co/MDYjtNLs)
But on 10mm you clearly see the extra metal, threw in a 10mm spanner that I had to take a grinder to for some stupid design..
(https://i.ibb.co/nNX94BNf/IMG-20250908-131040.jpg) (https://ibb.co/nNX94BNf)
For a non skate thing at work. But yeah they are too thick and honestly too expensive for what you need for skating. Like if you really want just get an electric screwdriver and hold the nut wth a spanner...but be careful as the will sink bolts faster than you can imagine.
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How long until Snap-on gets into skate tools...
(https://i.imgur.com/T5QSggM.gif)
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With the recent talk of hardware and tools, I've been wondering why I haven't seen any really good tool specifically for swapping trucks out. Has anyone tried a fixed head ratcheting wrench like this?
(https://i.ibb.co/h1D7z2FL/61-Q27x8-On-RL-AC-SL1500.jpg) (https://ibb.co/h1D7z2FL)
If it works, someone should incorporate that ratchet into a skate tool or I'm just going to buy one and see for myself. Only thing is the head might be too big since the nuts are so close to the rest of the baseplate.
I use them ratchet spanners at work for some equipment, the head is bigger than normal boxed end ones, I'm sure it would hit the base plate.
I'm back in work and it's slow so here you go, here is two 13mm spanners you don't really notice the size difference:
(https://i.ibb.co/MDYjtNLs/IMG-20250908-130901.jpg) (https://ibb.co/MDYjtNLs)
But on 10mm you clearly see the extra metal, threw in a 10mm spanner that I had to take a grinder to for some stupid design..
(https://i.ibb.co/nNX94BNf/IMG-20250908-131040.jpg) (https://ibb.co/nNX94BNf)
For a non skate thing at work. But yeah they are too thick and honestly too expensive for what you need for skating. Like if you really want just get an electric screwdriver and hold the nut wth a spanner...but be careful as the will sink bolts faster than you can imagine.
The one I saw was around $5 on Amazon. Probably not Snap-On quality but good enough for a skateboard tool. But since it don’t fit, pointless to think about anymore.
As for electric tools, I recently got an electric socket wrench for work that has very low torque that would probably be perfect for skate hardware. Only thing is you’d have to get a skinny extension or socket like the Silver tool for it to fit. Also kinda defeats the purpose of a simple skate tool so I guess something like the Silver is about the best we can get for ratcheting hardware tool.
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How long until Snap-on gets into skate tools...
Why pay for your own tool when you can borrow a homie's tool indefinitely
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I know graphic grip isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but Powell grip is actually really, really good
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I use Wera kit at home/for my bike. I like some of their mini ratchets like this with a smaller head. This one takes square drive or a 1/4" adapter and you avoid bolt clearance issues etc by using a long bit.
(https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71HrJ9WmzvL._UF1000,1000_QL80_FMwebp_.jpg)
I do however have an old Paris tool for my backpack for taking out and about. What I like about this one specifically is that the 10/32" socket has a hole in it so you don't have to worry if your bolts are slightly longer than the truck nylocs:
(https://skatetimber.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/paristool.jpg)
I think there are a few Paris-adjacent brands that have versions of this one.
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I know graphic grip isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but Powell grip is actually really, really good
Used it once when I got a free sheet and it was great but it's like $15, which I just can't get myself to spend. If they just sold it at a regular price in black or with some small logo or something, I'd buy it.
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Does silver still have a patent or some shit on their skate tool? Why isn't any brand doing something similar.
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I do however have an old Paris tool for my backpack for taking out and about. What I like about this one specifically is that the 10/32" socket has a hole in it so you don't have to worry if your bolts are slightly longer than the truck nylocs:
(https://skatetimber.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/paristool.jpg)
I think there are a few Paris-adjacent brands that have versions of this one.
The Ace trucks skate tool is another version of the Paris tool. Also the Ace AF1 version of the tool has a axle and kingpin re-threader built in too.
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how often are yall setting up new boards?
cause i really dont mind taking the time with each
im also not being paid to move fast
and or have another setup ready
am i missing the point
i do skate ventures which are “tougher” to install
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how often are yall setting up new boards?
cause i really dont mind taking the time with each
im also not being paid to move fast
and or have another setup ready
am i missing the point
i do skate ventures which are “tougher” to install
For me, not very often. The point to me was about making better tools if possible but it seems like my specific thought of having the ratcheted head doesn't work with what's currently available so I'm over it. I was willing to spend around $5 just for the wrench itself if it did work but not willing to spend $20 for the Silver tool unless something happens to my current skate tool. So yeah, it's not a big deal at all.
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The Independent (and pretty sure Bronson - NHS) skate T tool with the "bearing saver" lip on the axle nut socket! I don't know why other tools don't have this feature built into the axle socket. It's simple but effective.
It's a simple T tool with everything you need apart from an IKP Allen key. The "bearing saver" lip on the axle socket stops the edge of the socket from damaging or bending the shield/rolling elements of the bearing. It means you don't have to be too careful when you loosen or tighten the nut if you're swapping out wheels or bearings.
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Modus Bearings . The blues are so much better than Bones Reds.
+1 for Modus Blues. Best bearing in the price range. I've been skating them for a year of solid use and they keep getting faster.
I'm also a recent convert for SKF bearings, currently breaking in a set on my cruiser. Smooth, fast and silent. They also have a "lifetime guarantee".
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Modus Bearings . The blues are so much better than Bones Reds.
+1 for Modus Blues. Best bearing in the price range. I've been skating them for a year of solid use and they keep getting faster.
I'm also a recent convert for SKF bearings, currently breaking in a set on my cruiser. Smooth, fast and silent. They also have a "lifetime guarantee".
Wonder if anybody in here tested thar guarantee
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Pals, like said above, the Indy T-tool is the bee's knees and really all you need and goes well with Ventures too.
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I’m into the silly novelty tools, I have a D-tool from carpet company that’s the shape of a weiner, got the evisen butterfly tool, and I got the old world industries pipe tool, T-tools are cool and ge the job done, but are kinda boring, plus I get a chuckle when I hand someone a dick shaped skate tool
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I’m into the silly novelty tools, I have a D-tool from carpet company that’s the shape of a weiner, got the evisen butterfly tool, and I got the old world industries pipe tool, T-tools are cool and ge the job done, but are kinda boring, plus I get a chuckle when I hand someone a dick shaped skate tool
(https://skatepharm.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Photo-14-01-2022-14-14-49-570x570.jpg)
Picked up a Blueprint one for nostalgia's sake
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I do however have an old Paris tool for my backpack for taking out and about. What I like about this one specifically is that the 10/32" socket has a hole in it so you don't have to worry if your bolts are slightly longer than the truck nylocs:
(https://skatetimber.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/paristool.jpg)
I think there are a few Paris-adjacent brands that have versions of this one.
The Ace trucks skate tool is another version of the Paris tool. Also the Ace AF1 version of the tool has a axle and kingpin re-threader built in too.
That would make sense, yeah.
I've not ended up needing a rethreader in a long time, but I've got dies in the toolbox at home anyway. Cool to have on hand though.
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Here's what I was talking about earlier
Bearing press that puts the pressure on the -outer- race, vs. putting the pressure on the inner race which can fuck up the bearing sometimes
I found some washers with a slightly smaller OD than a 608 bearing, and use a smaller washer and an Ace axle rethreader on top
I put one of the big washers on the axle, then press the bearings in by hand with that, then seat them real good with the other washers and rethreader. Not as big of a deal on softer wheels, works great for seating bearings evenly on harder wheels tho
Not a huge deal but it's nice to not force the bearings on using the inner race and potentially fucking em up from day one, nice to keep all the pressure on the outer race
Which is funny cause I don't run shields but hey they still last for years and sound awesome. I just shake em up with some acetone every couple months and spin em dry with canned air
Suppose it doesn't really matter because they're removed by leveraging the inner race anyways usually, but maybe it'll make em last a little longer
(https://i.ibb.co/8gyF2bjn/IMG-20250916-150849499-HDR.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/2B6vNh4/IMG-20250916-150919245-HDR.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/LXrf1875/IMG-20250916-151008068-HDR.jpg)
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In one of my earlier skate madnesses I found a second hand bearing press on eBay for cheap (they seem to be a lot more common/less expensive generally now). It's served me well. I did have a friend who had a specific bearing madness, ended up getting precisely cut washers and spacers to reduce sideways slop, that sort of thing.
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(https://i.ibb.co/8gyF2bjn/IMG-20250916-150849499-HDR.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/2B6vNh4/IMG-20250916-150919245-HDR.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/LXrf1875/IMG-20250916-151008068-HDR.jpg)
You should totally skate it like that and see if anyone says anything. ;D
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Here's what I was talking about earlier
Bearing press that puts the pressure on the -outer- race, vs. putting the pressure on the inner race which can fuck up the bearing sometimes
I found some washers with a slightly smaller OD than a 608 bearing, and use a smaller washer and an Ace axle rethreader on top
I put one of the big washers on the axle, then press the bearings in by hand with that, then seat them real good with the other washers and rethreader. Not as big of a deal on softer wheels, works great for seating bearings evenly on harder wheels tho
Not a huge deal but it's nice to not force the bearings on using the inner race and potentially fucking em up from day one, nice to keep all the pressure on the outer race
Which is funny cause I don't run shields but hey they still last for years and sound awesome. I just shake em up with some acetone every couple months and spin em dry with canned air
Suppose it doesn't really matter because they're removed by leveraging the inner race anyways usually, but maybe it'll make em last a little longer
(https://i.ibb.co/8gyF2bjn/IMG-20250916-150849499-HDR.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/2B6vNh4/IMG-20250916-150919245-HDR.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/LXrf1875/IMG-20250916-151008068-HDR.jpg)
Simple and effective. Reminds me of the bearing press I made when I did the bearings on my 66 c10.
Thanks for sharing that.
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Rad! You're welcome
To the poster before you, that shit doesn't turn at all like that hahahh
plus I got the madness, I be finding where the thread starts on my kingpin and axle nuts, putting a sharpie dot on it, and turning everything the same amount of times. (Which also helps me tell if my nuts are tightene/loosened from landing primo, or if I got axle slip or whatever, I can just check if the sharpie spot has moved)
I would not be able to be rocking some goofy shit but yeah that's just a cheap way to press/seat bearings super straight without putting pressure on the inside race
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To the poster before you, that shit doesn't turn at all like that hahahh
lol
Sounds like good idea. I have the Indy tool, have never thought too much about damaging the bearing. I guess it has happened enough to people to warrant it, though.
I just the crank the nut down till the wheel barely doesn’t spin, then back off half or quarter turn to give it like 1/2 mm of play. Once someone in forum said this a few years ago and never had problems, I just do it too, now.
And hidden gems… probably mini logo bearings: can pop rubber shield off and clean! Pretty good for $10 (well. They used to be $10)
A lot of the good hidden gems have already been listed, including mini logo.
How about rechargeable battery operated power drill? That shit is way quicker than hand tool. No idea why I didn’t do tha when I was younger ::)
Wait a minute… better one: the bones bearing cleaner. The little plastic bottle with the metal screw and washers that hold your bearings in place. That’s an amazing cleaner with acetone, and then finished up with the bones lube drops.
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From some random bmxer, toggle bolts for coping. Tried it today and easier than L bolts and with four 1/4” 90# bolts it doesn’t budge and I even tried slamming it on a test piece with a 5# sledge and shit didn’t break come loose.
Thanks rando bike guy.
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(https://i.ibb.co/JTwMsjm/IMG-8035.jpg) (https://ibb.co/JTwMsjm)Ultrasonic jewelry cleaner from Temu. It was $5! I use it to clean bearings. Remove the shields and clean them separately in Dawn. Place the bearings with the rolling elements facing down. Fill with isopropyl alcohol until it covers the bearings. Turn it on. A few minutes later all the debris is in the bottom below the strainer. Most effective/effortless way I have ever cleaned bearings.
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Modus Bearings . The blues are so much better than Bones Reds.
+1 for Modus Blues. Best bearing in the price range. I've been skating them for a year of solid use and they keep getting faster.
I'm also a recent convert for SKF bearings, currently breaking in a set on my cruiser. Smooth, fast and silent. They also have a "lifetime guarantee".
If I remember correctly the modus bearings are lubricated with grease instead of oil
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Pals, like said above, the Indy T-tool is the bee's knees and really all you need and goes well with Ventures too.
Do you still scratch the truck with the inner bolts? I got a Silver tool because I saw Kader use one in a clip, but the tool and trucks still got scratched from tightening the inner bolts. Allen key and mini wrench from Diamond hardware work on the bolts and wheels, but I still need a tool to adjust the nut on the kingpin.
If someone starts another hardware company, they should recreate the Diamond wrench with a third head that can adjust the kingpin nut. I might do it if I have free time at the end of December.
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(https://i.ibb.co/JTwMsjm/IMG-8035.jpg) (https://ibb.co/JTwMsjm)Ultrasonic jewelry cleaner from Temu. It was $5! I use it to clean bearings. Remove the shields and clean them separately in Dawn. Place the bearings with the rolling elements facing down. Fill with isopropyl alcohol until it covers the bearings. Turn it on. A few minutes later all the debris is in the bottom below the strainer. Most effective/effortless way I have ever cleaned bearings.
I saw this post, googled a few videos, and I'm sold. I'll put it on my Christmas list. Maybe one I can fit a hanger in.
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Pals, like said above, the Indy T-tool is the bee's knees and really all you need and goes well with Ventures too.
The tool can touch the truck occasionally, but it doesn't actually scratch it if you're careful. There's just enough clearance. It works best with a slight angle, with which you can tighten the nuts without leaving any marks on the truck.
Just actually checked my cast Ventures which I've been tightening with the Indy tool and I couldn't really see any tool marks. I mean, the trucks get scratched from skating anyway.
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(https://i.ibb.co/JTwMsjm/IMG-8035.jpg) (https://ibb.co/JTwMsjm)Ultrasonic jewelry cleaner from Temu. It was $5! I use it to clean bearings. Remove the shields and clean them separately in Dawn. Place the bearings with the rolling elements facing down. Fill with isopropyl alcohol until it covers the bearings. Turn it on. A few minutes later all the debris is in the bottom below the strainer. Most effective/effortless way I have ever cleaned bearings.
I saw this post, googled a few videos, and I'm sold. I'll put it on my Christmas list. Maybe one I can fit a hanger in.
I don't know how that works, but: I got a ultrasonic cleaner from my father and used it to clean bike parts and stuff. Once I had a fancy bike chains with some...fancy coating. The coating was mostly gone after cleaning the chains in ultrasonic cleaner. So, it works great if there are no "moving parts" that can rub against each other when it vibrates. I keep a thin kitchen sponge under the items too.
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(https://i.ibb.co/JTwMsjm/IMG-8035.jpg) (https://ibb.co/JTwMsjm)Ultrasonic jewelry cleaner from Temu. It was $5! I use it to clean bearings. Remove the shields and clean them separately in Dawn. Place the bearings with the rolling elements facing down. Fill with isopropyl alcohol until it covers the bearings. Turn it on. A few minutes later all the debris is in the bottom below the strainer. Most effective/effortless way I have ever cleaned bearings.
I saw this post, googled a few videos, and I'm sold. I'll put it on my Christmas list. Maybe one I can fit a hanger in.
I don't know how that works, but: I got a ultrasonic cleaner from my father and used it to clean bike parts and stuff. Once I had a fancy bike chains with some...fancy coating. The coating was mostly gone after cleaning the chains in ultrasonic cleaner. So, it works great if there are no "moving parts" that can rub against each other when it vibrates. I keep a thin kitchen sponge under the items too.
Yeah, it agitates bubbles so effectively that they can wear off coatings etc. This is why most people using them for cleaning and waxing bike chains don't use any anodising or coatings. Any imperfections in the finish/plating/coating are an entry point and it will simply come straight off, even using a neutral cleaning agent.
I think it's overkill for skate bearings but they are pretty convenient. I use a DIY bottle that I made using the same idea as the bones bottle. Degreaser shake/swill > Isopropyl alcohol rinse, quick wipe and the rest evaporates off ready for lubricant.
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after doing more research, it looks like inline speed skaters have been cleaning their bearings with these things for years. None of their bearings seem as grimy as skateboard bearings going in.
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I got an ultrasonic cleaner couple years ago. Still going strong. Havent had to replace a single set of bearings since I got them, though I am on quantums which are great in their own right