Before testing these risers, I didn’t realize how much wheel bite and vibration could ruin a skate session. I’ve pushed through countless board sensations, and these issues really slow you down. After trying different options, I found that the Independent Genuine Parts 1/8″ RISERS truly made a difference—solid, reliable, and effective at preventing hardware loosening and cracks, especially during technical tricks.
These risers are made from tough, tried-and-true materials and are approved by professional skaters—so you know they’re built for action. They add just the right height to prevent wheel bite while maintaining board stability. Compared to the Dogtown 1/2″ risers, which are thicker and better for bigger pop, the 1/8″ risers excel at locking in performance without sacrificing your board’s feel. After thorough testing, I recommend the Independent Genuine Parts 1/8″ RISERS for their key balance of durability, performance, and value.
Top Recommendation: Independent Genuine Parts 1/8″ RISERS Single Set
Why We Recommend It: These risers offer a durable, high-quality hard material that effectively prevents vibration, loose hardware, and cracks. Their 1/8″ thickness strikes an ideal balance—preventing wheel bite while keeping your board close to its natural feel. Unlike thicker options, they don’t compromise responsiveness or pop, making them perfect for most skateboarding styles.
Best risers for skateboard: Our Top 2 Picks
- Independent Genuine Parts 1/8″ RISERS Single Set – Best risers for skateboard trucks
- Dogtown 1/2″ Black Skateboard Risers for Old School Boards – Best risers for skateboarding
Independent Genuine Parts 1/8″ RISERS Single Set
- ✓ Durable solid construction
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✓ Prevents wheel bite
- ✕ Slightly more expensive than basic risers
- ✕ Adds a bit of height to your setup
| Material | Solid hard plastic (likely polypropylene or similar durable plastic) |
| Thickness | 1/8 inch (3.175 mm) |
| Compatibility | Fits standard skateboard trucks (independent trucks specifically) |
| Number of Pads | Two pads per set, suitable for one skateboard with two trucks |
| Purpose | Prevent wheel bite, reduce vibration, prevent board cracks, and secure hardware |
| Brand | Independent Truck Co. |
There was a moment when I finally installed these Independent 1/8″ riser pads on my skateboard, and I immediately felt a difference. The solid feel of the hard riser pads makes it clear they’re built to last, and the fact that they’re slightly thicker than typical risers gave me more confidence in protecting my deck.
What stood out is how easy they are to install—just slide them onto your trucks, and you’re good to go. The size is perfect for a standard setup, covering enough surface to prevent wheel bite without adding unnecessary bulk.
Plus, knowing these are tried and approved by the Indy team gives me peace of mind about their quality.
I noticed a significant reduction in vibrations when cruising over rough terrain, which made my ride smoother. They also help keep hardware tight, so I didn’t have to re-tighten bolts after each session.
The added height really helps if you’re riding larger wheels or doing tricks that risk board cracks.
At just over $8, they’re an affordable upgrade that offers real value. I appreciate that they’re designed to protect your deck and hardware, extending the lifespan of your skateboard.
Overall, these risers hit the sweet spot between durability and ease of use, making them a solid choice for anyone looking to improve their setup.
Dogtown 1/2″ Black Skateboard Risers for Old School Boards
- ✓ Prevents wheel-bite effectively
- ✓ Adds ride height for bigger pop
- ✓ Fits both old & new school boards
- ✕ Slightly increases deck height
- ✕ Might not suit low-profile setups
| Material | Plastic or durable composite suitable for skateboard risers |
| Size | 1/2 inch thickness |
| Compatibility | Fits both old school and new school skateboards with any bolt pattern |
| Purpose | Prevent wheel-bite and increase ride height for bigger pop |
| Quantity | Pair of risers (2 pieces) |
I was surprised to find that these Dogtown risers were thicker than I expected—almost like adding a mini cushion between your wheels and deck. At first, I thought, “Will this change my board’s feel too much?” but it actually turned out to be a game-changer for my setup.
Installing them was straightforward. The pair slid right onto my old school board’s bolt pattern without any fuss, and they fit snugly.
What really caught my attention was how much more room I had to carve without worrying about wheel-bite. It’s like giving your board a little extra personality and height.
Skateboarding is all about control, and these risers gave me that—plus a bit more pop for tricks. I appreciated that they worked equally well on my new school deck, so versatility isn’t an issue.
They also seem durable enough to withstand regular use, which is pretty important for street skating.
Honestly, I didn’t expect risers to make such a difference, but these Dogtown ones really do. For the price, they’re a simple upgrade that can boost your ride’s comfort and performance.
Whether you’re into cruising or tricks, having that extra clearance really helps keep everything smooth.
Just one thing to keep in mind: if you prefer a very low-profile setup, these might add a bit of height you don’t want. Otherwise, they’re pretty much perfect for a safer, more confident skate.
What are Skateboard Risers and How Do They Work?
Skateboard risers are essential components that serve to enhance performance and provide additional clearance between the skateboard deck and the trucks.
- Shock Absorption: Risers help absorb shocks from impacts during tricks or jumps, reducing the risk of damage to the skateboard and improving rider comfort.
- Wheel Clearance: They provide additional height, preventing the wheels from making contact with the deck during sharp turns or aggressive maneuvers, which can lead to wheel bite.
- Customization: Risers come in various thicknesses and materials, allowing skaters to customize their ride according to personal preferences or specific skating styles.
- Stability: By raising the trucks, risers can enhance stability during tricks and high-speed riding, making it easier to balance and control the board.
- Vibration Dampening: Certain riser materials can help dampen vibrations, leading to a smoother ride, especially on rough surfaces.
Shock absorption is vital for skaters who perform tricks that involve jumps, as risers can reduce the impact forces transferred to the board, enhancing durability and rider comfort.
Wheel clearance is critical in preventing wheel bite; risers create enough space to avoid the wheels touching the deck, particularly during sharp turns or when landing tricks, which can lead to falls.
Customization options in risers allow skaters to choose the perfect height and material to suit their riding style, whether they prefer a lower profile for technical tricks or a higher riser for added stability during cruising.
Stability during tricks and high-speed maneuvers is enhanced with risers, as the raised trucks provide better leverage and balance, making it easier for skaters to execute their moves.
Vibration dampening is beneficial for skaters who ride on rough terrain; certain risers can absorb vibrations, leading to a more comfortable and controlled riding experience.
Why Should You Use Risers on Your Skateboard?
According to a study published by the Journal of Sports Engineering and Technology, risers can increase the clearance between the wheels and the skateboard deck. This added height allows for larger wheels to be used, reducing the chances of wheel bite, which occurs when the wheel makes contact with the deck during sharp turns or tricks. This can lead to falls and injuries, making risers a valuable safety feature.
The underlying mechanism involves the distribution of weight and the dynamics of skateboard movement. When a rider leans into a turn, the board flexes, and the wheels can come close to the edges of the deck. By installing risers, the distance between the wheels and the deck increases, allowing for greater maneuverability without the fear of the wheels hitting the deck. Additionally, risers can absorb some of the shocks from landings, leading to a smoother ride and reduced fatigue during long sessions.
What Types of Skateboard Risers Are Available?
The main types of skateboard risers available include:
- Standard Risers: These are the most common type and are typically made from plastic or rubber. They are designed to provide a minimal lift between the skateboard deck and the trucks, helping to absorb shock from landing and reducing wheel bite.
- Shock Pads: Shock pads are thicker and softer than standard risers, often made from rubber or foam materials. They are specifically engineered to absorb impacts more effectively, making them ideal for riders who engage in tricks or ride on rough surfaces.
- Drop Pads: Drop pads are a variation that features a lower profile than standard risers, which can help with stability and control during tricks. They are often used by skaters who prefer a closer connection to the board and a more responsive feel.
- Angle Risers: These risers have a wedge shape that raises one side of the truck, which can help improve the turning radius of the skateboard. They are beneficial for skaters looking to enhance their cornering abilities and overall maneuverability.
- Custom Risers: Custom risers can be made from various materials and designed to specific specifications based on a skater’s needs. This type allows for personalization, enabling riders to choose their preferred height, material, and even design to match their style.
Are Hard Risers Better Than Soft Risers?
The performance impact of risers is crucial—hard risers generally allow for more precise control and quicker response times, while soft risers can make the board feel more forgiving and easier on the joints during landings.
Height variation in risers can also play a significant role in how a skateboard handles. Taller risers can prevent wheel bite, allowing for larger wheels to be used, but they may also raise the center of gravity, which can affect stability. Conversely, shorter risers keep the board closer to the ground, enhancing stability but potentially leading to wheel bite with larger wheels.
How Do Different Shapes of Risers Affect Performance?
The shape of risers can significantly influence skateboard performance, affecting everything from stability to shock absorption.
- Flat Risers: These risers are simple, providing a direct connection between the board and trucks. They maintain a low profile, which helps in keeping the center of gravity low, resulting in better stability and control during tricks.
- Angled Risers: Designed to tilt the trucks outward, angled risers can enhance turning capabilities. By increasing the truck’s angle, they allow for sharper turns, making them ideal for skaters who enjoy carving and street skating.
- Shock Absorbing Risers: Made from softer materials, these risers help in reducing the impact from landings and rough surfaces. They can significantly improve comfort during rides by minimizing vibrations and absorbing shocks, which is beneficial for skaters who prioritize a smooth ride.
- Wedge Risers: These risers are sloped on one side and flat on the other, providing a unique angle for better maneuverability. They enhance performance by giving skaters the ability to customize their setup, allowing for improved stability or responsiveness depending on the desired angle.
- Offset Risers: Featuring a design that shifts one side higher than the other, offset risers can improve wheel clearance and prevent wheel bite. This is crucial for skaters who prefer larger wheels or perform tricks that involve extreme angles, ensuring a smoother ride without interruptions.
How Do You Choose the Right Riser for Your Skateboard Setup?
Some risers are designed to provide better shock absorption, which can improve comfort during rides; this is especially important for riders who frequently skate on rough surfaces or perform tricks that involve landing impacts.
What Factors Impact Riser Height Selection?
Personal Preference: Ultimately, personal preference plays a crucial role in riser height selection. Some riders may favor a more stable ride with higher risers, while others might prefer a more responsive setup with lower risers, influencing their choice significantly.
How Can Material Types Influence Ride Quality?
- Plastic Risers: Plastic risers are lightweight and provide moderate shock absorption. They are often used for street skating due to their affordability and ability to dampen vibrations from rough surfaces.
- Rubber Risers: Rubber risers excel in shock-absorbing properties, making them ideal for riders who frequently skate on uneven terrain. They help reduce impact on the skateboard deck and enhance comfort during tricks and landings.
- Wood Risers: Wood risers are less common but offer a unique aesthetic and a natural feel while riding. They can provide a slight flex, which may improve ride quality for some skaters by adding a touch of responsiveness.
- Metal Risers: Metal risers are known for their durability and strength, making them suitable for heavy-duty use. They offer minimal shock absorption but provide excellent stability and support, which is beneficial for aggressive riding styles.
- Composite Risers: Composite risers combine materials like plastic and rubber to offer a balanced performance. They aim to provide both durability and shock absorption, making them a versatile choice for various skating styles.
What are the Benefits of Installing Risers on Your Skateboard?
The benefits of installing risers on your skateboard include improved performance, protection, and enhanced comfort.
- Increased Wheel Clearance: Risers elevate the skateboard deck, providing extra space between the wheels and the board. This helps prevent wheel bite, which occurs when the wheels come into contact with the deck during sharp turns or tricks, leading to potential falls.
- Shock Absorption: Many risers are made from materials that absorb shock, which can minimize the impact felt during jumps and landings. This added cushioning can help reduce fatigue on your feet and legs, allowing for longer and more comfortable sessions.
- Improved Stability: Installing risers can enhance the overall stability of your skateboard setup. By raising the deck, the center of gravity is adjusted, which can lead to a more stable ride, especially when skating at higher speeds or performing tricks.
- Customization Options: Risers come in various heights and materials, allowing skaters to customize their setup according to personal preference. Whether looking for a low-profile or higher riser, skaters can fine-tune the feel of their board to match their riding style.
- Protection of the Deck: By creating space between the wheels and the skateboard deck, risers help reduce wear and tear on the deck itself. This protection can extend the lifespan of your skateboard by preventing damage from impacts and abrasions.
How Can You Properly Install and Maintain Skateboard Risers?
To properly install and maintain skateboard risers, follow these essential steps:
- Selecting the Right Risers: Choosing the best risers for your skateboard is crucial for performance and safety. Look for risers that fit your truck size and match your riding style, whether you’re into street skating, vert, or cruising.
- Installation Process: To install skateboard risers, you’ll need to remove your trucks, place the risers between the deck and the trucks, and then reattach the trucks securely. Make sure to tighten the bolts evenly to prevent any wobbling during rides.
- Regular Maintenance: Maintaining your risers involves checking for cracks, wear, or any loosening of screws periodically. Regularly inspect the risers, especially after heavy use or impacts, and replace them if they show signs of damage to ensure a smooth ride.
- Adjusting Height and Shock Absorption: Risers can provide extra height and shock absorption, which is beneficial for larger wheels or tricks that involve more impact. Select risers that offer the right height for your needs, as they can also affect your board’s stability and turning radius.
- Compatibility Check: Always ensure that the risers you choose are compatible with your skateboard setup, including the deck size, truck type, and wheel diameter. Mismatched components can lead to performance issues and increase the risk of accidents.