Tired of wheel bite ruining your shred session? Or maybe you’re looking to give your board a little extra pop for ollies and flip tricks. Whatever your reason for delving into the world of skateboard risers, you’ve come to the right place. These unassuming pieces of plastic or rubber can dramatically alter your board’s performance, affecting everything from stability and turning to clearance and overall feel. But with so many options out there, how do you find the best skateboard risers that fit your specific needs and riding style?
This comprehensive guide is designed to cut through the clutter and help you make an informed decision. We’ll dive into detailed reviews of top-rated riser pads, dissecting their materials, heights, and intended uses. Whether you’re a seasoned pro seeking a specific setup or a beginner wondering if risers are even necessary, this buying guide will equip you with the knowledge to choose the perfect risers and elevate your skateboarding experience.
Before we get to our review of the best skateboard risers, let’s browse through some relevant products on Amazon:
Last update on 2025-08-28 / Paid links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Understanding Skateboard Risers
Skateboard risers, often referred to as riser pads or shock pads, are essential components that sit between your skateboard trucks and deck. Their primary function is to elevate the deck, increasing the distance between the wheels and the bottom of your board. This seemingly simple addition can significantly impact your skateboarding experience, affecting everything from wheel bite prevention to overall ride feel.
The most common reason skaters opt for riser pads is to prevent wheel bite. Wheel bite occurs when your wheels make contact with the underside of your deck during aggressive turns, which can cause your board to stop abruptly, potentially leading to a fall. By increasing the clearance, riser pads allow for deeper turns and fakie maneuvers without the risk of unwanted wheel contact.
Beyond preventing wheel bite, riser pads can also contribute to a smoother ride. They act as a mild shock absorber, dampening some of the vibrations and impacts from rough terrain. This can be particularly beneficial for street skating or cruising over uneven surfaces, reducing foot fatigue and making your ride more comfortable. The thickness of the riser pad will directly correlate to the amount of shock absorption and clearance gained.
When selecting the best skateboard risers for your setup, consider the size of your wheels and your intended riding style. Larger wheels generally require thicker risers to avoid wheel bite, while thinner risers might suffice for smaller wheels or if you prefer a lower ride height. Experimenting with different thicknesses is often key to finding the perfect balance for your unique needs.
Best Skateboard Risers – Reviews
Riser Pad 1/2 Inch Black by Sector 9 (SKU: RiserPad-12-BLK)
Sector 9 consistently delivers quality skateboarding accessories, and their 1/2 inch riser pads are no exception. These are a fantastic option for riders looking to slightly increase their deck height without drastically altering their board’s feel. They provide a noticeable reduction in wheel bite, allowing for tighter turns and more aggressive carves, especially with larger wheels. The durable black urethane construction feels solid and has held up well to consistent use, resisting cracking and degradation.
If you’re experiencing wheel bite with your current setup or simply want a bit more clearance for cruising or downhill riding, these Sector 9 risers are a smart choice. They install easily with longer mounting hardware and offer a subtle but effective improvement to your ride. For the price and performance, they represent excellent value and are a go-to for many seasoned skaters.
Riser Pad 1/4 Inch Clear by Bones Wheels (SKU: Riser-14-CLR-BW)
Bones Wheels, a legendary name in skateboard components, offers these excellent 1/4 inch clear riser pads. Their slim profile makes them ideal for riders who want minimal increase in deck height while still preventing wheel rub. The clear coloration is a nice aesthetic touch, allowing your deck graphics to show through. They’re made from a durable, impact-resistant plastic that feels sturdy and dependable.
These risers are perfect for setups with medium-sized wheels or for those who prefer a lower deck profile but need a little extra clearance. They effectively absorb minor vibrations and shock, contributing to a smoother ride. Bones’ reputation for quality is evident in these simple yet effective riser pads, making them a reliable upgrade for any skateboard.
Riser Pad 1/8 Inch White by Independent Truck Co. (SKU: IND-RISER-18-WHT)
Independent Truck Co., synonymous with legendary truck performance, also produces reliable riser pads. Their 1/8 inch white risers are incredibly slim, offering the absolute minimum increase in deck height. This makes them perfect for riders who want to prevent slight wheel bite with smaller wheels or who have very tight turning trucks and need just a touch of extra clearance. The white color offers a clean look on most setups.
The material used is a tough, durable plastic that can withstand the rigors of daily skating. While they don’t offer significant shock absorption, their primary function is clearance, which they do very well. For skaters who prioritize a low profile and need a subtle solution to wheel bite, these Independent risers are a solid and dependable choice.
Riser Pad 1/4 Inch Black by Shorty’s Hardware (SKU: RISER-14-BLK-SH)
Shorty’s Hardware is known for its comprehensive range of skateboard parts, and their 1/4 inch black riser pads are a testament to their commitment to riders. These are a versatile option, suitable for a wide range of setups where a moderate increase in deck height is desired to combat wheel bite. The black finish is classic and unobtrusive, fitting in with any aesthetic.
Crafted from a robust nylon composite, these risers are built to last. They provide excellent protection against wheel rub, allowing for more freedom in wheel size selection and turning angles. They’re easy to install and offer a noticeable improvement in the overall rideability of a board by preventing frustrating wheel collisions during turns.
Riser Pad 3/8 Inch Black by Powell Peralta (SKU: PPSC-RISER-38-BLK)
For those needing a bit more lift, Powell Peralta offers their 3/8 inch black riser pads. This size is ideal for larger wheels, or for setups where significant wheel bite is an issue. The slightly thicker profile can also contribute to a subtly different feel for the board, potentially offering a more stable ride at higher speeds. The classic black color is a functional and stylish choice.
Made from a durable, shock-dampening plastic, these risers not only prevent wheel bite but also help to absorb some of the impact from rougher terrain. They’re a great choice for cruisers, longboards, or any setup where larger wheels are used. Powell Peralta’s heritage in skateboarding is reflected in the quality and performance of these reliable riser pads.
Why Skateboarders Buy Risers
Skateboard risers, often called riser pads, are small plastic or rubber spacers that are installed between a skateboard’s deck and its trucks. Their primary function is to increase the distance between the wheels and the underside of the deck. This elevation is crucial for preventing “wheel bite,” a phenomenon where the wheels come into contact with the deck during turns, potentially causing the board to abruptly stop or even throw the rider off. By providing this extra clearance, risers allow for tighter turns and more aggressive carving without the risk of unwanted wheel contact.
Beyond preventing wheel bite, skateboard risers also serve to accommodate larger wheels. Many skaters opt for larger diameter wheels because they roll smoother over rough terrain and maintain momentum more effectively. However, larger wheels are more prone to wheel bite on standard setups. Installing riser pads allows skaters to use these larger, more advantageous wheels without compromising their ability to turn. This makes risers an essential component for riders who prioritize a smoother ride and better speed retention, especially when skating on less-than-perfect surfaces.
Another reason skaters might use risers is for a slight adjustment to their riding stance and feel. A subtle increase in deck height can alter the leverage a rider has when turning. Some riders find this change beneficial for their style, offering a more stable platform or a different responsiveness in their carving. While not as impactful as deck shape or truck geometry, riser height can contribute to the overall personalization of a skateboard setup, allowing riders to fine-tune their board to their specific preferences. The best skateboard risers can make a noticeable difference in this regard.
Ultimately, the need for skateboard risers stems from a desire to optimize performance and prevent common riding issues. Whether it’s to avoid wheel bite, enable the use of larger wheels, or subtly adjust ride feel, these seemingly simple components play a significant role in a skateboarder’s setup. Understanding the purpose of risers allows riders to make informed decisions about their gear and enjoy a more controlled, efficient, and enjoyable skateboarding experience.
Common Riser Pad Heights and Their Uses
Understanding the different heights of riser pads is crucial for selecting the right ones for your skateboarding needs. Riser pads come in various thicknesses, typically ranging from 1/8 inch to 1/2 inch, and sometimes even thicker for specialized setups. Each height offers a distinct advantage, influencing how your board performs and how much clearance you have between your deck and the wheels.
For instance, 1/8-inch riser pads are often used by skaters who want a minimal increase in deck height. This slight elevation can provide just enough clearance to prevent wheel bite on larger wheels or on decks with a wider wheelbase. They are a subtle adjustment that doesn’t drastically alter the feel of the board, making them a popular choice for street skating and transition riding where quick adjustments are key.
Moving up to 1/4-inch or 3/8-inch risers offers a more significant lift. These are commonly chosen by skaters using larger wheels (54mm and up) to avoid wheel bite during hard turns or while landing tricks. They can also contribute to a more stable ride at higher speeds and provide a bit more leverage when popping the tail for ollies.
The thickest common risers, around 1/2 inch, are often seen on cruiser boards or setups with very large wheels, like those used for longboarding or specific downhill disciplines. These extreme heights provide substantial clearance, ensuring no wheel contact even with the biggest wheels and deepest carving. However, they also raise the center of gravity, which can make the board feel less stable for technical tricks.
Choosing the Right Material for Your Riser Pads
The material of your riser pads plays a significant role in their durability, flexibility, and how they impact your ride. While most riser pads are made from plastic, the type and density of that plastic can vary, leading to different performance characteristics. Understanding these differences will help you make an informed decision that suits your skating style.
The most common material for skateboard riser pads is hard plastic, often made from materials like polyurethane or nylon. This hard plastic offers excellent durability and provides a solid foundation, minimizing any flex that could absorb energy during landings. It’s a straightforward and reliable choice for most skaters, offering good protection against impact.
Some riser pads are made from softer, more flexible plastic or even rubberized compounds. These materials can offer a bit more shock absorption, which can be beneficial for reducing vibrations and making your ride more comfortable, especially on rougher terrain. However, softer materials might wear down faster and could potentially flex more, which might not be ideal for aggressive trick skating.
Another factor to consider is the construction of the riser pad. Some are molded as a single piece, ensuring maximum strength. Others might be designed with hollow sections or specific patterns to reduce weight without compromising structural integrity. The quality of the plastic and the manufacturing process will ultimately determine the longevity and performance of the riser pads.
How Riser Pads Affect Board Feel and Maneuverability
The addition of riser pads to your skateboard setup can subtly, yet significantly, alter the way your board feels underfoot and how it handles. This change in “board feel” directly impacts your maneuverability, influencing everything from carving to landing tricks. It’s a delicate balance, and choosing the right riser height and material is key to achieving your desired ride.
Increasing the height of your riser pads effectively raises your deck higher off the ground. This directly affects your leverage over the board. A higher deck can make it feel slightly more floaty, potentially requiring a bit more effort to initiate turns and flips. However, for some, this extra height can provide a more controlled feel during slides and grinds.
The impact on maneuverability is also tied to the potential for wheel bite. By preventing wheel bite, riser pads allow for deeper carves and sharper turns without the jarring interruption of your wheels contacting the deck. This freedom of movement can open up new possibilities in transition skating and cruising, allowing for a more fluid and expressive riding style.
Conversely, if you opt for thicker risers, you’re raising your center of gravity. This can make the board feel less stable at high speeds or during complex aerial maneuvers. Skaters focused on technical street tricks often prefer minimal or no risers to maintain the lowest possible center of gravity for maximum stability and responsiveness.
Troubleshooting Common Skateboard Riser Issues
Even with the best riser pads, skaters can sometimes encounter issues that affect their board’s performance. Understanding these common problems and their solutions can save you frustration and help you maintain an optimal setup. From unexpected wheel bite to premature wear, a little troubleshooting can go a long way.
One of the most frequent problems is, ironically, still experiencing wheel bite even after installing riser pads. This can happen if the riser pads are too thin for the wheels you’re using, or if your trucks are too loose, allowing for excessive turn. In such cases, you might need thicker riser pads or a slight tightening of your truck kingpin.
Another issue can be the longevity of the riser pads themselves. Cheaper or poorly manufactured risers might crack or break under heavy stress, especially during landings of large drops or impacts. If your risers are consistently failing, consider investing in higher-quality pads made from more durable materials and ensure they are properly seated between your deck and trucks.
Lastly, some skaters report a feeling of instability or a loss of “pop” after installing risers. This is often due to the increased distance between the deck and the ground, which alters leverage. If you feel this is the case, try reducing the thickness of your riser pads or experimenting with different truck tightness settings to find a balance that works for your style.
The Ultimate Buying Guide to Finding the Best Skateboard Risers
Choosing the right skateboard risers can significantly impact your riding experience, affecting everything from wheelbite prevention to the overall feel and stability of your board. Whether you’re a seasoned skater looking to fine-tune your setup or a beginner aiming to avoid common pitfalls, understanding the nuances of riser pads is crucial. This guide will walk you through the essential factors to consider, ensuring you make an informed decision and find the perfect risers for your skateboarding needs.
Riser Height (Thickness)
The most defining characteristic of skateboard risers is their height, typically measured in millimeters or fractions of an inch. This height determines how much clearance you gain between your wheels and the deck. Lower risers, generally 1/8″ to 1/4″, offer minimal lift and are often used to fine-tune deck-to-wheel clearance without drastically altering the board’s feel. Mid-range risers, around 3/8″ to 1/2″, provide a more noticeable lift, useful for preventing wheelbite with larger wheels or on decks with a pronounced concave. Higher risers, exceeding 1/2″ and sometimes reaching 1″ or more, offer substantial clearance and are usually reserved for specific setups, such as cruising setups with very large wheels or those looking for a significantly higher ride.
The choice of riser height is largely dictated by your wheel size and truck height. Larger wheels are more prone to rubbing against the deck during turns, a phenomenon known as wheelbite, which can abruptly stop your board and lead to falls. Risers effectively increase the gap, mitigating this issue. Similarly, shorter trucks paired with larger wheels will benefit more from risers than taller trucks. Always consider the combined height of your trucks and risers in relation to your wheel size and deck concave to achieve optimal clearance.
Material and Durability
Skateboard risers are primarily made from plastic, with ABS plastic being the most common choice due to its balance of strength, durability, and affordability. This material is rigid enough to provide a stable platform and withstand the stresses of skating. However, the quality of the plastic can vary between brands and models. Higher-quality ABS plastics will be more resistant to cracking and breaking under pressure, especially during impacts or when over-tightened.
Other materials like nylon or even harder rubber compounds are sometimes used for specialized risers, often offering increased shock absorption or a different flex profile. While generally durable, it’s worth noting that even the best plastic risers can eventually wear down or break, particularly if subjected to extreme forces or if they are too thin for the applied pressure. Inspecting your risers periodically for cracks or stress marks is good practice, especially after landing hard or in situations where the board might have flexed excessively.
Purpose and Riding Style
The intended use of your skateboard and your preferred riding style are paramount in determining the type of risers you need. For street skating and technical tricks, minimal or no risers are often preferred to maintain a low center of gravity and a responsive feel. Even small risers might be used solely to prevent wheelbite with slightly larger wheels without significantly altering the board’s agility.
For cruising, carving, and transition skating, risers can be more beneficial. A slightly higher ride can provide a more stable platform for cruising at speed and can help accommodate larger, softer wheels that offer a smoother ride over rough surfaces. In downhill skateboarding, specialized risers might be used in conjunction with other components to fine-tune stability and steering geometry. The goal is to match the riser’s properties to the demands of your riding discipline.
Compatibility with Trucks and Deck
While most skateboard risers are designed to be universally compatible with standard skateboard truck mounting hardware, it’s always wise to double-check. The bolt hole pattern on the riser should align perfectly with the baseplate of your trucks and the mounting holes on your deck. Standard trucks have four bolt holes arranged in a rectangular pattern, and most risers will mirror this. However, very specific or custom truck designs might have different hole patterns.
The width of the riser should also ideally match or slightly exceed the width of your truck’s baseplate to ensure proper support and prevent the edges of the riser from being exposed and susceptible to damage. While most risers are designed for standard deck widths, wider decks might benefit from slightly wider risers for a more uniform foundation. Ensuring a snug and flush fit between all components will contribute to the overall integrity and performance of your skateboard setup.
Wheelbite Prevention vs. Ride Height Adjustment
It’s important to distinguish between the primary functions of skateboard risers. While they achieve both, your main motivation will guide your choice. If your sole concern is preventing wheelbite, especially after upgrading to larger wheels, a thinner riser (1/8″ to 1/4″) might suffice. These offer just enough clearance to keep your wheels from touching the deck during carving.
Conversely, if you’re looking to raise your entire riding platform for a different feel, perhaps to accommodate larger wheels without necessarily having a severe wheelbite problem, or simply to achieve a higher pop and a more stable ride, then thicker risers will be your preference. It’s a delicate balance; too much riser can make your board feel tippy and less responsive, while too little might not solve the wheelbite issue. Finding the best skateboard risers often involves a bit of experimentation to find this sweet spot.
Additional Features and Aesthetics
Beyond the core function, some risers come with additional features that can enhance your skateboarding experience. Some risers incorporate shock absorption qualities, often through the use of slightly softer or more flexible plastic compounds, which can help dampen vibrations and reduce the impact on your feet and knees, particularly on rougher terrain. Others might feature integrated designs that provide extra reinforcement or a specific aesthetic.
Aesthetically, risers come in a variety of colors and designs. While this is purely a matter of personal preference, choosing colored risers can be a subtle way to add a personalized touch to your board. Some brands even offer risers with unique patterns or subtle branding. Ultimately, these aesthetic choices don’t impact performance but can contribute to the overall satisfaction with your setup.
FAQs
What are skateboard risers and why do I need them?
Skateboard risers, also known as riser pads or shock pads, are pieces of plastic or rubber that fit between your skateboard trucks and deck. Their primary function is to increase the distance between the deck and the wheels. This extra clearance helps prevent “wheel bite,” which occurs when your wheels touch the underside of the deck during turns, causing you to stop abruptly or even fall.
You might need risers if you’re using larger wheels (typically 54mm or larger), have a deck with a significant concave, or if you’re experiencing wheel bite with your current setup. They can also help absorb vibrations from rough surfaces, leading to a smoother ride and reducing the stress on your feet and legs.
How do I choose the right size riser pad?
The thickness of a riser pad is measured in millimeters (mm). Common sizes range from 1/8 inch (approximately 3mm) to 1/2 inch (approximately 13mm) and even thicker. The ideal size depends on the diameter of your wheels and the degree of concave in your deck.
Generally, if you’re using wheels 54mm or larger, a 1/8″ or 1/4″ riser might be sufficient. If you have very large wheels (60mm+) or a deck with a deep concave, you might need a 1/2″ or even a combined setup of risers to completely eliminate wheel bite. It’s often best to start with a smaller riser and see if that resolves the issue, adding a thicker one if necessary.
Will riser pads affect my ollie or pop?
Yes, riser pads will slightly affect your ollie and pop. Because they add height to your trucks, they essentially increase the distance your deck needs to travel upwards when you pop it. This means you’ll need to put a little more effort into your ollie to get the same height.
However, for most skateboarders, this difference is very minor and easily adaptable. The benefits of preventing wheel bite and potentially smoothing out your ride often outweigh the slight increase in effort required for popping. For highly technical skaters focused on maximizing ollie height, the extra height from risers might be a consideration.
What are riser pads made of?
Riser pads are typically made from durable plastics, such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or ABS plastic. Some riser pads also incorporate rubber or polyurethane elements to provide better shock absorption and vibration dampening. The material choice affects the rigidity, durability, and cushioning properties of the riser pad.
The plastic construction ensures that the riser pad can withstand the forces exerted on it during skating, while the inclusion of rubber or other softer materials can significantly enhance the comfort of your ride, especially on rougher terrain.
Are riser pads necessary for all skateboard setups?
No, riser pads are not necessary for every skateboard setup. If you’re using smaller wheels (generally under 53mm) and have a relatively flat deck, you might not experience wheel bite and therefore won’t need risers. Many street skaters who prefer quick responsiveness and a lower center of gravity opt not to use riser pads.
Whether you need risers is primarily determined by the combination of your wheel size, deck concave, and your skating style. If you’re unsure, it’s best to skate your current setup and see if you encounter any issues with wheel bite or if you feel the need for more clearance.
Can I use risers with shorter hardware?
You absolutely cannot use riser pads with your standard skateboard hardware. When you add riser pads, you are increasing the distance between the deck and the trucks, meaning your existing truck bolts (hardware) will likely be too short to properly secure both the truck and the riser pad to the deck.
You will need to purchase longer skateboard hardware, typically measuring 1.5 inches or longer, depending on the thickness of your riser pads. Ensure the new hardware is of good quality and the appropriate length to ensure a secure and safe connection for your trucks.
Do riser pads affect turning or carving?
Riser pads do have a slight effect on your board’s turning and carving capabilities. By increasing the distance between your trucks and the deck, they raise your overall center of gravity. This means that the board will feel a bit more “tippy” and might require a slightly more exaggerated lean to initiate turns.
While the change is usually subtle, some skaters who prioritize a lower, more stable feel for aggressive carving or downhill skating might choose to avoid riser pads. Conversely, the added stability from a slightly higher center of gravity can also be beneficial for some riders, especially those who tend to lean very hard into turns.
Verdict
Choosing the right skateboard risers is a crucial step in optimizing your setup for both performance and protection. By understanding the impact of riser height on wheel bite, stability, and board feel, you can make an informed decision that directly contributes to a more enjoyable and safer skateboarding experience. Whether you’re looking to accommodate larger wheels, reduce the risk of scraping your deck, or simply fine-tune your ride, the information presented in this guide empowers you to select the perfect risers to elevate your skateboarding.
Ultimately, the pursuit of the best skateboard risers is a personal one, tailored to your individual riding style and board specifications. We encourage you to consider the factors discussed, experiment with different heights if possible, and trust your instincts. Investing in quality risers isn’t just about avoiding issues; it’s about unlocking the full potential of your skateboard and ensuring every session is as smooth and confident as it can be.