When it comes to fingerboarding, millimeters count. Whether you're a new user of the hobby or a pro looking to hone in on your kickflips and manuals, deciding between 32mm and 34mm fingerboard trucks is one that will color your overall experience.
If you've ever been left scratching your head, thinking, "What's the real difference between 32mm and 34mm trucks—and does it matter?" then don't worry, you're not crazy. In this piece, we'll tear down the advantages, disadvantages, and fine points of each size so that you can make the most informed decision for your own setup and skating style.
Why Truck Size Even Matters
Before we get to the comparison, let's just touch on why truck width matters to begin with. Trucks are the metal pieces mounted under your fingerboard that support the wheels and enable turns and tricks. Not only do trucks affect your control and balance, but also your board's feel when executing technical tricks such as grinds, flips, or slides.
In simple words: your truck width must match your deck width for maximum performance.
What Are 32mm Trucks?
32mm trucks have traditionally been used as the universal size in the world of fingerboards. Most decks and configurations were built based on the 32mm width for years, and many novice fingerboarders begin with this size even today.
Advantages of 32mm Trucks
- More technical sensation: Since they're a bit narrower, 32mm trucks make the deck feel more responsive to your fingertips, particularly for flip tricks.
- Tighter turns: Narrower profile provides tighter pivots and turns, beneficial for tech trick combos.
- Wider deck availability: Most fingerboard decks in the past (and many that exist today) are made for 32mm configurations.
Drawbacks of 32mm Trucks
- Less stability: Some riders feel they don't have the stability required for balance-based tricks such as manuals.
- Limited aesthetic balance: On wider decks (such as 34mm), 32mm trucks can look and feel slightly "off," since they don't fit the board's width.
What Are 34mm Trucks?
As fingerboarding progressed, wider setups gained popularity—particularly in pro and freestyle riders. Enter 34mm trucks. They are meant for contemporary 34mm decks, providing a wider stance and varied feel under your fingers.
Advantages of 34mm Trucks
- More stability: Wider base provides more control on balance tricks such as nose manuals and pivots.
- More realistic proportions: Most fingerboarders comment that the 34mm setup is closer to having a mini replica of an actual skateboard.
- Improved grind control: Wider truck surface equals smoother and more forgiving grinds.
Disadvantages of 34mm Trucks
- Less responsive for flips: Wider setups can feel slightly slower or "floaty" for quick flip tricks.
- Not suitable for small hands: If you have small fingers or are new, 34mm may feel cumbersome.
Head-to-Head: 32mm vs 34mm Trucks
Here's a breakdown by category:
Feature: Control
- 32mm Trucks: More responsive for flips
- 34mm Trucks: More stable for manuals
Feature: Aesthetic
- 32mm Trucks: Classic, compact look
- 34mm Trucks: Balanced with wider decks
Feature: Performance
- 32mm Trucks: Great for tech tricks
- 34mm Trucks: Ideal for flow/grind tricks
Feature: Deck Compatibility
- 32mm Trucks: Best with 32mm decks
- 34mm Trucks: Best with 34mm decks
Feature: Skill Level
- 32mm Trucks: Beginner to intermediate
- 34mm Trucks: Intermediate to advanced
Which One Should You Choose?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer—your dream setup relies on your style, preferences, and goals.
Select 32mm Trucks if
- You enjoy executing flip tricks, combos, and tech maneuvers
- You're using a 32mm deck or don't mind a little mismatch
- You want something that feels light and snappy under your fingers
Choose 34mm Trucks if
- You love doing manuals, pivots, and balance-focused tricks
- You have a 34mm deck and want a perfectly matched setup
- You're aiming for a more realistic or street-style fingerboard feel
A Note on Deck and Truck Matching
One important tip: Always try to match your trucks to your deck width. A 32mm truck on a 34mm deck can lead to instability, while 34mm trucks on a 32mm deck can look and feel awkward.
If you're investing in a premium deck—like those from Obsidian, Abstract, or Pop Decks—make sure to check the specs and grab trucks that pair correctly.
Pro Fingerboarder Opinions
Most professional fingerboarders these days prefer 34mm setups for a more realistic, stable experience, particularly when shooting video parts or tackling skate-style terrain like ledges and rails. But there are still plenty of freestyle-oriented fingerboarders who prefer 32mm for that technical, precise feel.
The reality is, even the professionals use it interchangeably based on what tricks they are doing. You may find one size is best for a particular trick style, and then another works for everyday practice or just cruising around.
Last Thoughts: Experiment With Both and Discover What Works
Fingerboarding is personalization and creativity. The best way to see what truck size suits your style is to experiment with both. There are riders who even maintain two setups—a 32mm for tricks and a 34mm for flow sessions.
You can start with a combo pack or test setup with adjustable trucks and decks if you're just beginning. Your fingers will over time lead you to what feels comfortable.
Whatever you select, don't forget this: The ideal setup is the one that gets you more tricks and more fun.
Ready to improve your setup?
Check out high-quality pro fingerboard trucks in 32mm and 34mm sizes from manufacturers such as Obsidian, Abstract, and Pop Decks. Find your ideal setup and notice every millimeter of difference.