Surfskate Bushings

In surfskate bushings, the urethane hardness determines truck behavior more than the brand: a 90a bushing offers greater sensitivity in turning and smooth carving, while a 100a provides stability and direct response at speed. Added to this is the type of bushing, barrel for smooth movement, cone for faster turning—which completely changes how the board responds under the rider’s weight.

How to choose bushings and cushions for your surfskate: hardness, types, and components

What are bushings and suspension cushions in surfskate?

Surfskate bushings are the key elements of the suspension system. These urethane cushions act as the connection between the trucks and the board structure, supporting the rider’s weight load and minimizing vibrations. Their hardness, measured in durometer (90a, 95a, 100a), determines whether the board turns easily or maintains stability at speed. The type of cushion—barrel for smooth movement, cone for quick turning—completes the behavior of the surfskate.

What is the role of bushings in the trucks and turning of a surfskate?

Surfskate bushings are responsible for the quality of the turn and the stability of the trucks. Their main function is to support suspension loads while minimizing vibrations and allowing the board to respond to movement. Incorrect hardness in the cushions directly affects the feel: too soft, and you lose control at speed; too hard, and you limit smooth carving. That’s why choosing the right hardness according to weight and riding style is what really makes the difference between a board that turns naturally and one that feels uncomfortable or unpredictable.

In practice, if your surfskate tends to turn too slowly, the first question I ask myself is whether the bushing hardness is appropriate before thinking about changing boards; often, a softer cushion solves the problem.