top of page
Search
molineaux

The Evolution of Independent Trucks: A Skateboarding Legacy

Updated: May 13


Table of Contents

  1. Introduction to Independent Trucks

  2. The Birth of Independent Trucks

  3. Design and Technological Advancements

  4. The Iconic Independent Trucks Logo

  5. Controversy and Removal of the Iron Cross Logo

  6. Independent Trucks in the Skateboarding Culture

  7. The Legacy and Impact on Skateboarding

  8. FAQs About Independent Trucks


Introduction to Independent Trucks

Independent Trucks Company, more commonly known as Indy, has been one of the biggest players in skateboarding from its very inception. Most believed them to be the very best trucks in skateboarding, with bombproof durability and performance; they've seen all types of skaters, from beginners to pros, all the way through. This blog post goes into the history that runs from a wild, rebellious start-up to an exalted icon in skate culture and through the controversial decision of ditching their iron cross logo.


The Birth of Independent Trucks

Independent Trucks was formed in 1978 out of Santa Cruz, California. Independent Trucks came out as a way of founding a bad quality of tough and working skateboard trucks out in the market. This company was formed by Richard Novak, Jay Shiurman, Fausto Vitello, and Eric Swenson. It was the introduction of Stage 1 that set new levels of performance and reliability.




Design and Technological Advancements

Independent Trucks have been pioneering in truck design. From the invention of the Stage 2 to the most recent Stage 11 series, innovations have always been on aspects such as lightening, strengthening, and improved turning, among others, to give skateboarders what they desire. These are innovations that have made Independent the front-running brand in skateboarding hardware.



The Iconic Independent Trucks Logo

The iron cross logo was released, and many realized that this was the bold statement that was the Independent brand. The logo had previously been popular with bikers and some counterculture movements, and then with the arrival of skaters, it was adopted—embedded as it was in an attitude of bold defiance that skaters respected. Unfortunately, the symbol also carried a history that would bring about the eventual cessation of its use.





Controversy and Removal of the Iron Cross Logo

The Iron Cross logo increasingly became controversial because it infringed on the growth in awareness and sensitivity toward the meanings of such symbols, originally based in military history, which led toward its adoption by fringe groups. Independent Trucks deemed it fit to phase out the Iron Cross logo, setting this as a general move in getting the brand in line with the inclusive and diverse qualities that modern skateboarding culture was all about.






Independent Trucks in the Skateboarding Culture

Independent Trucks have played the most critical role in the evolution of the skateboarding subculture. They have supported initiatives in the promotion of skateboard events, professional and amateur skateboarders, and community development centered on skateboarding. It is very cultural and not just hardware.



The Legacy and Impact on Skateboarding

The legacy of Independent Trucks lies in the fact of having kept the skate industry alive for a good amount of time and being able to hold ground. Indy has been able to be the favorite choice of skaters across the globe, putting quality and performance ahead. Truly, the commitment to the sport and its culture was what really put it as a fixture in the history of skateboarding.




FAQs About Independent Trucks


Why did Independent Trucks stop using the iron cross logo?

Independent Trucks removed the iron cross logo in order to represent in an all-embracing way the skateboarding community's values and the brand distance itself from the historical and cultural charges linked to the symbol.



What sets Independent Trucks apart from the other brands of skate truck?

Independent Trucks has always made durable, high-performance products. Our original geometry and best-material manufacturing yield the best value in the market, which is the reason why they are mass approved by all levels of skaters.



Are Independent Trucks good for beginners?

Yes, Independent Trucks are good for beginners and advanced riders with their stable, solid construction.



How Often Does Independent Trucks Release New Models?

Independent Trucks releases updates to their models whenever needed, typically about once every few years, to help implement new technologies and skater feedback into the models.



Where can I find Independent Trucks?

Independent Trucks are available at most of the skate shops throughout the world. They can also be purchased via a number of online dealers and the company's official website.



Can old Independent Trucks models be used even today?

Yes, old Independent Trucks models are considered great finds by collectors and skaters who are in love with vintage gear. These are still functional in operation. However, some improvements can be made from the newer models in terms of performance and weight.

195 views0 comments

Comments


bottom of page