Want to practice your ollies and improve your skills on a skateboard without getting all the bumps and bruises? Then you want to try Softrucks. Softrucks (softrucks.com) are hard rubber trucks that take the place of regular skate wheels under the skateboard deck.

When I stepped on the Softruck board, I immediately felt confidence in my balance and even tried to pop an ollie -- knowing that when I landed, the board wouldn't roll from under my feet. The practice trucks offer riders of all abilities a sturdy platform for developing and improving board skills. You can practice better balance, stability and tricks so you can progress at a faster rate and not wear out your body by trying to learn the basics. Location and weather are not important, and the training is a lot safer until a trick really works.

Softrucks are usually found in any skateboard shop, or you can order one on their website at www.softrucks.com