Sometimes, when you’re about to drop in on a park bench or hit the streets for some sick grinding, you’ll overhear the endless debate of what’s key to nail that trick. Is it the board or the kicks? Trust me, choosing the right skateboard deck can be as heated as defending your favorite skater.
In this post, we’ll dive into the best skateboard tricks and how to master them.
Key takeaways
- Master the ollie as it’s the gateway to advanced skateboard tricks.
- A dependable set of trucks is crucial for achieving control and balance.
- Safety gear is key to ensuring you can keep skating another day.
- Practice, patience, and community support fuel your growth as a skater.
How can you step up your street game with top skateboard tricks?
Whether you’re aiming to impress on the streets or just looking to add some fresh moves to your repertoire, having a solid set of go-to tricks is essential for any skater. Let’s break down those killer maneuvers that not only look amazing but also push your skills to new heights. Preparing for each trick involves more than just guts; it’s about choosing the right gear from trucks for bowls to the most durable decks.
Let’s hit the pavement with an extensive roundup of the best skateboard tricks that’ll have you shredding in no time.
1. Ollie
The ollie is where it all starts, the bread and butter of street moves. It’s the fundamental trick to unlocking almost every advanced move in your arsenal. With a swift downward snap of the tail and a slide of the front foot, you’ll find yourself airborne, ready to take on other tricks or obstacles.
Mastering the ollie paves the way for higher, cleaner jumps and a whole new world of skateboarding possibilities.
Picking out a deck with the right pop can make or break your ollie. Dive into some of the best decks for street skating that’ll help you achieve that crisp snap every skater aims for.
2. Kickflip
Ah, the kickflip: the trick that separates the newbies from the seasoned shredders. It’s the act of flipping your board mid-ollie, with a flick of your ankle, and sticking the landing with sheer precision. Building the muscle memory for a kickflip takes patience, but once you land it consistently, you’ve officially moved up in the skate world.
Fine-tuning a kickflip is not just about repetition; it’s also about having the ideal setup. Learn why having the best bearings can make your board spin just right for that flawless flip.
3. Heelflip
Similar to the kickflip but with its own flair, the heelflip sees the board spinning away from you under your heel. This trick is all about timing and foot placement, and nailing it will definitely rack up some street cred. It’s an exhilarating move that might take a bit to land, but when you do, it’s a game-changer.
For a heelflip, your shoes are as crucial as your board. Get the scoop on why the right sneakers matter with this guide on the best skate shoes for top performance.
4. Pop shove-it
The pop shove-it combines an ollie with a 180° rotation of the board underfoot, without the body rotation. It’s a stylish move that looks great and feels even better once you stick it with control. It hones your board control and sets you up for more complex variations.
What makes a pop shove-it smoother? Surely, it’s all in the trucks. Here’s what you need to know about picking the best beginner skateboard trucks for optimal control.
5. Nollie
The nollie is the ollie’s close cousin but performed by snapping the nose of the board instead of the tail. It’s a little trickier due to the balance required to pop from the front, but it adds a unique touch to your trick list. Mastering the nollie is not only impressive but opens the door to nollie-based variations.
Your board’s nose strength is key for a good nollie. Check out why some boards have the upper hand and how it affects your performance with insights into the best skateboard decks for street skating.
6. Hardflip
It’s in the name – the hardflip is one tough cookie, combining a frontside pop shove-it with a kickflip. It challenges even experienced skaters, demanding impeccable timing and flick technique. When you stick a hardflip, you’re not just landing a trick; you’re making a statement.
What’s the secret behind getting those hardflips just right? Believe it or not, wheel choice plays a part. Dive into the details with a look at the best skateboarding wheels for executing complex tricks.
7. Frontside Boardslide
“In skateboarding, it’s as much about the mindset as it is about physical skills. Striking the right balance between pushing your limits and staying safe can make all the difference in your skateboarding adventure.”
The frontside boardslide is a classic that never fails to impress when grinding down rails or ledges. Approaching frontside, you’ll ollie up and turn 90° to slide along, then hop off with ease. It’s about the thrill of the slide and the mastery of balance.
Good grip tape is essential when locking into and exiting a frontside boardslide. Discover how the right grip can enhance this sliding sensation, leading to smoother and more controlled tricks.
Enjoi Whitey Panda Complete Skateboard
Enjoi Whitey Panda Complete Skateboard
More skateboarding tips
Skateboarding is not just about tricks; it’s a lifestyle that requires dedication, patience, and practice. Boost your skills and stay safe with these insider tips, from making sure you’re geared up the right way to maintaining a positive mindset. Skateboarding is a journey, not a sprint, so savor every ride, every fall, and every victory.
- Always wear protective gear, especially when trying out new tricks
- Keep a skate tool handy to make on-the-go adjustments
- Warm up with stretches to prevent common skateboarding injuries
- Stay updated with new techniques and styles by following famous skateboarders
- Experiment with different skateboards for 6-year-olds to find the sweet spot for your own style
- Embrace the skate culture and community by visiting the best skateparks in the world
- Practice consistently but know when to take a rest day to avoid burnout
- Don’t be afraid to ask for tips from more experienced skaters
- Visualize your tricks before attempting them to build confidence
In skateboarding, it’s as much about the mindset as it is about physical skills. Here’s a handy set of dos and don’ts to keep you on track and pushing your limits the right way.
| Do | Don’t |
|---|---|
| Start with beginner skateboard tricks to learn | Rush into advanced tricks without mastering the basics |
| Check regularly for wear and tear on your equipment | Neglect maintenance; this can lead to injuries |
| Record your sessions to track progress and form | Be too self-critical; celebrate small victories |
| Encourage other skaters; it’s all about community | Interrupt others mid-trick at the skatepark |
| Keep hydrated and energized for each session | Over-exert yourself; listen to your body |
Striking the right balance between pushing your limits and staying safe can make all the difference in your skateboarding adventure.
Advantages and disadvantages of skateboarding
Skateboarding isn’t just an adrenaline rush; it’s a full-fledged sport with its fair share of highs and lows. From the perks of honing balance and coordination to the risks of scrapes and falls, let’s roll through what makes skateboarding a thrilling yet demanding endeavor.
Advantages
- Improves balance, physical coordination, and flexibility
- Fosters creativity and individual expression
- Builds resilience and teaches persistence through practice
- Encourages interaction within a supportive community
- Offers a sense of freedom and control
- Can be a form of transport that’s eco-friendly and cost-effective
- Enhances spatial awareness and reflexes
Disadvantages
- Risk of injuries that could sideline you temporarily or long term
- Requires time and patience to develop skills and nail tricks
- Potentially expensive with gear upgrades, repairs, and park fees
- Subject to weather conditions and finding suitable skating areas
- Could be viewed negatively by non-skaters, impacting skate spots availability
- Possible conflicts with pedestrians and traffic when street skating
In my opinion, as someone still grinding away at perfecting my heelflips and kickflips, the world of skateboarding is as vast as it is rewarding. Unquestionably, learning skateboarding tricks demands time and patience, but it’s the personal style you develop along the way that truly defines your skating identity. Finding your flow and the right skateboard for an 8-year-old can heavily influence your progression.
Take it from me, the right gear matters, but feeling the board and connecting with it is what really counts.
Sure, I’m no Tony Hawk—yet—but take it from an intermediate skater, the camaraderie found at the skatepark is unmatched. It’s a culture of encouragement where experiences like the thrill of nailing a new trick for the first time are shared with equal excitement. Remember, it’s about expressing yourself and having fun, so check out some of the best beginner skateboard trucks and keep rolling towards your goals.
If you are a visual learner, check out this video titled ‘How POSERS do Ollie’s on a skateboard?! #skateboarding #skate #shorts’
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
How usually should I replace my skateboard deck?
It depends on your frequency of skating and the intensity of your tricks. If you notice significant wear, decreased pop, or if the deck feels soggy when you ride, it’s probably time for a new one. Skaters who hit the streets regularly might need to replace their decks every few months.
Can I learn skateboarding tricks at any age?
Absolutely! Skateboarding has no age limit. Start with the basics and progress at your own pace.
Looking for starter boards? There are options for everyone, whether you’re seeking a skateboard for a 5-year-old newbie or picking up the activity later in life.
Is it better to start with street skating or vert skating when learning tricks?
Both have their merits, but most skaters find street skating more accessible to start with. It requires less specialized terrain than vert skating and many tricks can be practiced almost anywhere with flat ground. Once comfortable, you can transition to vert and challenge your skills further.
Final thoughts
As the sun dips below the skyline and the streetlights start to glow, there’s a certain satisfaction in knowing that today’s grind has pushed you a little closer to skateboarding mastery. Whether you’ve landed a crisp ollie or slid your first frontside boardslide, it’s clear that practice and the right mindset are your true allies. Keep your gear in check, warm up those muscles, and always embrace the learning curve—because every slam is just a prelude to your next big trick.
How have these tricks changed your approach to skateboarding? Did I cover everything you wanted to know? Let me know in the comments section belowI read and reply to every comment. If you found this article helpful, share it with a friend, and check out my full blog for more tips and tricks on mastering the craft of skateboarding. Thanks for reading and keep shredding!
