Kickflip

Difficulty Level: IntermediateTail

The first flip trick every skateboarder learns.

The kickflip is a foundational flip trick where the board spins along its longitudinal axis after you 'kick' it with your front foot. It's a benchmark for progressing into more advanced tricks.

Skateboarder performing a Kickflip
Prerequisite:

Ollie

🎯 Unlock the flip!

Discover the precise foot flick and timing needed to make your board spin and land perfectly.

👟 Foot Positioning

1. Front Foot Position

Start with your front foot in your regular ollie position, then slide it slightly towards the edge of the board, letting your heel hang off a bit more. Find a comfortable spot near the front bolts. This gives you more room to flick.

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2. Back Foot Position

Place the ball of your back foot in the absolute center of the tail, just like for an ollie. Avoid letting it hang off any edge to ensure a straight, solid pop.

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📈 Detailed Kickflip Execution

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1

Bend Down

Bend your knees as much as you can, putting all your weight down. A deep bend is crucial for a powerful pop and giving you enough time in the air for the board to flip.

2

Pop

Snap up and shift most of your weight to your back foot as you pop the tail hard into the ground. This is where the upward momentum comes from.

3

Flick

Don't flick immediately. Wait for the board to come up an inch or two off the ground. Then, turn your ankle and flick your front foot up and out at an angle, aiming for the front pocket of the nose. It's a quick flick off the edge of your toe.

4

Catch & Land

Keep your shoulders square and parallel with the board throughout the trick. Watch the board rotate, catch it with your feet over the bolts, and bend your knees to absorb the impact.

💡

Golden Tip!

To get comfortable with the flick motion, try practicing while sitting on a curb or chair. This isolates the movement and helps build muscle memory without the fear of falling.

⚠️ Common Mistakes

⚠️

Board flies in front of you: You are likely leaning back too much. Keep your weight centered and shoulders square over the board.

⚠️

Flicking too soon: Many people flick as they pop. Wait for a slight delay, letting the board rise before you flick.

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Board does not fully rotate: Your flick might be too weak or aimed down. Flick up and out, towards the nose pocket.

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Chicken foot (landing with only one foot): A common commitment issue. Trust the process and consciously try to land with both feet on the board.

Watch this detailed tutorial to master your Kickflip:

Video Tutorial

Credits: Tom Rohrer

Watch on YouTube

🏆 Congratulations! You made it to the end!

Now it's time to practice! Remember: consistency is the key to success.