Boardslides are among the most exhilarating tricks in skateboarding. Once you master it, the boardslide becomes a go-to move for style and versatility. In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down the fundamentals of a boardslide and offer tips to help you perfect the trick. Don't forget to check out our Instagram tutorial and give us a follow for more skateboarding tips!

Prerequisites: What You Need to Know Before Attempting a Boardslide

Before diving into the boardslide, make sure you're comfortable with the basics. Here are two essential tricks you should master first:

• The Ollie: The foundational move for getting your board off the ground.
• The Frontside 180: Helps with the rotational movement required for boardslides.

Step 1: Practice Popping Onto a Feature

Starting small is crucial when learning how to boardslide. Find a low, stable obstacle like a parking curb or ledge. Practice ollieing onto the center of your board. The goal here isn’t necessarily to slide but to get comfortable with popping onto the feature. If you can pivot off, that’s great! If not, focus on maintaining control as you land in the center of your board.

Step 2: Progress to Sliding on a Small Ledge or Rail

Once you’re confident with popping onto a stationary feature, it’s time to add some speed. Approach a small rail or ledge at a comfortable pace. Start by aiming to slide only the end of the rail or ledge. Remember, speed can be your friend—often, a bit more speed helps with the slide. As you gain confidence, gradually increase your speed and aim for a longer slide.

Step 3: How to Land Your Boardslide

Landing a boardslide can be done either fakie or regular, depending on what feels most natural to you. As you reach the end of the rail, give your board a slight nudge to return it to regular stance or rotate it into fakie. The key is to straighten your board in the air and aim to land squarely on the bolts for a solid finish.

Step 4: Focus Points: Where to Look During a Boardslide

Your eyes play a crucial role in guiding your boardslide. Before you ollie, focus on the end of the rail—the point where you plan to finish your slide. This focus helps you align your approach. As you ollie on, keep your gaze on the rail ahead but maintain awareness of your endpoint. This focus ensures you stay on course and execute the trick cleanly.

Conclusion: Practice Makes Perfect

Boardslides require practice, but with dedication, they become one of the most enjoyable tricks in your skateboarding arsenal. Remember to start small, focus on your technique, and gradually build up your confidence and speed. Now, grab your board and start practicing—soon, you'll be sliding with style!