So, you’ve mastered the ollie and are itching to learn your first flip trick? The big question arises: should you start with the heelflip or the kickflip? Is one truly easier than the other, or is it down to personal preference? Let’s delve into the nuances of these two fundamental skateboarding tricks.
While kickflips often feel easier to rotate due to a more open upper body posture, they can present a challenge in maintaining balance during the setup. Conversely, heelflips may feel a bit more awkward at first but might provide better stability. Ultimately, the “easier” trick is subjective and largely depends on individual preference and what feels more natural. The best approach is to try both and see which one resonates better with your body mechanics.
Understanding the Kickflip and Heelflip
Flip tricks are characterized by at least a 360-degree rotation of the skateboard around its horizontal axis. Kickflips and heelflips are the bedrock for more complex flip variations. Think of them as the Yin and Yang of skateboarding, each offering a unique challenge and feel.
A kickflip involves a 360-degree rotation of the board behind you. For regular-footed skaters, this rotation is counter-clockwise; for goofy-footed skaters, it’s clockwise. The technique involves using your front foot’s toes to flick the board out from the heel-side pocket of the nose.
Skateboarder performing a kickflip
On the other hand, the heelflip is a 360-degree rotation of the board in front of you. This rotation is clockwise for regular-footed skaters and counter-clockwise for goofy-footed skaters. It is executed by using the heel of your front foot to flick the board towards the top corner of the nose.
Which Flip Trick Should You Learn First?
The truth is, there’s no hard and fast rule dictating whether to learn heelflips or kickflips first. It truly boils down to your comfort level and the body posture that feels more natural to you. Heelflips often involve a more closed shoulder stance and a wider foot placement, while kickflips demand a more open upper body to facilitate the flick behind you.
Some skaters, like the original author, find heelflips easier to grasp initially, while others gravitate towards the kickflip from the get-go. The key is to experiment with both. There is no “correct” order, and learning either will ultimately assist you in mastering the other. This will unlock a world of variations that stem from these two fundamental flips.
How Challenging is a Kickflip?
Landing your first flip trick, be it a kickflip or a heelflip, is a significant undertaking that can take time. Some skaters might nail it relatively quickly, while others might find it takes years of consistent practice. For most regular skaters, a reasonable timeframe to expect progress would be around six months.
Don’t be disheartened by videos of skaters learning these tricks in a single day. Unless you are unusually focused, gifted, or lucky, it is likely going to require a significant investment of time and effort.
Skateboarder performing a kickflip
A helpful tip is to break down the movement into its individual components and practice each one separately. This way, you can identify areas where you’re struggling and address them. For example, focus on mastering the flick before jumping onto the board.
Mastering the Kickflip While Moving
If you find it difficult to perform a kickflip while stationary, try it while rolling. Although this can make the board flip faster, it will require more control to keep the board underneath you.
Usually, skaters attempt tricks while rolling after they have achieved a high degree of board control and have mastered the basics. If you have that level of confidence, then rolling may be a good option.
However, the most effective method to learn any flip trick is to start stationary and utilize a rail or fence for support. This reduces the risk of falls and helps you gain extra hang time.
The increased airtime is crucial. It provides the necessary time to fully execute the rotation and land with both feet on the board. Once you’ve mastered the trick with support, performing it standing still becomes a matter of perseverance.
Final Thoughts on Kickflips and Heelflips
Whether you take hours, days, months, or years to land your first flip tricks, consistent practice will ultimately lead to success. Avoid comparing your progress to others, and remember that skateboarding is about more than just flip tricks. There are countless tricks you can explore that might come more naturally to you. Embrace the learning journey, and as Rodney Mullen wisely advised, “Go out there and create.”
Ruben vee
This article was brought to you by Ruben Vee, a seasoned skateboarder with over 25 years of experience. His passion for skateboarding gear and testing shines through in his helpful advice.
