Skateboarding Made Simple · Chapter 11 of 18
A backside 180 is an ollie where you turn halfway around with your back to the direction you were going. It feels blind at first, which is why it is often harder than the frontside version.
In This Chapter
- What backside means
- The wind up
- Landing it
Gear Check
Board, flat shoes, a solid ollie.
Step by Step
- Set up like an ollie, back foot slightly toward the toe edge of the tail.
- Wind your shoulders forward a little before popping.
- Pop, slide and turn your shoulders backside (your back faces forward).
- Keep your eyes on the board as it rotates.
- Land fakie with knees bent.
Tip
Turn your head and look over your back shoulder as you spin. Your body follows your head.
Remember
Backside for regular riders means turning clockwise.
Warning
Losing sight of the landing is normal. Commit to the full turn instead of stopping halfway.
Common Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)
- Stopping at 90. Commit and finish the rotation.
- Feet too far back. Keep your front foot near the front bolts.
- Not looking. Look over your shoulder at your landing.
Skate Nerd Stuff
Backside 180s are the base for half cabs and fakie tricks later.
Your Practice Plan
- Practice backside kick turns.
- Try backside 90s, then 180s standing still.
- Do them rolling.
Chapter 12: How to Pop Shove-It →
Need gear or a hand dialing it in? Stop by the shop inside the Carson City Mall or shop completes online.