Chris Daniels

May 28, 2022

How to Kickflip on a Fingerboard

I see you're lookin' to learn how to kickflip on a fingerboard.

Luckily for you, you've come to the right place! 😉

The kickflip is a gatekeeper trick that will most likely provide the first real challenge. Now, that's not to take anything away from learning the ollie. It's just that the kickflip has an additional layer to it that requires extra attention - timing.

Beginners

Finger positioning

Place your middle finger on the tip of the tail and your index finger just behind the front bolts.

Pop

Pop the tail of the board with your backfinger. This will cause the board to lift up. Be sure to pop the tail straight down as this prevents any shuvit rotation from occuring.

Flick

After you pop, rotate your wrist and lift your hand. Immediately flick your finger in a down and out motion. This will cause the rotation of the kickflip.

Catch

As the board finishes the kickflip rotation, catch the board with your back finger. This is all about timing, and the only way to get the timing down is repetition! Ideally, you will land with your fingers over "bolts" or on top of where the truck screws are.

Land

Bring down the board in a smooth, controlled fashion.

Intermediate

Once you are able to land kickflips consistently, it's time to learn more control. Focus on flicking your wrist a little harder, which will cause a faster rotation. This will allow you to catch the board earlier / higher in the air.

One trick timing the catch is to think "Pop" then a split second later "Catch" in your head as you perform the trick.

Advanced

Okay, this is what separates the Pros from the Ams! Practice on separating the "Pop" from the "Flick". This hesitation will allow you get an even faster spin.

After you pop the trick like an ollie, forcefully rotate your wrist and extend out your index finger. You should instantly be in your catch position. The board should flip insanely quick, so it is essential that your fingers/hand is already in position to catch. Bring down the board smoothly and marvel at that insane kickflip you pulled off.