How to Perfect Your Ollie Understanding the Key Movements
Skateboarding is an exhilarating sport that not only offers thrill but also a sense of achievement as one masters new tricks. Among the foundational tricks is the ollie, a manoeuvre that, once perfected, opens up a myriad of possibilities on the skateboard. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the key movements essential to perfecting your ollie, ensuring you get it right every time.
Understanding the Ollie
The ollie is a jump performed with a skateboard, where the skater uses a blend of movements to lift both the board and themselves into the air without using their hands. It’s the bedrock of skateboarding tricks and mastering it will form the basis for more complex techniques.
Key Movements
- Foot Positioning: Start by placing your back foot firmly on the tail of the skateboard. Your front foot should be positioned slightly below the front bolts. The correct positioning of your front foot is crucial as it controls the drag and levelling of the board in mid-air.
- The Pop: The trick initiates with a sharp, snapping motion of your back foot, often referred to as 'popping' the tail. This quick and forceful downward motion is what propels the skateboard off the ground. It's crucial to exert the right amount of force to achieve an optimal elevation.
- Scooping or Dragging: As the tail hits the ground, your front foot needs to slide up the board towards the nose. This scooping or dragging action helps level the board mid-air and aligns it parallel to the ground.
- Levelling Out: The drag brings your board to a horizontal position at the peak of the jump. Use your knees to control the descent, absorbing the impact as you prepare to land.
- Landing: Your goal is to land as softly and evenly as possible, with both feet over the bolts. Proper landing not only ensures stability but also reduces the risk of damaging your board or sustaining injuries.
Equip Yourself Right
Mastering the ollie also depends significantly on the gear you use. Here are some products from Kingpin Skate Supply that can help elevate your skateboarding experience:
- Spitfire Wheels Formula Four Radial 54mm 99d F4: These wheels offer excellent grip and speed, perfect for practising ollies on various surfaces.
- Nike SB Shoes Dunk Low Pro ISO Deep Fire Black Sail US SIZE Skate Sneakers: The right shoes provide the grip and support needed for flicking your board and maintaining balance.
- Cons Shoes One Star Pro Low Black White White Suede Converse Skateboard Sneakers: Another excellent footwear choice to ensure maximum board feel and comfort during long skate sessions.
Conclusion
With dedication and the right approach, perfecting your ollie is within reach. By focusing on these key movements and equipping yourself with the appropriate skate gear, you'll find yourself confidently nailing this essential trick. For more skateboarding essentials, visit Kingpin Skate Supply and elevate your skateboarding journey. Happy skating!