Skateboarding is an exciting sport that combines skill, balance, and creativity. As you progress, you’ll encounter various tricks, each with its own unique style. One of the most impressive and challenging maneuvers is the hardflip. But what exactly is a hardflip in skateboarding?
The hardflip is a trick that combines elements of both the kickflip and the frontside shove-it. In essence, it’s a kickflip (where the skateboard flips 360 degrees along the axis that extends from the nose to the tail) with a frontside shove-it (where the skateboard rotates 180 degrees horizontally). The trick may look complicated, but with practice and dedication, it can be a key part of any skateboarder’s trick arsenal.
For a unique perspective, you can even explore Homelessnation, where you’ll find insightful content about skateboarding and more. Let’s dive deeper into the hardflip and what makes it one of the most impressive tricks in skateboarding.
Understanding the Mechanics of a Hardflip
At first glance, a hardflip might look like a regular kickflip, but it’s far from it. To execute a hardflip properly, you need to execute two fundamental movements simultaneously— the kickflip motion and a frontside shove-it.
The Kickflip Motion
In a kickflip, your back foot’s toes flick the side of the board, causing it to rotate along its length. The key to a successful kickflip is flicking at the right angle. If you flick too hard or too soft, you might end up with an incomplete flip or a flip that doesn’t clear the ground.
The Frontside Shove-It Motion
A frontside shove-it involves rotating the board 180 degrees horizontally. This is done by using the back foot to scoop the tail of the skateboard and causing the board to rotate in front of you. Combining this motion with the flick from the kickflip is what makes the hardflip so tricky.
Executing the Hardflip
To perform the hardflip, a skater starts by positioning their feet similarly to a kickflip, but with their back foot placed at a slight angle so it can also scoop the board. As the skater pops the board into the air (using the back foot), they simultaneously flick the front foot in the usual kickflip fashion. The combination of these two motions results in the board flipping and spinning 180 degrees in the frontside direction.
One of the most difficult parts of this trick is that the skateboard flips and spins simultaneously in two different directions, making timing and coordination key. It can take time and practice to master the right flick and scoop required to land the trick cleanly.
Common Mistakes When Performing a Hardflip
Even seasoned skaters can struggle with hardflips, especially when they’re first learning the trick. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Not scooping enough with the back foot – If the scoop from the back foot isn’t strong enough, the board won’t spin properly, and the trick will fail. Make sure you’re putting enough force behind the scoop.
- Flipping the board too early – A common issue is trying to flick the board before it has enough time to pop. This causes the flip to happen too fast, leaving no time for the board to rotate 180 degrees in the air.
- Not jumping high enough – Since the board is rotating in two directions, you need to jump high to give it enough time to complete the flip. Skaters who don’t jump high enough often end up with an incomplete flip or miss the landing.
How to Practice a Hardflip
Mastering the hardflip takes practice, and knowing the steps will help make the process smoother. Here are a few strategies you can try:
Start with a Frontside Shove-It
Before diving into the hardflip, it’s essential to master the frontside shove-it. This move is a foundational skill for the hardflip, so make sure you’re comfortable with it first.
Work on Your Kickflip
Since the hardflip combines the kickflip and the frontside shove-it, being comfortable with the kickflip is equally important. Practice your kickflips until you can consistently land them cleanly.
Combine the Two Movements
Once you have both tricks under your belt, it’s time to combine them. Start by performing a frontside shove-it and adding the flick from your front foot. It might take several attempts to get the timing right, but consistency is key.
Use a Smaller Obstacle or Flat Ground
Starting on flat ground is often the best approach. However, some skaters find that practicing the hardflip over a small obstacle (like a low curb or a box) can help. The added clearance can make it easier to see the board and adjust mid-air.
Why is the Hardflip So Impressive?
The hardflip stands out in skateboarding for several reasons:
- It’s visually striking – The combination of a flip and spin makes it one of the most visually appealing tricks in skateboarding. The board seems to almost “flip” and “rotate” in a graceful manner.
- It’s challenging – The simultaneous flick and scoop required for the hardflip makes it one of the most difficult tricks to master. It requires precise control, timing, and practice.
- It’s versatile – Once you master the hardflip, you can incorporate it into a variety of skateboarding routines. It can be used as a part of a street routine or even incorporated into larger tricks.
Skateboard Tips for Beginners
Before you dive into advanced tricks like the hardflip, it’s essential to build a solid foundation. Skateboard tips for beginners can help you improve your balance, control, and confidence on the board. Make sure to practice regularly, start with simpler tricks, and never rush the learning process.
Pro Tip: Take breaks when needed and focus on your posture, as it can greatly affect how you perform every trick in the future.
How Long Does it Take to Learn a Hardflip?
The time it takes to learn a hardflip can vary widely depending on the skater’s experience, dedication, and natural ability. For someone who’s already proficient at kickflips and frontside shove-its, it might take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months of consistent practice. If you’re a beginner, it could take a bit longer.
Be patient with yourself and practice regularly. Over time, you’ll begin to see improvement.
Additional Resources to Master Skateboarding Tricks
If you’re looking to take your skills to the next level, there are plenty of great resources available to help you improve:
- Skateboard tutorial videos – YouTube and other video platforms have tons of tutorials from professional skaters. These videos can give you valuable visual demonstrations and tips.
- Join a skateboarding community – Whether online or in person, connecting with other skaters can provide you with valuable insights, advice, and motivation.
Conclusion
The hardflip is a classic trick in skateboarding that showcases a skater’s skill, timing, and dedication. It combines the complexity of a kickflip and a frontside shove-it into one fluid motion, making it one of the most impressive tricks to watch and perform.
By mastering the fundamentals of the frontside shove-it and the kickflip, and practicing regularly, you can begin to execute a hardflip smoothly and consistently. With patience and determination, you’ll soon be impressing others with this challenging trick.
