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Skateboarding has evolved tremendously since its inception in the 1950s. Over the decades, certain tricks have captured the imagination of skaters and fans alike, becoming symbols of innovation and style. Here are the top 10 most iconic skateboard tricks of all time that have shaped the sport’s history.
1. Kickflip
The kickflip is one of the most recognizable tricks in skateboarding. It involves flipping the skateboard 360 degrees along the axis that extends from the nose to the tail while the rider jumps into the air. This trick was popularized in the 1980s and remains a staple for advanced skaters.
2. McTwist
The McTwist is a mid-air spin combined with a flip, usually performed on a vert ramp or a transition. It was pioneered by skaters like Mike McGill and Tony Hawk, pushing the boundaries of aerial tricks in vert skating.
3. Ollie
The Ollie is considered the foundation of modern street skateboarding. Invented by Alan “Ollie” Gelfand in the late 1970s, it allows skaters to jump over obstacles without grabbing the board, opening the door to countless trick combinations.
4. 360 Flip (Tre Flip)
The 360 Flip, or Tre Flip, combines a kickflip with a 360-degree spin of the skateboard. This complex trick requires precise timing and has become a symbol of technical skill among street skaters.
5. Heelflip
The Heelflip is similar to the kickflip but uses the heel to flip the board instead of the toes. It adds style and flair to a skater’s repertoire, often performed in street and park settings.
6. Boardslide
The Boardslide is a popular grind trick where the skateboard slides along a rail or ledge with the deck perpendicular to the obstacle. It’s a fundamental trick in street skating and has many variations.
7. Nollie
The Nollie is a variation of the Ollie performed with the front foot instead of the back foot. It allows for quick, stylish tricks and is often used to initiate flip tricks or grinds.
8. Hardflip
The Hardflip combines a frontside flip with a kickflip, resulting in a tricky, fast-spinning flip trick. It’s a favorite among skaters looking to showcase technical prowess.
9. Laser Flip
The Laser Flip is a complex trick that merges a heelflip with a 360-degree shove-it. It’s considered one of the most difficult flip tricks and a hallmark of expert street skaters.
10. Varial Kickflip
The Varial Kickflip combines a kickflip with a shuv-it, spinning the board 180 degrees while flipping. It’s a stylish trick that demonstrates control and technical skill.
These tricks have defined skateboarding’s evolution and continue to inspire new generations of skaters. Mastery of these iconic moves opens the door to endless creative possibilities on the board.