---
title: Foot braking
switch: true
image: foot-braking.mp4
image_source: https://youtu.be/zV0qe9mbTsM
image_credit: Sk8Daddies
image_credit_url: https://www.youtube.com/@sk8daddies
image_title: "How to Foot-Brake (Skateboarding for Adult Beginners)"
image_clip: https://youtu.be/zV0qe9mbTsM?0:32.3-0:35.42
prerequisite: pushing
authors:
- ManVsBoard
- renec112
updated: 2026-10-15
skill: slow or stop my board by dragging my back foot along the ground
tags: [fundamentals]
---

## What this trick is

Foot Braking is a way of stopping from a low speed or slowing down from high speed by dragging the sole of your shoe on the ground.

## Before you try it

You should be comfortable pushing and riding on your skateboard, and balancing just on your front foot with your pushing foot off to the side.

## How to do it

1. The setup - Usual riding position (front foot on or near bolts, back foot tail)
2. When rolling, lift your back foot off the board and apply light pressure to the ground with your sole flat. 
3. With most of your weight over your front foot and the board, keep dragging the sole of your shoe until you reach the desired speed or come to a stop.

Learn more here! 

https://youtu.be/zV0qe9mbTsM

*[Sk8Daddies](https://www.youtube.com/@sk8daddies) · [How to Foot-Brake (Skateboarding for Adult Beginners)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zV0qe9mbTsM)*

## Common mistakes

- Applying too much pressure when travelling at speed can cause you to stop too suddently or throw you off balance.

- Twisting ankle or knee - Keep your foot facing completely forwards to avoid injury

- Wearing incorrect footwear - Wear flat soled skate shoes rather than running shoes

## How to know you've got it

Easily and smoothly control speed by dragging sole of shoe on the ground.