What this trick is
Tailslide is sliding on the tail of your board on a ledge or rail.
Before you try it
Find an unwaxed ledge to practice getting into tailslide position without risk of slipping out.
Practice ollies into a 5-0 stall and then turning into a tail stall until eventually you feel confident to land to tail.
On a waxed ledge, do some drills with your foot and the tail already in the slide position and your front foot on the ground. Push off and return your front foot to the board and practice sliding.
How to do it
- Set your feel like you would for a front 180.
- Approach either parallel or at a slight angle to the ledge.
- Pop as if doing a front 180 and turn 90 degrees to get the tail onto the ledge.
- Lock your back wheels and base plate into the ledge and keep your weight over the tail as it slides.
- Turn your shoulders to exit the slide, land back on the ground and roll out.
Common mistakes
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Hitting the side of the ledge instead of locking in. You pop and turn, but the tail bangs into the edge or the board bounces away. You might be too close to the ledge, popping too late, or not getting enough height to clear the edge. Give yourself enough room to pop up and turn onto the ledge.
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The board stops immediately and doesnt slide. The tail sticks and you stall instead of sliding. You could be pressing too hard down through your back foot, or the ledge may be too rough or insufficiently prepared.
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You slip out as soon as you lock in. The board slides away from you, or you fall backwards or sideways as soon as the tail touches down. Stay low, keep your hips over your tail and back truck and look along the ledge.
Learn more
Source: Spencer Nuzzi · How To Tailslide (Skateboarding Trick Tip)