A side slide 180 combines the side slide with a full 180-degree rotation. Start in the side slide position, then continue the rotation to land riding the opposite direction (fakie or switchRiding with your non-dominant foot forward instead of your natural stance - the opposite of your normal riding position.). This is your first full surface rotation and the template for every surface spin that comes later.
The hardest part is the handle pass. As you come around, the handle has to move from your front hip, behind your back, to your new front hip. If it stays in one hand and you try to muscle it across the front, the line yanks you over. Low and tight behind the hip is the move.
Key tips
- Get comfortable holding the side slide before adding the 180
- Commit to the rotation. Hesitation causes falls
- Pass the handle behind your back as you complete the turn
- Land with your weight centered and knees bent
- Do the handle-pass motion a few times on the dock before you try it on the water
- Start on a slack-free straight. A tight line makes the rotation smoother