Above: Dan at Ragged Mountain
The next step after learning to stick the 50/50 like a pro is to move onto the backside boardslide. This involves sliding perpendicular to the rail or box facing downhill. While most amateur boarders are intimidated by the looks of this trick, it’s really quite easy once you nail it.
I recommend practicing on a nice jib box that is at least 12 inches wide. The wide surface area allows for more error in the placement of your board without slipping off the edge. Begin by dropping into the box as if you were going to hit it 50/50. At about the time the nose of your board reaches the box, pull your back leg around as if you were going to slow yourself down, but heres the key, do NOT lean back. Pulling off a successful front side requires you to lean forward slightly to avoid falling on your rear. As with any trick you really have to commit to it if you want to stick it like a pro, so spin that board 90 degrees and make sure to look forward, not down!
This may seem awkward at first but as always, practice makes perfect. To understand how much you have to lean forward try practicing on flat ground with your board strapped on. Your not going to be standing up straight when you hit the box, so give those knees some flex and see how much balance you need to stand like that. If you were actually moving you are going to want to balance just a hair more on your toes because many factor such as wind, momentum, or a slight incline will require it.
Once your on the box it’s time to prepare for that landing. You have two options, pull your board back to land the way you entered or continue your spin and land fakie. First timers will find it more comfortable to land regular. If you find that your body naturally wants to spin and land fakie than go for it, just make sure you can ride out of that landing.
Remember to keep those knees bent and relax a little, you will find it really isn’t hard at all. Perfecting this trick is the first step to some serious jibbing.
One Response to “Backside Boardslide”
July 7th, 2008 at 8:45 pm
i posted that other video for ya