Learn How to Hardflip Like a Pro in 5 Minutes
In this video and article, you'll learn the step-by-step instructions from Dominick Walker to dial in your Hardflip, whether it's your first time or if you're looking to improve your skills.
The Hardflip is one of the most popular flip tricks in skateboarding. Pro skater Dominick Walker teaches you the step by step instructions, making this trick easier to learn than you might think. After watching the video, reading the article and checking out the photos for each step, you'll be landing the Hardflip in your next session.
The Perfect Hardflip in 4 Steps
- Foot Positioning
- Pop and Flick
- Catch
- Land
Step 1: Foot Positioning
To execute the hardflip, initially have your feet just over the bolts to get a good stance and stability as you go into the trick. Then, as you approach the trick, slide your feet into position - your front foot, just below the bolts, on the frontside of the board's concave and your back foot on the tail, scooting into the corner. Your feet should be angled slightly towards the board's heelside.
Step 2: Pop and Flick
Pop the tail of the board with your back foot while sliding your front foot diagonally towards the board's heelside and your back foot pushes forward. This motion will cause the board to spin and flip simultaneously. It is crucial to flick your front foot with enough force to flip the board entirely. Important tip from Dominick - "it's very important that you hug this side [heelside] of your board, it makes your board flip better." The simultaneous motion of your pop and flick, is a sideways down motion.
Step 3: Catch
As the board rotates, it is crucial to keep your eyes on it and prepare to catch it with your front foot. Once caught, use your back foot to level out the board and land. Dominick breaks down the two styles to catch the Hardflip, depending on how you flick it. Like Bryan Herman, flicking to the side, making it easy to catch. Or, like Chad Muska, flicking it off the top, making the board flip more up and down, kicking his feet out to catch.
Step 4: Landing
Depending on the way you flick, to the side or off the top, you will adjust differently for the catch, and landing. One way, you adjust more to the back and the other more to the front. You'll find the best way for you. Either way, as you catch the board, keep your front and back foot over the bolts. This will position you to land centered on your board, so you can roll away clean. Remember to have your legs and knees bent to absorb the impact.
Practice, practice, practice
Like any other skateboard trick, mastering the hardflip requires consistent practice and persistence. Start by attempting the trick on a flat surface before moving on to a ramp or stairs. Remember to practice the foundation tricks - Ollie, pop shove-it and kickflip, these skills will help you learn the Hardflip easier.