Skateboarding is a realm of constant innovation and breathtaking maneuvers, and the 360 Flip stands proudly as one of its most mesmerizing feats.
This versatile trick blends the elegance of a 360-degree spin with the technical prowess of a kickflip, captivating both skateboarders and spectators alike.
In this blog post, we unravel the intricacies of the 360 Flip, addressing key questions that often arise when delving into the world of skateboarding’s iconic maneuvers. So, stay focused.
What Is a Big Flip in Skateboarding?
A Big Flip is a technical skateboarding trick that involves a combination of board flipping and body movements. It is typically performed on a skateboard with a regular stance.
In a Big Flip, the skateboarder uses their front foot to flip the board while simultaneously performing a 360-degree shuvit with their back foot. This results in the board executing a full rotation along its vertical axis while also flipping horizontally.
The skater’s front foot guides the flip, while the back foot’s scoop and spin dictate the board’s rotation. The trick requires precise timing, coordination, and control to execute both the flip and the spin simultaneously.
Successful execution of a Big Flip showcases a skater’s advanced skills and mastery of complex board manipulation techniques.
What Is A 360 Flip In Skateboarding
A 360 Flip, also known as a “Tre Flip” or “3 Flip,” is a dynamic and stylish skateboarding trick that exemplifies a fusion of board flipping and body rotation. This technical maneuver is performed while riding a skateboard, and it is often considered a hallmark of a skilled and creative skateboarder.
To execute a 360 Flip, the skateboarder stands in their regular or goofy stance (depending on their preferred foot placement) and starts by initiating a kickflip motion.
With the front foot, they flick the skateboard’s nose downward and diagonally, causing the board to flip beneath them. Simultaneously, the skateboarder uses their back foot to provide a slight kick and guide the flip.
The distinct aspect of a 360 Flip is the addition of a 360-degree body rotation while the board is flipping beneath the skater. As the board rotates along its horizontal axis, the skateboarder’s body also spins in a full circle, allowing them to catch the board with their leading hand while it completes its flip.
History of the 360 Flip
The history of the 360 Flip, also known as the “Tre Flip” or “3 Flip,” traces back to the evolution of skateboarding’s technical tricks and the innovative spirit of skateboarders.
This iconic trick, characterized by its combination of a kickflip and a 360-degree body rotation, has become a cornerstone of modern street skateboarding. Here is an elaborate overview of the history of the 360 Flip:
Evolution of Skateboarding Tricks
Skateboarding has always been about pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on a skateboard. The development of flip tricks, which involve manipulating the skateboard to flip in mid-air, gained momentum in the 1980s.
Tricks like the kickflip and heelflip showcased the potential for creative board manipulation.
Inception and Experimentation
While the exact origins of the 360 Flip are a bit ambiguous, it is believed to have emerged during the late 1980s and early 1990s as skateboarders began experimenting with combining flips and spins.
Skaters were pushing the envelope of technical innovation, striving to meld various tricks into seamless sequences.
Early Influencers
Skaters like Rodney Mullen, a legendary innovator in the world of skateboarding, played a pivotal role in pushing the boundaries of trick creation.
Mullen’s contributions to flip tricks and flat-ground skating greatly influenced the evolution of the 360 Flip. His inventive spirit laid the foundation for the complex maneuvers that followed.
Mainstream Recognition
The 360 Flip gained broader recognition and popularity in the early 1990s as street skateboarding gained prominence. As videos and magazines showcased these new tricks, a new generation of skateboarders was inspired to perfect and innovate upon them.
Technical Mastery
Perfecting the 360 Flip required an intricate understanding of flip physics, body positioning, and timing. Skaters needed to refine their kickflip technique while simultaneously adding a 360-degree spin to their body movements. This demanded immense practice and dedication.
Rise of the Tre Flip
As street skateboarding culture flourished in the 1990s, the 360 Flip solidified its place as one of the most coveted and respected tricks. The term “Tre Flip” gained traction as a shorthand for the trick, a nickname that underscored its technical complexity.
Who Invented the 360 Flip?
The invention of the 360 Flip is often attributed to skateboarder Rodney Mullen. Mullen’s innovative contributions to skateboarding are well-documented, and his experimentation with flip and spin combinations likely played a pivotal role in the creation of the 360 Flip.
While Mullen’s influence is clear, skateboarding’s collaborative nature means that tricks often develop organically within the community, influenced by various skaters’ contributions.
Cultural Impact
The 360 Flip’s adoption by skateboarding’s elite showcased the sport’s ongoing evolution and the incredible skill of its participants. The trick’s inclusion in video parts and competitions further elevated its prominence, inspiring generations of skateboarders to attempt and innovate upon it.
The history of the 360 Flip encapsulates the essence of skateboarding’s innovative spirit. Emerging from the fusion of flip tricks and body rotations, the 360 Flip represents a turning point in the technical progression of skateboarding.
What Is Backside 360 Flip?
A Backside 360 Flip, often referred to as a “Back 3 Flip” or “Backside Tre Flip,” is a skateboarding trick that combines a backside 360-degree body rotation with a kickflip.
This maneuver involves the skateboarder executing a 360-degree spin while simultaneously flipping the skateboard underneath them using their front foot. The trick is performed in the air, and successfully landing it requires precise timing, coordination, and control.
Here’s how a Backside 360 Flip is typically executed:
Foot Placement
The skateboarder sets up their feet in a regular or goofy stance, depending on their preference. The front foot’s positioning is similar to that of a kickflip, with the toes angled diagonally across the skateboard’s nose.
The back foot’s placement is similar to that of a backside 360-degree spin, across the tail of the board.
Pop and Spin Initiation
To initiate the trick, the skateboarder pops the tail of the skateboard using their back foot. Simultaneously, they begin to rotate their shoulders and hips in the direction of the backside 360-degree spin.
Kickflip Motion
As the skateboard starts to lift off the ground, the skateboarder uses their front foot to flick the edge of the nose downward and diagonally, initiating a kickflip. This flipping motion, combined with the spinning motion of the body, causes the skateboard to flip underneath the skater.
Rotation and Catch
While the board is flipping and spinning beneath them, the skateboarder completes the 360-degree backside rotation. Timing is crucial here, as the skater needs to catch the board with their leading hand to stabilize it and control the landing.
Landing
With the board now fully rotated and flipped, the skateboarder repositions their body to align with the board and prepares to land smoothly on the skateboard’s bolts.
The Backside 360 Flip is a complex and visually captivating trick that showcases a skater’s ability to combine both rotational and flipping elements in a single maneuver. It requires a strong foundation in kickflips, backside spins, and body control.
How to Practice 360 Flip in Skateboard?
Practicing the 360 Flip in skateboarding requires a systematic approach, dedication, and patience.
This complex trick involves a combination of kickflip and 360-degree body rotation, so it’s essential to break down the learning process into manageable steps. Here’s a guide to help you practice and improve your Backside 360 Flip:
Master the Basics
Before attempting the 360 Flip, make sure you have a solid foundation in kickflips, backside 180s, and pop shuvits. These fundamental tricks provide the building blocks for the 360 Flip.
Foot Placement
Position your front foot diagonally across the skateboard’s nose, similar to a kickflip stance. Your back foot should be placed across the tail as you would for a backside 180.
Practice Kickflips and 360 Spins Separately
Break down the trick into its components. Practice kickflips and backside 360 spins separately to refine each motion before combining them.
Combine the Motions Slowly
Start by attempting the trick at a slow speed. Focus on initiating the backside 360 spin while also flicking the front foot to start the kickflip motion. Don’t worry about catching the board at this stage; the goal is to understand the timing and coordination.
Work on Timing
Timing is crucial for the 360 Flip. Focus on getting the rotation and kickflip motion to synchronize. Experiment with different amounts of flick and spin until you find the right balance.
Catch the Board
As you become comfortable with the combined motion, start practicing catching the board. Try to catch it with your leading hand while keeping your eyes on the grip tape to guide your hand’s placement.
Increase Speed Gradually
As you gain confidence, increase your speed gradually. Performing the trick at higher speeds might change the dynamics, so be prepared for adjustments in timing and body movement.
Film Yourself
Record your attempts on video. Reviewing the footage can help you identify areas that need improvement, such as the flip’s height, body rotation, or catch.
Stay Persistent
Learning the 360 Flip takes time and perseverance. Expect to fall and fail, but use each attempt as a learning opportunity. The more you practice, the better your muscle memory will become.
Practice Regularly
Consistency is key. Set aside dedicated practice sessions for the 360 Flip. Regular practice will help you gradually improve your technique and build confidence.
Seek Guidance
If possible, skate with more experienced skateboarders who can offer tips and advice. Their insights can be invaluable in refining your technique.
Stay Positive and Patient
Skateboarding tricks require time to master. Celebrate small successes, and don’t get discouraged by setbacks. A positive attitude and determination will go a long way in your learning journey.
Remember that skateboarding is about progress, not perfection. The journey of learning the 360 Flip is as rewarding as landing the trick itself.
Challenges in Doing 360 Flip While Skateboarding
Mastering the 360 Flip in skateboarding can be quite challenging due to the complexity of the trick and the combination of various movements. Here are some of the challenges you might encounter when trying to do a 360 Flip:
Timing and Coordination
The 360 Flip requires precise timing and coordination between the kickflip motion and the 360-degree body rotation. Getting these two elements to synchronize seamlessly can be difficult and often takes a lot of practice.
Consistency
Achieving consistency with the 360 Flip can be tough. Even experienced skateboarders might land the trick perfectly one time and struggle with it the next. Developing muscle memory and refining your technique is essential to achieving consistent results.
Spin Speed and Flip Height
Balancing the speed of the 360-degree spin and the height of the flip can be challenging. If the board flips too slowly or too high, it might not complete the rotation in time for you to catch it. Finding the right balance is crucial.
Body Positioning
Proper body positioning is crucial for executing the trick correctly. If your shoulders, hips, or feet are misaligned, it can affect the rotation and flip of the board. Achieving the right body position while performing the trick in mid-air takes practice.
Catching the Board
Timing your hand to catch the board mid-air is another challenge. Catching the board too early or too late can result in a failed landing or an unstable board. Developing the spatial awareness to catch the board consistently takes time.
Commitment
Committing to the full rotation and flip while in the air can be intimidating, especially if you’re still learning the trick. The fear of falling or getting injured can hinder your progress. Overcoming this mental barrier is crucial for success.
Speed and Momentum
Performing a 360 Flip at different speeds can alter the dynamics of the trick. Adjusting to the changes in speed while maintaining control and stability can be demanding.
Surface and Terrain
The surface you’re skating on and the terrain can affect your ability to perform the 360 Flip. Rough or uneven surfaces might throw off your balance, and adapting to different terrains requires extra skill and adjustment.
Fatigue and Endurance
Trying the 360 Flip repeatedly can be physically exhausting. As fatigue sets in, maintaining the required level of control, balance, and technique becomes even more challenging.
External Factors
External factors such as wind, distractions, and pressure from being watched can influence your performance. Staying focused and maintaining your concentration in less-than-ideal conditions is an added challenge.
Learning Curve
The 360 Flip is an advanced trick, and progressing through the learning curve might take longer compared to simpler tricks. Staying patient and motivated during the learning process is essential.
Despite these challenges, remember that every skateboarder faces difficulties when learning new tricks. Each attempt, whether successful or not, brings you closer to mastering the 360 Flip.
FAQs
Who Invented the 360 Flip?
The 360 Flip, also known as the “Tre Flip” or “3 Flip,” is often credited to the legendary skateboarder Rodney Mullen. Mullen, a pioneer in modern street skateboarding, played a significant role in shaping the trick’s evolution through his innovative spirit and experimentation.
While the exact inception remains open to interpretation due to skateboarding’s collaborative nature, Mullen’s influence in shaping the foundations of the 360 Flip is undeniable.
What Is a Skateboard 720 Flip?
The Skateboard 720 Flip is a trick that takes the 360 Flip’s complexity to the next level. It involves executing a double kickflip while simultaneously spinning the skateboard 720 degrees (two full rotations) in mid-air.
This jaw-dropping maneuver is a display of extraordinary skill and control, as it requires impeccable timing, body coordination, and an in-depth understanding of flip physics.
Who Invented the Laser Flip?
The Laser Flip, a variation of the 360 Flip, was popularized by professional skateboarder Rodney Mullen as well. This unique trick involves a heelflip combined with a 360-degree body rotation, resulting in a visually captivating flip and spin hybrid.
Mullen’s innovative approach to skateboard tricks introduced the world to the Laser Flip and showcased his groundbreaking creativity.
How Do You Execute a Flawless 360 Flip?
Mastering the 360 Flip demands dedication and practice. Start by honing your kickflip technique and getting comfortable with backside 360 spins. Combine these motions slowly, focusing on synchronization and timing.
Practice catching the board mid-air while ensuring your body aligns with it for a smooth landing. Consistency comes with persistent effort, so be patient and stay committed to perfecting each element of the trick.
What Makes the 360 Flip a Signature Trick?
The 360 Flip stands out as a signature trick due to its seamless blend of rotation and flip. It represents a pinnacle of technical innovation within skateboarding, requiring mastery of multiple elements simultaneously.
Its captivating visual appeal, combined with the athleticism and creativity needed to execute it, makes the 360 Flip a defining move in a skateboarder’s repertoire.
Wrapping Up
The 360 Flip, a harmonious marriage of spin and flip, encapsulates the essence of skateboarding’s constant evolution.
From its roots in Rodney Mullen’s ingenuity to its various iterations like the Skateboard 720 Flip and the Laser Flip, this trick symbolizes the spirit of innovation and dedication that defines the skateboarding community.
By exploring its origins and mechanics, we gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry and athleticism that define this remarkable maneuver. Thank you for your support.
