Mastering the 360 flip, often called a "tre flip," is a hallmark trick in skateboarding that combines the board's 360-degree horizontal rotation with a simultaneous kickflip, resulting in an impressive aerial maneuver.
Understanding the 360 Flip (Tre Flip)
The 360 flip is a hybrid trick that merges two fundamental skateboarding movements: a pop shuvit (where the board spins 360 degrees horizontally under your feet) and a kickflip (where the board rotates vertically along its longitudinal axis). The challenge lies in executing both rotations simultaneously and catching the board cleanly before landing.
Essential Pre-Requisites
Before attempting a 360 flip, it's highly recommended to have a solid grasp of the following fundamental tricks:
- Ollie: The basic jump, crucial for getting off the ground.
- Kickflip: Essential for understanding the front foot's flicking motion to initiate board rotation.
- Pop Shuvit / Frontside Pop Shuvit: Helps develop the back foot's scooping motion for horizontal board rotation.
- Frontside 180: Good for understanding body and shoulder rotation.
Step-by-Step Guide to Landing a 360 Flip
Executing a 360 flip requires precision, timing, and commitment. Here’s a breakdown of the process:
1. Foot Placement is Key
Your stance sets the foundation for the entire trick.
- Front Foot: Position your front foot slightly behind the front bolts, angled at about a 45-degree angle, similar to your kickflip stance. Its primary role is to flick the board for the kickflip rotation.
- Back Foot: This is where the magic for the 360 spin happens. Position your back foot more in the "pocket" of your tail. This means your toes should be close to the edge of the tail, positioned towards the heel side, ready to scoop. This deep pocket placement allows for maximum leverage during the scoop.
2. The Pop and Scoop
This is the most critical phase, where you initiate both rotations.
- With your back foot, pop your tail down firmly against the ground.
- Immediately after the pop, use your toes to flick and scoop towards your heel side. This powerful, sweeping motion is what drives the board to rotate 360 degrees horizontally in a backside direction. It requires enough force and precision to achieve the full rotation.
3. The Front Foot Flick
As your back foot scoops, your front foot simultaneously initiates the kickflip.
- Once the board begins to rise and spin from the pop and scoop, slide your front foot upwards and off the nose, kicking out with your heel slightly. This action causes the board to perform its vertical kickflip rotation. The timing here is crucial – you want the kickflip to happen as the board is already beginning its horizontal spin.
4. Commitment and Catch
Staying over the board and committing to the landing is vital.
- As the board completes its 360-degree horizontal spin and the kickflip rotation, spot the grip tape.
- Bring your feet directly over the bolts and prepare to catch the board in the air. Aim to land with your feet over the truck bolts for maximum stability.
5. Landing and Rolling Away
- Once your feet connect with the board, bend your knees deeply to absorb the impact. This helps maintain balance and prevents injury.
- Roll away smoothly, adjusting your balance as needed. Congratulations, you've landed a 360 flip!
Common 360 Flip Mistakes and Solutions
Even experienced skaters face challenges with the 360 flip. Here’s a table of common problems and how to address them:
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Board doesn't rotate 360° | Focus on a harder, more direct scoop with the back foot into the "pocket" of your tail. Ensure your back foot is flicking towards your heel side with sufficient power. |
| Board only does a kickflip | Your back foot likely isn't scooping enough. Ensure your back foot is deep in the tail's pocket and actively driving the board horizontally. |
| Board goes too far in front or behind | Keep your shoulders aligned directly over the board throughout the entire trick. Avoid leaning too far back or forward, which can throw the board off its trajectory. |
| Not landing on the board | This is often a commitment issue. Practice jumping straight up and down, keeping your body centered over the board. Visualize landing the trick before you try it. |
| Board does a hospital flip (wrong vertical rotation) | Ensure your front foot is flicking off the nose properly for a kickflip, not under or around it. The front foot's flick should be clean and upward, not causing an unwanted "scoop" motion that results in a horizontal axis flip. |
Tips for Success
- Practice Fundamentals: Ensure your kickflips and pop shuvits are solid before dedicating time to the 360 flip.
- Warm-Up: Always stretch and get comfortable on your board before attempting difficult tricks.
- Commitment: The 360 flip requires a full commitment. Hesitation often leads to bailing or an incomplete rotation.
- Film Yourself: Watching yourself skate can provide invaluable insight into your technique, helping you identify what's working and what's not.
- Consistency: This trick takes time and repetition. Don't get discouraged by falls; every attempt is a step closer to landing it.
Further Learning Resources
For visual demonstrations and additional tips, check out these reputable skateboarding trick tutorial channels:
- Braille Skateboarding - How To Tre Flip
- The Berrics - How To Tre Flip with PJ Ladd
- Ride Channel - How To Tre Flip with Daewon Song
Mastering the 360 flip is a significant milestone in skateboarding that showcases advanced board control and coordination. With patience, practice, and the right technique, you'll be landing this iconic trick in no time.
