A 360 flip, often called a "tre flip," is a cornerstone of advanced skateboarding, combining a 360-degree shuvit with a kickflip in one fluid motion. Mastering this trick requires coordination, timing, and consistent practice.
Understanding the 360 Flip
The 360 flip is one of the most stylish and impressive flip tricks. It involves the board rotating a full 360 degrees horizontally (like a 360 shuvit) while simultaneously flipping along its longitudinal axis (like a kickflip). The key is to blend these two movements seamlessly.
Step-by-Step Guide to Landing a 360 Flip
Here's how to break down this iconic trick:
1. Foot Placement is Crucial
Proper foot placement sets the foundation for a successful 360 flip.
- Front Foot: Position your front foot similar to a standard kickflip, typically just behind the front bolts, angled slightly. Its role is to initiate the kickflip rotation.
- Back Foot: This is where the magic for the 360-degree rotation begins. Place your back foot more in the pocket of your tail. This position allows for maximum leverage and the powerful scooping motion needed for the shuvit. Ensure your toes are positioned to effectively "flick" or scoop the tail.
2. The Pop and Flick
This is the most dynamic part of the trick, requiring precise timing and coordinated movements from both feet.
- Pop the Tail: With your back foot, pop your tail down firmly. This initiates the vertical lift of the board.
- Scoop for 360 Rotation: Immediately after popping, use your toes to flick towards your heel side with enough force so it rotates 360 degrees in a backside direction. This powerful, outward scooping motion of your back foot is what drives the full 360-degree horizontal rotation of the board. Think of it like a hard, controlled shovel motion.
- Flick for Kickflip: Simultaneously, as your back foot scoops, your front foot should slide up the board's concave and flick off the nose pocket. This action will cause the board to rotate along its length, creating the kickflip component.
- Synchronized Motion: The key is to execute the back foot's scoop and the front foot's flick at almost the exact same moment. The board needs to get enough height to complete both rotations before you land.
3. Commitment and Catching
Once the board is rotating, your body needs to stay centered and ready to catch.
- Eyes on the Board: Keep your eyes fixed on the board throughout its rotation.
- Bring Knees Up: As the board lifts and spins, bring your knees up towards your chest. This gives the board space to complete its rotations underneath you.
- Catch the Board: Aim to catch the board with both feet over the bolts. The ideal moment is when the board has completed its 360-degree shuvit and is halfway through its kickflip rotation, or just as it finishes the kickflip.
4. The Landing
A solid landing secures the trick and prepares you for the next push.
- Land Softly: Absorb the impact by bending your knees as your feet make contact with the board and the ground.
- Stay Balanced: Keep your weight centered and your shoulders aligned with the board.
- Roll Away: Ride away smoothly, looking ahead.
Tips for Success
- Master the Fundamentals: Ensure you have solid kickflips and pop shuvits before attempting a 360 flip. A backside 360 shuvit is especially helpful for understanding the back foot scoop.
- Practice the Scoop: On the ground, without popping high, practice the back foot scoop motion to get a feel for the 360-degree rotation.
- Commitment: This trick requires full commitment. Hesitation often leads to bailing.
- Patience: The 360 flip is a challenging trick. Don't get discouraged if it takes time.
Common Issues and Solutions
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Board doesn't fully rotate 360 | Insufficient back foot scoop. | Focus on a deeper, more powerful scoop with your back foot, really pushing through the tail pocket towards your heel side. |
| Board only does a shuvit, no flip | Front foot not flicking properly or early. | Ensure your front foot slides up the board and flicks off the nose at the right angle and timing, independent of the back foot's scoop. |
| Board only does a kickflip, no shuvit | Back foot not scooping enough or front foot flicking too straight. | Emphasize the strong, outward scoop of your back foot. Ensure your front foot flick is more angled off the nose to allow the shuvit rotation. |
| Board flies away behind you | Leaning too far forward or not keeping shoulders aligned. | Stay centered over the board. Keep your shoulders directly above your feet throughout the pop and flick. |
| Board doesn't get enough height | Weak pop or not bringing knees up. | Practice popping harder. Consciously pull your knees up high to give the board maximum airtime to rotate. |
| Landing with one foot | Catching too early/late or unbalanced landing. | Work on catching with both feet simultaneously. Focus on keeping your weight centered and your eyes on the bolts as you land. |
For visual guidance and detailed breakdowns, check out resources from experienced skaters:
Mastering the 360 flip is a rewarding journey that significantly expands your trick vocabulary and control over the board. Keep practicing, and you'll land it!
