Are you interested in learning how to skateboard uphill? Is it possible to skateboard uphill? All such questions are answered in this article, so keep reading.
Firstly, yes, you can ride a skateboard uphill if you know the right technique. It is possible to skateboard uphill in many ways, but not all of them will work for everyone. It’s important to find the most efficient way to ride a skateboard uphill depending on your experience, skateboarding style, and the hill you’re climbing.
This article will show you how to skateboard uphill in many different ways, including tips to accelerate the learning process. Consider, as well, that it takes time to learn to go uphill with a skateboard, but you can get used to it if you practice regularly and use the proper technique.
How To Skateboard Uphill
The first thing you need to do is decide what type of skateboard you will use. Skateboards are designed for different purposes, and some are better for skating uphill than others.
Consider shorter and wider deck boards for uphill skateboarding, as they are perfect for uphill. Also, make sure your front skateboard trucks are tightened enough since they determine your skateboard’s control and maneuverability. You can do this yourself using a skate tool.
Another thing to consider is the wheelbase. The wheelbase refers to the distance between the two trucks on the skateboard. Skaters with a longer wheelbase will be more stable and controlled when skating uphill, while those with a shorter wheelbase will find it tougher.
Finally, consider the wheel hardness. For uphill skateboarding, harder wheels will easily slip, so always choose softer wheels.
Furthermore, beginners are recommended to wear helmets and pads when skating uphill since the chances of falling are higher.
After choosing the right skateboard and putting on all the safety gear, it’s time to learn how to skateboard uphill. Here are some tips:
Pushing Uphill
This is the most common way to skateboard uphill. You’ll need to push off with your back foot while keeping your front foot on the deck. You’ll also need to lean slightly forward to maintain your balance.
Nevertheless, this is the most common way to go uphill and is also used by most beginners. Furthermore, on smaller hills, it can be fine, but on larger hills it is not recommended because it requires more stamina and strength.
This simple pushing method is the best choice if you are a beginner. Additionally, you do not need any previous skateboarding experience or practice if you already skate on flat surfaces.
Pumping Uphill
These are some of the most effective techniques used to go uphill on a skateboard. They require little effort, but they also cover a larger area than other methods like pushing. This is because it uses zigzag movements, which create more friction against the ground and make it easier to move forward.
The first step to performing this technique is positioning yourself on a skateboard with more weight on the front trucks. This assists you in rotating, keeping balance, and covering more uphill terrain.
In the beginning, this might be difficult because you may feel unstable on board. Try to balance on a skateboard yourself with your hands and use your feet to make small movements to make it easier. However, this technique will improve your board control and allow you to move faster uphill after enough practice.
Foot Switch While Pushing uphill
It’s nothing like a technique but shows you how to balance and move your board uphill if you’re having difficulty.
This method will work for you whether you’re a regular or goofy stance rider. All you have to do is when pushing uphill is when you feel the board beginning to slow and the board becoming harder to control, then you should switch your foot and keep going. This will help you to keep your balance and move the board faster uphill.
It is also important to note that before you attempt this on an uphill slope, you should first attempt it on a less steep slope or flat surface. Because if you cannot do it on a slope, then you probably can’t do it uphill.
Additional Tips For Beginners
It is common for beginners to make silly mistakes, making learning much more difficult. Therefore, here are some tips for avoiding common beginner’s mistakes:
Arm Motion Matters
In skateboarding uphill, your arms can be beneficial. Keeping them bent and close to your body will make it easier to maintain your balance. You can also use your arms to steer yourself in the right direction.
Lean Inwards
As you skateboard uphill, ensure you naturally lean forward. This will help you maintain your balance and make it easier to move forwards.
Use Safety Gears
It’s important to wear safety gear when skateboarding downhill, and the same holds true when skating uphill. As it gives the confidence to go uphill at higher speeds.
Take Breaks
Don’t be afraid to take a break whenever you get tired or slower as you skateboard uphill. Stop for a second and catch your breath then, you will be able to skate uphill more quickly.
Stay Focused
Whenever you skateboard uphill, remember to stay focused. Keep your eyes on the road in front of you, and don’t get distracted. This will help you go faster, stay safe, and avoid accidents.
FAQ’s
It is harder to control the board when skating uphill or downhill and requires more strength, stamina, and effort. However, if you have the proper techniques, you can do it easily.
If you have suitable skateboards, they can be great for hills since they can be easier to control and move faster than ordinary skateboards. For uphill riding, shorter, broader boards work well, but for downhill, longboards are best.
Yes, longboards are good for hills because they are more stable and offer more control. However, you might need to practice more to get good at moving uphill on a longboard because it’s quite tricky on that. Meanwhile, for downhill, longboards are a perfect choice.
Yes, skaters skate uphill. Although it’s harder, the choice is yours either to skate uphill or downhill.
So far you’ve learned to skateboard uphill, but if you want to learn how to ride downhill on a skateboard you can refer to our previous article about it.
Conclusion
Hopefully, you learned how to skateboard uphill properly. Skateboarding uphill can be a lot of fun, but it’s important to remain focused and safe.
If you follow these tips, you will be able to move uphill with ease and have a great time doing so! If you have any questions or comments, please let me know in the comments section below!
I am James Buckridge, the founder of skateboardidea.com. Skateboarding is my passion, and I have years of teaching experience in this field. Our vision and mission is to provide you with accurate information on everything related to skateboarding. Catch me on Twitter & Pinterest.