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Do you wonder how to stop on a longboard? Picture this: you’re flying downhill on your longboard, the wind’s in your face, and everything feels perfect… until you realize you need to stop. Fast. No panic, my friend. I’ve got your back. Here’s the deal: knowing how to stop isn’t just about avoiding a wipeout (though, let’s be honest, that’s a big part of it). It’s about riding smarter, feeling in control, and actually enjoying the thrill without turning into a human bowling ball.
So, let’s break it down. No fluff, just the good stuff.
Why Stopping Isn’t Optional
Longboarding is about flow, sure. But what’s flow without control? Chaos. Stopping the right way saves your knees, your gear, and, you know, your life. Whether you’re cruising, carving, or bombing a hill, mastering these techniques makes you a better rider, plain and simple.
How to Stop on a Longboard
1. Foot Braking: The “Basic But Brilliant” Technique
This is where every beginner starts—and for good reason. It’s simple, effective, and doesn’t make you look like a lunatic sliding across the road.
How to Do It:
- Lean Forward Like a Pro: Shift about 70% of your weight to your front foot to keep the board steady.
- Drag That Back Foot: Gently (keyword: gently) drop your back foot to the ground and let it skim alongside the board.
- Ease Into It: Don’t slam your foot down like you’re stomping a cockroach. Gradual pressure is your friend.
Pro Tips:
- Invest in decent shoes. Trust me, shredded sneakers are not a vibe.
- Avoid this at high speeds unless you’re auditioning for a crash-test dummy gig.
- Practice on flat ground first—hills are unforgiving teachers.
2. Powersliding: For When You’re Feeling Fancy
This one’s not just a technique—it’s a flex. You’ll look cool and stop like a boss. Powersliding is all about skidding your wheels sideways to create friction.
How to Pull It Off:
- Set the Stage: Start carving to one side to prep for the slide.
- Front Foot, Forward: Lean slightly forward to lighten the back wheels.
- Rotate and Slide: Twist your shoulders and hips to face perpendicular, then kick the back wheels out like you mean it.
Flavors of Powerslides:
- Frontside (Heelside Pendy): Lean back on your heels and turn backward.
- Backside (Toeside Pendy): Lean forward on your toes and turn forward.
Pro Tips:
- Slide gloves = lifesavers. Your hands will thank you.
- Harder wheels make sliding smoother. Softer ones? Not so much.
- Start on slick surfaces (think polished concrete) to get the feel.
3. Carving: Speed Control Without Stopping
Who says you have to stop? Carving lets you slow down while keeping the ride going. Perfect for downhill runs when a full stop isn’t in the cards.
How to Do It:
- Sway side to side in wide, controlled turns.
- Sharpen your turns to bleed off more speed.
- Stay balanced—knees bent, body low, and don’t flail your arms like a cartoon character.
Pro Tips:
- Best used on open, smooth roads. No potholes, please.
- Combine with foot braking for extra control.
4. Emergency Stops: When S* Hits the Fan**
Sometimes, you don’t have time to be graceful. Enter the emergency moves.
Grass Roll: Spot a grassy patch? Steer off the road, jump off the board, and roll. Yeah, you’ll look ridiculous, but you’ll be alive.
Shoulder Roll: No grass? Go for the Hollywood dive: drop your lead shoulder and roll onto your back. It’s dramatic but effective.
5. Heelside Drag: The Sneaky Option
Want to save your shoes? Try this underrated move. Place your back foot lightly on the wheel or truck and apply just enough pressure to slow down.
Pro Tips:
- Works best with drop-through boards.
- Definitely not for high speeds unless you enjoy road rash.
Non-Negotiables: Gear Up or Shut Up
If you think safety gear isn’t cool, wait until you’re explaining your face scabs at work. Here’s your starter pack:
- Helmet: Your brain is worth it.
- Slide Gloves: Essential for powersliding and pendulums.
- Pads (Knees + Elbows): Because asphalt doesn’t care about your skin.
- Solid Shoes: Durable soles mean fewer tears (and ruined kicks).
FAQs: Because You’re Probably Wondering…
Can I stop without wrecking my shoes?
Sure—powersliding and carving are shoe-friendly. Foot braking? Not so much.
What’s best for beginners?
Foot braking. It’s easy, safe, and gets the job done.
How do I stop at high speeds?
Powersliding. Just don’t skip the gloves unless you want to kiss the pavement.
Is jumping off ever okay?
Only as a last resort. And if you do, remember: roll, don’t pancake.
Wrap It Up: Your Ride, Your Rules
Learning to stop isn’t optional. Start with foot braking, work your way up to powersliding, and always keep safety first. The more you practice, the smoother (and safer) your rides will be.
Now, grab your gear, hit the pavement, and show that longboard who’s boss. You’ve got this!
