A Tutorial on How to Airwalk

The airwalk is an old-school skateboard trick that was invented by world-renowned Tony Hawk in the early 1980s. According to "Transworld Skateboarding" magazine, the airwalk involves grabbing the nose of the board while kicking your feet in opposing directions. While the airwalk is commonly executed on inclined ramps, certain skateboard pioneers have taken to the street to perform the trick down stair sets and grass gaps. Practice on a small kicker ramp to get comfortable with the necessary technique.

Things You'll Need

  • Kicker ramp
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Instructions

    • 1

      Lower your skateboard onto the ground about 40 feet away from the kicker. Align your lead foot over the four bolts located near the front of the skateboard. Propel the board forward by pushing off the pavement with your opposing foot.

    • 2

      Continue the pushing technique until you attain a moderate amount of speed. Lift your pushing foot onto the rear of the board. Bend your knees as you approach the kicker.

    • 3

      Extend your arms to your sides for increased balance. Shift your weight to your back foot as the skateboard wheels ascend the ramp face. Push down with your back foot as you reach the summit of the kicker.

    • 4

      Jump vertically while extending your non-dominant hand towards the front end of the skateboard. Grab the nose of the board to initiate the airwalk. Remove your feet from the griptape of the skateboard.

    • 5

      Kick your lead foot forward and your back foot backwards. Hold the airwalk pose momentarily as you reach the peak height of your jump. Lower the skateboard under your feet and bend your knees as the wheels make contact with the ground.