Skateboarding
Skateboarding
Mastering the airwalk on a skateboard
All the steps for learning how to airwalk on a skateboard.
Originating from the streets of skateboarding culture, the airwalk is a move that's just as cool as it sounds. This beginner skateboard trick is a perfect mix of technique and style for pro skateboarders and hobbyists alike.
As professional skateboarder and Red Bull athlete Jake Wooten said, “Skating's what I need to do – it's fun and it makes me happy."
Jake Wooten at Red Bull Drop In Japan Tour demo in Osaka in 2023
© Kenji Haruta / Red Bull Content Pool
If you’re anything like Wooten and live for the thrill of skating, you’re raring to tackle the airwalk. Before you jump into this trick, it’s a good idea to have some key skateboarding skills under your belt. This article will lay out all the steps for learning how to airwalk on a skateboard. So grab your board — it’s time to practice!
01
Preparing for an airwalk
Just like when performing any other skateboarding trick, it’s important to make sure you're properly equipped when preparing to do an airwalk. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- Skateboard. You’re only as comfortable performing new tricks as you are on your board. While you don’t need a specific type of board for this trick, one that suits your style and skill level will give you more control and confidence.
- Helmet. Safety should always be a top priority when skateboarding, especially when you’re trying out new tricks. Choose a helmet that fits snugly (but not too tight) to protect your head from potential impacts from falls during practice.
- Knee and elbow pads. Alongside a helmet, knee and elbow pads are protective gear that can prevent serious injuries while skateboarding. Choose quality knee and elbow pads that offer flexibility and reliable protection without sacrificing comfort.
02
Understanding the airwalk
Ryder Lawson performs an airwalk fakie at Oregon skatepark near Portland
© Cameron Markin / Red Bull Content Pool
You’re cruising on your board and, suddenly, you pop it into the air, kick one leg in front of you and the other behind you, and gracefully land back on your board. It’s a move that makes you feel like you’re defying gravity.
The airwalk gained widespread popularity in the 1980s as skaters constantly pushed the boundaries of what was possible on a board. This trick quickly became a staple on the skateboarding scene. Notable skateboarders Tony Hawk and Rodney Mullen were among the pioneers who showed off the airwalk and its potential in competitions and videos. Their daring performances helped solidify the airwalk's status as an iconic trick.
03
Step-by-step instructions
Ready to add your name to the list of airwalkers? Here are the specific steps to nailing this classic trick.
- Preparation. Before attempting the airwalk, you’ll need to know how to do an ollie. Practice pushing off on your board, popping it into the air with height and control, and landing smoothly.
- Positioning. Once you’ve got the ollie down pat, position yourself on your skateboard in a comfortable stance with your knees slightly bent. Place your back foot on the tail of your board and your front foot just behind your board’s front trucks. Start riding, and focus on picking up enough momentum to get enough height for the airwalk.
- The jump. With your stance locked in, it's time to initiate the jump. In a swift motion, press down firmly on the tail of your board with your back foot to pop the front of your board into the air.
- The grab. As your board rises into the air, reach down slightly with your leading hand to grab the board beneath you. Pull the board by its nose out from under your feet.
- The airwalk motion. While holding your board out, perform the airwalk motion by kicking your front leg out in front of you and your back leg behind you. This movement mimics that of walking in the air.
- Landing. As you reach the peak of your jump, bring your legs back to your initial stance. Place your board under your feet. With a slight bend in your knees, land on your board and transition into your normal riding position. Once you’re rolling away smoothly, you can officially say you’ve done an airwalk.
04
Tips and tricks for performing an airwalk
Participant does an airwalk during Red Bull Dala The City in Johannesburg
© Craig Kolesky / Red Bull Content Pool
As you practice the above steps, these tips and tricks can make your airwalking practice much more successful.
- Focus on timing. Perfecting the timing of your movements is key to performing a smooth airwalk. Practice getting enough height in your jump and coordinating your launch with the motion of kicking your legs. Your legs should be extended at the same time your board is fully out from under your feet.
- Don’t force your board under your feet. Handling your board with too much force can cause you to land on the ground instead of your board. As you descend from your airwalk, gently guide your board back into position beneath you to set yourself up for a perfect landing.
- Avoid overcommitting during movements. Overcommitting often leads to trying to force the trick too aggressively, which can result in loss of control and balance mid-air. Instead of focusing on making the highest jump possible, aim for smooth and controlled movements throughout the entire trick.
- Keep practicing. Like any other skateboarding trick, mastering the airwalk requires regular practice. Start by practicing on flat ground before progressing to ramps or obstacles. Don't get discouraged by falls or failures. Every attempt is an opportunity to learn and improve.
05
Advanced airwalk techniques to try
Got the hang of the regular airwalk? Give yourself a greater challenge by trying out some new variations of this trick.
- Ramps and halfpipes. Once you feel confident on flat ground, take your airwalk skills to the ramps and halfpipes. These transitions offer more space to jump higher and pull off bigger tricks. Start by pumping your board for speed. Then, time your jump with the top of the ramp.
- Airwalks onto handrails. For an extra challenge, try doing airwalks onto handrails. This version of the trick takes a lot of balance and control. The key is focusing on landing smoothly and staying centered over your board. Start small and work your way up to taller and more challenging rails.
- Transitions. Airwalks can also be a great setup for other tricks like spins and flips. There are endless possibilities. Experiment with mixing your airwalks with these moves to create some impressive combos.
Having fun on the ground and in the air
Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your skills to the next level, airwalking can give you a thrill as you defy gravity on your skateboard. While you work on learning this trick, try not to get so caught up in the technique you forget to have fun. Skateboarding is all about expressing yourself and taking on a challenge. Before you know it, you’ll be heading up and away.
