Lightness in Skateboarding: Tips to Ride Like Air

If you ever feel stuck on the board, the word “lightness” might be the missing piece. Lightness isn’t about magic; it’s about how you move, what you ride, and the mental vibe you bring. Below are real‑world steps that let you glide smoother, pop higher, and stay relaxed.

1. Gear Up for Lightness

The first place to look is your hardware. A lighter deck doesn’t mean cheap – choose a board made from high‑quality maple or bamboo that’s thin enough to flex but still strong. Look for a deck width that matches your shoe size; a board too wide forces you to push harder, which kills the light feel.

Next, think about wheels. Softer wheels (around 78a‑90a) absorb bumps and let you maintain speed without grinding the surface. If you’re into street skating, a slightly harder wheel (92a‑99a) gives crisp response without adding unnecessary weight. Keep bearings clean; dirty bearings add friction and make every push feel heavier.

2. Body Position & Movement

How you stand does half the work. Keep your knees bent, shoulders relaxed, and weight centered over the trucks. When you’re too far forward or back, the board feels sluggish. Practice the “neutral stance”: imagine a line from your head to your toes – you should be directly over it.

Push with a smooth, even motion. Instead of a hard burst, think of a gentle roll that builds momentum. A consistent push means the board stays light and you waste less energy. When it comes to tricks, use your whole body. For a pop, bend low, snap the board with a quick ankle flick, and let your hips lead the rotation. Using your hips, not just your feet, takes the strain off your legs and makes the trick feel effortless.

Breathing matters too. A tense breath makes muscles tight, which adds weight to every movement. Take a deep breath before a trick or a long run, then exhale as you start. That tiny rhythm shift can turn a clunky ride into a flowing one.

Practice these habits on a smooth surface first. Once the movements feel natural, try them on rougher terrain. Your board will adapt, and the light feeling will follow.

Finally, keep your mindset light. If you’re stressed about falling, every push feels heavy. Remind yourself that skateboarding is about play. A relaxed mind lets the body move freely, and that freedom is the core of lightness.

Combine the right board, clean components, proper stance, smooth pushing, and calm focus. You’ll notice a noticeable drop in effort and a boost in control. Lightness isn’t a myth – it’s a skill you can train every day on the pavement.