How to Drop in on a skateboard (Video & Images)

Dropping in on a skateboard for the first time can be both thrilling and intimidating. It's a rite of passage for many skateboarders and is a fundamental skill to learn if you want to progress in the sport. However, the thought of rolling down a ramp with a steep incline can be daunting, and it's not uncommon for first-timers to feel nervous or hesitant. In this article, we'll break down the steps of dropping in on a skateboard and provide some tips and tricks to help you overcome your fears and master this essential skill. Whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced skateboarder looking to improve your technique, read on to learn everything you need to know about dropping in on a skateboard for the first time.

What You Should do Before Attempting to Drop In

Dropping in on a skateboard ramp for the first time can be both challenging and intimidating, but it's something anyone can learn if they have the patience and are ready to learn. You can use many more obstacles at the skate park by learning to drop in, and this is why I recommend learning it at the start of your skateboard journey.

Start with the basics

Before attempting to drop in, make sure you are comfortable riding your skateboard and can confidently kick-turn and carve on a ramp.

Watch others

Observe other skateboarders who are dropping in and pay attention to their technique. Ask questions about their approach and how they position their body.

Practice on a small ramp

Start on a small ramp or bank, one that's not too steep, to get comfortable with the sensation of dropping in. This will help you build confidence and get used to the feeling of the board rolling beneath you.

Have someone spot you

Having a friend or mentor spot you can provide an extra level of support and safety. They can help guide your positioning and give you a push if needed. The first drop is usually scary so do anything you can to feel comfortable dropping. Dropping in will quickly become muscle memory after you have done it a few times with or without help.

Keep trying

Dropping in on a skateboard takes practice, so don't get discouraged if you don't get it right away. Keep practicing and trying until you feel comfortable and confident with the technique.

Overall, having a supportive friend or mentor who can provide guidance and encouragement can be incredibly helpful when learning to drop in on a skateboard. Remember to take things slow and stay safe, and with enough practice and determination, you'll be dropping in like a pro in no time! Remember to use skateboard shoes while riding to get the maximum control and stability.

How to Drop In on a Skateboard Step by Step

Remember, dropping in on a mini ramp takes practice and patience. Start small and gradually work your way up to bigger ramps as you get more comfortable. Always wear protective gear, including a helmet, knee pads, and elbow pads. Practice on a flat surface before trying on a mini ramp. Good luck!

Positioning and Stance

To start, make sure you are standing at the top of the mini ramp with your skateboard perpendicular to the coping. Your front foot should be just behind the front truck bolts, while your back foot should be on the tail of the board, with your toes hanging off the edge. Make sure your feet are positioned in a comfortable and stable stance.

Getting Ready

Bend your knees slightly and shift your weight forward, so your front shoulder are over your front foot. Look down at the coping and pick a spot to aim for where the ramp's transition starts to flatten out. This is where you'll want to land.

Dropping In

When you're ready, shift your weight forward and stomp down on the nose of the skateboard. This will cause the front wheels to fall towards the ground and drop into the ramp. Make sure to stay centered over the board when you hit the ramp to avoid falling forward or backwards.

Don't shift all your weight to your front foot, I have seen many people fall on their face while leaning to much forward.

Riding Down

As you ride down the ramp, keep your body weight centered over the board and your knees bent. Don't lean too far forward or backward, or you risk losing your balance and falling. Keep your eyes focused on the spot where you want to land.

Coming Up

As you approach the bottom of the ramp, start leaning back slightly and use your back foot to steer your board back up the ramp. Keep your weight centered over the board, and don't lean too far back, or you'll lose your balance. Use your back foot to guide the board up the ramp, and focus on keeping your momentum going.

Riding Away Clean

As you reach the top of the ramp, shift your weight forward again and ride away clean. Make sure to keep your body weight centered over the board and your knees bent. Focus on maintaining your speed and balance as you ride away.

Safety gear

Firstly, skateboarding can be a dangerous sport, and falls and collisions are common. Wearing protective gear can help prevent serious injuries and reduce the risk of head trauma, cuts, and bruises. Head injuries, in particular, can be life-threatening, so it's crucial to wear a properly-fitted helmet that meets safety standards. Knee pads and elbow pads can also help prevent scrapes, bruises, and more serious injuries to these vulnerable areas of the body.

Secondly, using protective gear provides confidence to try new tricks and push your limits without fear of injury. Knowing that you're protected can give you the freedom to explore new techniques and styles, which can ultimately lead to greater progress and skill development. This increased confidence can also help you enjoy skating more, which is the ultimate goal for most skaters.

Thirdly, protective gear can provide comfort and support during long skate sessions. Skateboarding can be physically demanding, and wearing gear that's designed to fit snugly and comfortably can help prevent discomfort and fatigue. It can also help prevent injuries caused by repetitive stress or strain, such as wrist injuries from frequent falls.

Lastly, wearing protective gear sets a positive example for other skaters, particularly younger ones who may be looking up to you as a role model. It shows that you take safety seriously and that you're responsible for your own well-being. This can inspire others to do the same and promote a culture of safety and respect within the skateboarding community.

In conclusion, using protective gear is an essential part of skateboarding, especially for new skaters who are just starting to learn the ropes. It can help prevent serious injuries, provide confidence to try new tricks, offer comfort and support during long sessions, and set a positive example for others. So, always wear your protective gear, and make sure it's properly fitted and maintained. This way, you can stay safe, comfortable, and confident as you learn and progress in the sport.

Conclusion

Dropping in on a skateboard for the first time can be a scary experience, but with the right technique and mindset, it can also be an exhilarating one. Remember to start small and gradually work your way up to bigger ramps as you gain confidence and experience.

Always wear protective gear, including a helmet, knee pads, and elbow pads, and don't be afraid to ask for help or advice from more experienced skateboarders. With practice, patience, and determination, you can master the art of dropping in and take your skateboarding skills to the next level. So, grab your board, find a mini ramp, and give it a try - you might just surprise yourself with what you're capable of!

Learning to drop in is the start of learning many more skateboard tricks, especially if you want to learn to skate in a mini ramp, quarter pipe, half pipe or smaller ramps, so try hard and unlock new tricks to try out!