How to ollie fingerboard

Content on WhatAnswers is provided "as is" for informational purposes. While we strive for accuracy, we make no guarantees. Content is AI-assisted and should not be used as professional advice.

Last updated: April 4, 2026

Quick Answer: To ollie on a fingerboard, you need to pop the tail off the ground by flicking your wrist downwards while simultaneously sliding your index finger up the board. This action lifts the tail and then the nose, allowing the board to level out in the air.

Key Facts

The ollie is the most fundamental trick in fingerboarding, crucial for progressing to more advanced maneuvers.
Proper wrist action is key: a sharp downward flick for the pop and a smooth upward slide for the level-out.
Practice is essential; it can take hundreds of attempts to consistently land a clean ollie.
The angle of your slide and the timing of your pop significantly affect the height and control of the ollie.
Starting with a slight bend in your knees (finger joints) can improve stability and power.

Overview: Mastering the Fingerboard Ollie

The fingerboard ollie is the foundational trick that unlocks a world of possibilities in fingerboarding. It's the act of making the fingerboard jump into the air without the use of your hands, essentially mimicking the motion of a skateboard ollie. This seemingly simple maneuver requires precise coordination between your fingers, wrist, and the board itself. Mastering the ollie is not just about getting the board off the ground; it's about controlling its ascent, leveling it out in the air, and preparing for a smooth landing. This guide will break down the technique, common mistakes, and practice tips to help you achieve a consistent and stylish fingerboard ollie.

Understanding the Mechanics of an Ollie

At its core, the fingerboard ollie is a two-part motion, executed in rapid succession:

1. The Pop:

This is the initial action that lifts the tail of the fingerboard off the ground. It's achieved by a quick, sharp flick of your wrist downwards, striking the tail of the board. Think of it like snapping a rubber band – a sudden burst of energy. The force of this pop is what provides the initial upward momentum for the trick.

2. The Slide and Level-Out:

Immediately after the pop, and almost simultaneously, your index finger (or the finger you use to "slide") moves upwards along the length of the fingerboard. This sliding motion is crucial for two reasons. Firstly, it guides the board upwards. Secondly, and most importantly, it levels out the board in the air. As your finger slides towards the nose, it catches the upward momentum and pushes the board flat. The angle and speed of this slide dictate how high and how level your ollie will be. If you don't slide properly, the board will likely just flip or land crooked.

Step-by-Step Guide to Performing an Ollie

Step 1: Stance and Grip

Place your fingerboard on a smooth, flat surface. Position your index finger near the tail of the board, ready to pop. Your middle finger should be placed slightly behind the front bolts, ready for the slide. Experiment with finger placement; some find placing the index finger directly on the tail works best, while others prefer it just behind.

Step 2: The Pop

Bend your knees (finger joints) slightly to prepare for the motion. Exhale and execute a sharp, downward flick of your wrist. The goal is to make the tail of the board snap off the ground quickly. Don't be afraid to put some force into this flick.

Step 3: The Slide

As the tail pops off the ground, immediately slide your index finger upwards along the deck. Apply gentle pressure and aim to guide the board straight up. The key is to slide your finger all the way to the nose of the board. This action helps to level the board out in the air.

Step 4: The Level-Out and Catch

As your finger reaches the nose, continue the upward motion. This will bring the nose of the board up and level it out. Simultaneously, you'll want to "catch" the board in the air. This often involves slightly adjusting the pressure from your sliding finger to keep it steady.

Step 5: The Landing

As the board levels out, prepare for landing. Bend your knees again to absorb the impact. Aim to land with both feet (fingers) on the bolts, which provides the most stability. The goal is to land smoothly and maintain balance.

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Not enough pop: If your board isn't getting off the ground, you might not be flicking your wrist down hard enough. Focus on a sharper, quicker flick.
Board flips or turns: This usually happens if the slide isn't straight or if you're not sliding high enough. Ensure your slide is directly up the board and practice sliding all the way to the nose.
Board lands crooked: This can be due to uneven pressure during the slide or an inconsistent pop. Try to maintain even pressure throughout the slide and ensure a consistent pop.
Not jumping with the board: While you're not physically jumping, your fingers need to move with the board. Ensure your sliding finger follows the board's upward trajectory.
Landing too hard or off-balance: Practice absorbing the landing by bending your finger joints. Consistent practice will improve your balance.

Tips for Practicing Your Ollie

Start slow: Focus on the motion first. Practice the pop and slide separately before trying to combine them at full speed.
Use different surfaces: While flat surfaces are best for learning, practicing on slightly rougher surfaces can help you get a feel for controlling the board.
Watch tutorials: Observing experienced fingerboarders perform the ollie can provide valuable visual cues.
Be patient: The ollie is a challenging trick. It takes time, repetition, and dedication to master. Don't get discouraged by initial failures.
Consistency is key: Aim for a consistent motion rather than just occasional successes. Focus on perfecting the technique with each attempt.

By understanding the mechanics, following the steps, and diligently practicing, you'll soon be ollieing your fingerboard with confidence and style, opening the door to a vast array of exciting fingerboard tricks.