Req 2d11 — Braking Techniques

Skateboards have no mechanical brakes — stopping is entirely a rider skill. You need to demonstrate at least two of the stopping methods below.

Method 1: Foot Drag

The most basic stop for beginners.

1. Slowly lower your back foot off the board until the sole of your shoe makes contact with the pavement.
2. Apply gentle downward pressure — just enough to create friction.
3. Increase pressure gradually to decelerate smoothly.

The drawback: foot dragging wears out shoe soles quickly. It is most useful at low speed.

Method 2: Tail Drag (Tail Scrape)

Useful for moderate speed stops.

1. Apply downward pressure with your back foot on the tail of the board.
2. This raises the nose and brings the tail into contact with the pavement.
3. The friction from the tail scraping decelerates the board.

Note: this method wears down the tail over time. It is less precise than a power slide but more reliable than foot drag at moderate speeds.

Method 3: Power Slide (Advanced)

A rapid stop used by more experienced skateboarders.

1. From moderate to fast speed, twist your body and the board 90° so the board slides sideways relative to your direction of travel.
2. The wheels scrape across the pavement rather than rolling, creating rapid friction and deceleration.
3. A successful power slide leaves a satisfying rubber stripe on the pavement.

Power slides require good balance and body rotation timing. They are the most effective stopping method at speed but take significant practice.

Method 4: Stepping Off

Sometimes the simplest stop is stepping off the board and letting it coast to a stop naturally. At slow speed, this is a valid and safe technique.

1. Shift weight to the front foot.
2. Step off with the back foot and let the foot take your weight.
3. Stop the board with your foot or pick it up.

At high speed, jumping off a moving skateboard without control is dangerous. Reserve this for slow-speed situations.

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