How to Ollie on a Tech Deck: Mastering the Miniature Skateboarding Trick

Tech Decks, the finger-sized skateboards, offer a unique way to experience the thrill of skateboarding in the palm of your hand. While they may not require as much physical effort as full-sized skateboards, mastering tricks on a Tech Deck can be just as rewarding. One of the fundamental tricks in the world of Tech Deck skateboarding is the ollie. Here’s how to perform an ollie on a Tech Deck:

Understanding the Ollie

The ollie is a foundational skateboarding trick that involves lifting both the front and rear wheels of the skateboard off the ground simultaneously. It’s the basis for many other tricks, making it essential to learn for anyone looking to excel in Tech Deck skateboarding.

Steps to Perform an Ollie on a Tech Deck:

1. Set Up Your Tech Deck

Before attempting an ollie, ensure your Tech Deck is in good condition. Make sure the trucks (the metal parts that hold the wheels) are tightened appropriately, and the grip tape is clean for optimal traction.

2. Finger Placement

Place your index and middle fingers on the Tech Deck, with your index finger closer to the tail (the narrower end) and your middle finger closer to the center of the deck. Your thumb should rest on the underside of the deck for stability.

3. Positioning

Position the Tech Deck so that the tail is closer to your body, and the nose (the wider end) points away from you. This is the standard position for performing an ollie.

4. Pop the Tail

To initiate the ollie, press down firmly on the tail of the Tech Deck with your index finger while keeping your middle finger steady. This motion is similar to the way you’d pop the tail of a full-sized skateboard.

5. Slide Your Front Finger

As you pop the tail, simultaneously slide your front finger (middle finger) toward the nose of the deck. The key is to find the right balance between the pop and the slide, which will create the lift needed for the ollie.

6. Level the Deck

As the Tech Deck starts to rise, level it out by slightly tilting your middle finger upward. This will help both the front and rear wheels clear the ground.

7. Catch the Deck

Once the Tech Deck reaches its peak height, start to bring your middle finger back toward the tail to level it out. This motion will allow you to catch the deck and prepare for the landing.

8. Land Smoothly

To complete the ollie, aim to land all four wheels of the Tech Deck back on the surface simultaneously. Bend your middle finger slightly to absorb the impact and ensure a smooth landing.

9. Practice and Persistence

The ollie on a Tech Deck requires practice to master. Start with small ollies and gradually work your way up to higher ones. Experiment with the timing and pressure on the tail and slide to find the perfect balance for your ollies.

Remember that learning to ollie on a Tech Deck takes time and patience. With consistent practice and determination, you’ll improve your skills and be able to perform more complex tricks on your miniature skateboard. Enjoy the journey of mastering this classic skateboarding move in miniature form!