Skateboarding and longboarding are not only popular recreational activities but also a means of transportation for many people. With the increasing interest in these activities, the market is filled with various types of wheels of different shapes and sizes.
One of the most common questions that skateboarders and longboarders ask is whether they can slide on 78A wheels.
This article will answer this question and provide you with tips and tricks to enhance your skating experience.
Can You Slide on 78A Wheels?
The answer to this question is yes, you can slide on 78A wheels. However, sliding on softer wheels like 78A requires a different technique compared to harder wheels. Soft wheels have more grip and are better for cruising, carving, and cruising over rough surfaces.
But with the right technique, you can slide on these wheels as well.
To slide on 78A wheels, you need to master the following techniques:
- Stand in a comfortable position on your board with your feet slightly wider than shoulder-width apart.
- Initiate the slide by turning your shoulders and leaning towards the direction you want to slide.
- Lift your heels slightly and push your toes down to apply pressure on the edges of the board.
- Shift your weight towards the front of the board and extend your legs to create more pressure on the wheels.
- Once the wheels start to slide, control the slide by shifting your weight and adjusting the angle of the board.
- When you are ready to end the slide, bring your wheels back to the ground by shifting your weight to the opposite side.
To slide on 78A wheels effectively, you need to apply more pressure with your back foot while leaning forward slightly toward your front foot. This will transfer weight onto your front truck and reduce traction on your rear truck’s wheels.
Once you feel your board begin to lose traction or start sliding, you can initiate a slide by swinging your hips around while pressing down with your back foot to initiate the slide. Remember that sliding requires practice and patience, so don’t get discouraged if it takes a few tries before you get it right!
learning tricks like a revert will help with getting comfortable with breaking friction with your wheels. Another great way to learn is to get some sliding gloves, allowing you to get lower to the ground and use your hand as a brace when you slide.
below are some recommended 78a slimeball wheels.
Board setup
Your board setup plays an essential role in how well you can slide on 78A wheels. The type of trucks you use affects how much leverage you have while turning and ultimately impacts your ability to initiate slides properly. Looser trucks are generally better for sliding as they allow for greater maneuverability during turns but may be difficult for those who are newbies at skateboarding as it requires greater control over balance when standing stationary or moving slowly.) Additionally, having good quality bearings reduces friction between surfaces which helps with rolling speed allowing easier initiation of slides especially at higher speeds while also reducing wear and tear significantly making them last longer.
Rider weight and style
Your body weight and riding style play significant roles in your ability to slide on 78A wheels. Generally, heavier riders require harder wheels to slide effectively, whereas lighter riders can use softer wheels.
However, this does not mean that heavier riders cannot slide on 78A wheels. It’s just a little more challenging because of the increased pressure they exert on the board and the fact that they require more force to make the board break loose into a slide.
Also, your riding style will determine how you approach sliding on 78A wheels. If you tend to lean more towards freeriding than downhill skating, then sliding will come naturally to you.
Tips and Tricks for Sliding on 78A Wheels
Proper Body Positioning and Technique
When it comes to sliding on softer wheels like 78A, proper body positioning and technique are key. You want to start by shifting your weight towards the back foot, bending your knees, and lowering your center of gravity.
This will make it easier to control your board’s movement and allow you to maneuver into different slides. To initiate a slide, you need to apply pressure on the side of the board with your back foot while pushing outwards with your front foot.
As the wheels lose traction, you can then use your shoulders and hips to turn into the slide. It’s important to note that each type of slide requires a specific body positioning and technique.
For example, a “Coleman” slide involves turning your body 90 degrees while leaning forward over the front truck and placing your hand on the ground. On the other hand, a “Stand-Up” slide requires staying upright while initiating the turn with just your hips.
Importance of Practice and Patience
Becoming proficient at sliding on 78A wheels takes time, practice, and patience. It’s not something that can be mastered overnight or in a few days – it takes weeks or even months of dedication. Start by practicing basic slides like “Powerslides” or “180s”.
These are great beginner slides that will help you understand how sliding works without putting too much strain on yourself or risking injury. As you become more comfortable with these basic slides, start practicing more advanced techniques like “Shuvits”, “Heelside Stand-Ups”, or even “Switch Slides”.
These require more skill and control but will ultimately make you a better rider! Remember to always wear protective gear like helmets, knee pads, elbow pads while learning new tricks or slides.
Falling is a part of the learning process, but it’s important to minimize the risk of injury by wearing proper protection. Sliding on 78A wheels is possible and can be a great addition to your skateboarding repertoire.
It requires proper body positioning, technique, practice, and patience. With dedication and time, you can master this skill and impress your friends with your sliding abilities!
FAQs
Q: What is the difference between hard and soft wheels?
A: Hard wheels have a higher durometer rating and are better for high-speed skating, while soft wheels have a lower durometer rating and are better for cruising and carving.
Q: Can I slide on 78A wheels if I am a beginner?
A: Yes, you can slide on 78A wheels as a beginner. However, it is important to start with smaller slides and gradually progress to longer slides.
Q: Can I use 78A wheels for cruising?
A: Yes, 78A wheels are great for cruising because they provide a smoother ride on rough surfaces and have better shock absorption.
Conclusion
In conclusion, sliding on 78A wheels is possible with the right technique and practice. Soft wheels like 78A provide a smoother ride and better shock absorption, making them great for cruising.
