How to ollie snowboard

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Last updated: April 4, 2026

Quick Answer: To ollie on a snowboard, you need to pop the tail off the snow by extending your back leg, then slide your front foot up the board towards the nose. This technique lifts the board into the air, allowing you to clear small obstacles or gain airtime. Consistent practice is key to mastering the timing and coordination required.

Key Facts

The ollie is a fundamental snowboarding trick, originating from skateboarding.
It involves popping the tail and sliding the front foot.
Proper timing and body positioning are crucial for success.
Practice on flat ground before attempting over obstacles.
The average snowboarder can learn to ollie consistently within a few weeks of dedicated practice.

What is a Snowboard Ollie?

The snowboard ollie is a foundational trick that allows a rider to jump without the use of a ramp or natural terrain feature. It's essentially lifting the snowboard off the snow while in motion. This technique is crucial for progressing to more advanced freestyle maneuvers, like jumping over obstacles, getting onto rails, or simply clearing uneven terrain.

How to Ollie on a Snowboard: A Step-by-Step Guide

Mastering the snowboard ollie requires a combination of timing, coordination, and understanding of board mechanics. Here's a breakdown of the process:

1. Preparation and Stance:

Start on a flat, groomed slope with gentle speed. Ensure your snowboard is waxed and your bindings are set to a comfortable stance. Your knees should be slightly bent, and your weight should be centered over the board.

2. The Pop:

As you approach the point where you want to initiate the ollie, shift your weight slightly onto your back foot. This loads the tail of the board. Then, explosively extend your back leg downwards, essentially 'popping' the tail of the snowboard off the snow. This action is similar to how you would pop a skateboard.

3. The Slide:

Immediately after popping the tail, slide your front foot up the board towards the nose. Use the edge of your boot to catch the upward-moving board and guide it. This sliding motion levels the board out in the air and brings the nose up.

4. The Peak and Landing:

As the board rises, bring your knees up towards your chest to maximize the height and keep the board close to your feet. Try to level the board out in the air. As you descend, extend your legs slightly to absorb the impact of the landing. Aim to land with your weight centered and your knees bent.

5. Practice and Refinement:

The ollie is a skill that requires repetition. Start by practicing the motions on flat ground without much speed. Focus on getting the timing right between the pop and the slide. Once you can consistently get the board off the snow, gradually increase your speed and try to ollie over small, forgiving obstacles like a line drawn in the snow or a very small bump.

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them:

Not Enough Pop: Ensure you are fully extending your back leg and using your calf muscles to snap the tail down.
No Front Foot Slide: The slide is crucial for leveling the board. Practice the motion of sliding your foot up the board.
Leaning Back Too Much: Keep your weight centered. Leaning too far back will make it difficult to pop effectively.
Knees Not Coming Up: Bringing your knees towards your chest after the pop and slide helps control the board in the air.
Landing Stiff-Legged: Always be prepared to absorb the landing by bending your knees.

The snowboard ollie is a challenging but rewarding trick. With patience and consistent practice, you'll be able to master it and open up a whole new world of snowboarding possibilities.