The 900 skateboarding trick is one of the most iconic and technically demanding maneuvers in the history of skateboarding.
It involves a skateboarder performing two and a half mid-air rotations—equivalent to 900 degrees—while airborne on a ramp. This comprehensive guide will break down the trick’s origins, technical details, historical significance, and variations, providing a deep understanding of what makes the 900 such a legendary feat.
What Is the 900 Skateboarding Trick?
The 900 is an aerial spin where the skateboarder rotates 2½ times (900 degrees) around their longitudinal axis while in the air above a ramp. The trick requires the skater to launch off the ramp with enough height and speed to complete the rotations and then land facing forward on the ramp again. The complexity lies in the speed of rotation, balance, and precise timing needed to land safely without losing control of the board.
Historical Background and Significance
The 900 was first successfully landed by Tony Hawk on June 27, 1999, during the X Games V. After multiple failed attempts and even going beyond the official competition time limit, Hawk completed the trick live on television, cementing his place in skateboarding history. His arms windmilled during the spin, and his hand barely grazed the ramp upon landing, but he managed to ride away cleanly.
Before Hawk’s breakthrough, other skateboarders such as Tas Pappas, Danny Way, and Rob “Sluggo” Boyce had attempted the trick, but none had landed it in competition. There has been some controversy and debate over the ownership and credit for the trick, with some suggesting that Hawk’s achievement overshadowed earlier attempts by other skaters.
The 900 is often considered the pinnacle of vert skateboarding tricks due to its difficulty and the physical demands it places on the skater. It opened the door for even more complex aerial spins like the 1080 and 1260, which have been landed in recent years by younger skaters and professionals.
Why Is the 900 So Difficult?
The 900 is considered one of the hardest skateboarding tricks because it demands:
Exceptional aerial height and speed to complete the rotations.
Precise timing and body control to maintain balance during rapid spinning.
Acute spatial awareness to know when to prepare for landing.
Physical strength and courage to commit to a risky maneuver with potential for serious injury.
Many professional skateboarders regard the 900 as a benchmark of skill and technical mastery. The trick’s difficulty is not just in the spin but also in the mental focus and physical conditioning required to execute it safely and consistently.
The 900 continues to be a coveted achievement for vert skaters and remains a highlight in competitions worldwide. Its influence extends beyond skateboarding, inspiring athletes in other extreme sports to attempt similarly complex aerial spins.
Technical Breakdown of the 900
Preparation and Approach
To perform the 900, a skater needs to approach a vert ramp with significant speed to gain the necessary height. The ramp’s curvature helps propel the skater upward, giving them the airtime required for two and a half rotations. Skaters typically use a half-pipe or similar vertical ramp to maximize air time.
Takeoff and Spin
At the lip of the ramp, the skater launches upward while initiating the spin. The trick requires a rapid, controlled rotation of the body and board. The skater tucks their arms and legs to increase rotational speed, similar to how figure skaters spin faster by pulling in their limbs.
Mid-Air Control
During the spin, maintaining balance and orientation is critical. The skater must keep the board aligned with their feet while spinning at high speed. Visual cues are limited, so the trick relies heavily on muscle memory and spatial awareness.
The skater also has to prepare mentally and physically for the landing, gauging when to stop the spin and position the body correctly.
Landing
The landing is the most dangerous part of the trick. The skater must extend their legs and prepare to absorb the impact while ensuring the skateboard is beneath their feet. Any misalignment can cause a fall or loss of control. The 900’s high risk and complexity make successful landings rare and celebrated moments in skateboarding.
Variations and Evolution
Since Tony Hawk’s historic landing, the 900 has evolved with new variations and has been attempted on different equipment beyond skateboards.
Kickflip Body Varial 900
One of the most recent advancements is the kickflip body varial 900, landed by Gui Khury in 2024. This trick combines a kickflip (a flip of the board) with the 900 spin, adding another layer of difficulty by flipping the board while rotating.
Beyond the 900: 1080 and 1260
Skaters have pushed the boundaries with even more rotations. Tom Schaar landed a 1080 (three full rotations) in 2012, and Mitchie Brusco landed a 1260 (three and a half rotations) in 2019, showcasing the ongoing progression of aerial spins in skateboarding.
The 900 in Other Sports
The 900 is not exclusive to skateboarding. BMX riders, snowboarders, skiers, inline skaters, and scooter riders have also performed the trick. BMX rider Mat Hoffman was the first to land a 900 on a bike in 1989, and snowboarders and skiers perform 900-degree spins more frequently due to their equipment being attached to their feet, which aids control.
Conclusion
In summary, the 900 skateboarding trick is a technical marvel involving two and a half mid-air rotations on a skateboard. Its successful execution requires speed, height, precision, and courage. Tony Hawk’s historic landing in 1999 immortalized the trick, which has since evolved with new variations and inspired athletes across multiple sports. Mastering the 900 is a testament to a skateboarder’s skill and dedication, making it a legendary milestone in extreme sports.