How to Skateboard: Learning to Air Out Like a Pro

Learning how to skateboard is a thrilling journey that starts with pushing on pavement and can lead all the way to flying through the air. One of the coolest milestones in skateboarding progression is learning how to air out of a bowl or ramp. In this guide, we’ll break down what airing out is, how to work up to it, and tips to stay safe and confident.

Whether you’re a beginner searching for tips on how to skateboard or an intermediate rider looking to level up, this post is your go-to guide.

What Is an Air Out?

An air out is when a skateboarder rides up a ramp or out of a bowl and catches air above the coping or lip. It's a key vert move and a staple in skatepark bowl skating.

Unlike aerial tricks off stair sets or gaps, airing out is all about using momentum and transition to boost into the air. 

How to Skateboard Into an Air Out: Step-by-Step

1. Master the Basics First

Before you even think about catching air, you should be comfortable with:

• Riding and carving in a bowl or on a mini ramp

• Kickturns and pumping for speed
  If you’re still learning how to skateboard on flat ground, spend more time getting comfortable before progressing to transitions.

2. Learn to Pump for Speed

Pumping is the art of generating speed without pushing. When riding in a bowl, push down with your legs as you descend and rise up as you come up the wall. Proper pumping will give you the speed needed to reach the coping and eventually go airborne.

3. Practice Lip Tricks First

Before going airborne, get used to riding up to the coping and turning back in. Practice:

• Axle stalls

• Rock to fakies

• Kickturns at the lip
  This will build your comfort level near the top of the ramp.

4. Bend Your Knees and Commit

As you hit the top of the transition:

• Stay low and bend your knees

• Let your board follow the curve of the ramp naturally upward
  

Let your body rise with the board, keeping your tail pointed upwards to clear the coping. Focus on landing with your knees bent to absorb the impact.

Safety Tips for Airing Out

• Always wear a helmet, and pads are highly recommended for bowl and vert skating.

• Start small. Try airing out of bank ramps or small quarters before hitting deep bowls or vert walls.

• Skate with friends. They can spot you, give feedback, and keep you stoked.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Going too slow: You won’t clear the coping and risk getting hung up.

• Not committing: Half-bailing leads to the worst slams. If you're going for it, fully commit to the motion and landing.

Final Thoughts: Keep Progressing

Learning how to skateboard is a lifelong progression, and airing out is a rite of passage for any transition skater. Stay patient, keep practicing, and celebrate the small wins along the way.

If you’re still learning how to skateboard in general, check out our beginner guides on stance, pushing, and turning to build a strong foundation.