If you're learning how to skateboard and you're ready to level up your transition game, the spine transfer is a stylish and technical trick that deserves your attention. Whether you're skating at your local skatepark or progressing toward competition-level skills, learning how to spine transfer can open up a whole new world of flow and creativity.
In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about spine transfers—from what they are, to how to approach them, and pro tips for making your first transfer a success.
Before attempting to air a spine transfer, watch this video for the easiest way to spine transfer on a skateboard:
What Is a Spine Transfer in Skateboarding?
A spine is a ramp feature that consists of two quarter pipes placed back-to-back, forming a vertical peak. A spine transfer involves riding up one quarter pipe, popping over the spine, and landing smoothly on the transition of the other side.
It’s essentially a ramp-to-ramp transfer without a deck in between—so timing, speed, and body control are key.
What You Should Know Before Trying a Spine Transfer
Before attempting a spine transfer, make sure you’ve mastered the following skills:
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Dropping in confidently
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Pumping and maintaining speed on transitions
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Ollieing out of a ramp or flyout
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Rock-to-fakie or rock-and-roll (to get used to the coping)
If you’re still learning how to skateboard, focus on building solid fundamentals on quarter pipes before tackling spines.
How to Spine Transfer on a Skateboard: Step-by-Step
Here’s how to do a spine transfer safely and effectively:
1. Approach with Controlled Speed
Roll toward the spine with enough speed to carry you over, but not so fast that you lose control. Too slow, and you’ll hang up. Too fast, and you’ll overshoot the landing.
2. Keep Your Shoulders Aligned
Keep your shoulders square to your board and eyes focused on where you want to land. This helps maintain your balance and control in the air.
3. Pop and Level Out
As your front wheels reach the coping, pop your tail as if doing an ollie. Try to level out in the air while keeping your knees bent to absorb impact on the landing.
4. Spot Your Landing
Look for the transition on the other side. Align your board with the curve of the ramp, and prepare to land smoothly on your back wheels first, then front.
5. Bend Your Knees on Impact
Absorb the landing by bending your knees. This keeps your center of gravity low and reduces the impact on your joints and board.
Pro Tips for Learning Spine Transfers
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Start Small: Try on a mini ramp spine before moving to larger transitions.
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Wear Pads: Falls can be harsh. Helmet, knee pads, and elbow pads are highly recommended.
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Practice Flyouts: Get comfortable jumping out of ramps before trying to land on another.
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Film Yourself: Reviewing footage can help you spot mistakes and improve faster.
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Ride with Others: Learning how to skateboard in a group helps you pick up tips, build confidence, and stay motivated.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Hesitating at the coping: Commit to your movement. Hesitation leads to bails.
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Leaning back too much: This can cause you to over-rotate and miss your landing.
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Not popping enough: Without the right pop, you’ll clip your tail on the coping.
Final Thoughts: Keep Progressing
Learning how to skateboard is all about progression—and the spine transfer is a trick that proves you’re moving into the intermediate and advanced levels. Take your time, build confidence, and don't be afraid to fall (safely). Every slam is a step closer to stomping it clean.
Ready to conquer more tricks? Check out our guide on how to skateboard transitions and keep shredding!