Kickflip vs. Heelflip — What's the Difference?
By Urooj Arif & Fiza Rafique — Updated on April 15, 2024
Kickflips involve flipping a skateboard 360° along its axis using the front foot, while heelflips use the heel to flip it similarly.
Difference Between Kickflip and Heelflip
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
A kickflip is executed by an outward kick of the front foot to the skateboard's side, initiating a flip. In contrast, a heelflip requires the skateboarder to use their front foot's heel to kick the board away, starting the flip.
During a kickflip, the board rotates away from the skater’s body. Whereas, during a heelflip, the board spins towards the skater’s body, making the tricks appear mirrored.
Mastery of kickflips is often considered a fundamental skill in skateboarding, emphasizing the trick's popularity and iconic status. On the other hand, heelflips are seen as a stylish alternative, though less common than kickflips.
Kickflips require a precise flick of the toes to achieve the desired flip and landing. Meanwhile, heelflips rely on a strong and well-timed heel kick, demanding different footwork and balance.
In skateboarding culture, kickflips are often the first flipping trick learned after the ollie, serving as a base for more complex maneuvers. Heelflips, on the other hand, are typically learned after mastering the kickflip, introducing variety and challenge.
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Comparison Chart
Initiation of Flip
Front foot kicks outward off the side
Front foot uses heel to kick the board
Direction of Board Spin
Away from the skater’s body
Toward the skater’s body
Popularity and Usage
More common and fundamental
Less common, considered more stylish
Footwork Required
Precision in toe flick
Strong heel kick needed
Typical Learning Sequence
Learned first among flip tricks
Learned after mastering the kickflip
Compare with Definitions
Kickflip
A skateboarding trick where the skateboarder flips the board 360° along its axis by kicking outward.
He landed a clean kickflip down the staircase.
Heelflip
Similar to a kickflip, but the board spins towards the skater.
Switching from kickflips to heelflips can be challenging due to the different spin.
Kickflip
A fundamental flip trick in street and vert skateboarding.
The kickflip is often a key element in competitive skateboarding routines.
Heelflip
Can be the base for other variations and combinations.
He experimented with multiple heelflip variations during his last session.
Kickflip
A trick involving a combination of an ollie and a kick to make the board flip.
Perfecting your kickflip can really elevate your skateboarding skills.
Heelflip
Considered a stylish and technical trick in skateboarding.
He added a heelflip to his routine to showcase his technical skills.
Kickflip
Used as a basis for more complex tricks.
After mastering the kickflip, he started working on double kickflips.
Heelflip
Often learned after the kickflip in the progression of skateboarding tricks.
Once comfortable with kickflips, she began practicing heelflips.
Kickflip
Often a milestone trick for many skateboarders.
He was thrilled to finally pull off a kickflip after weeks of practice.
Heelflip
A skateboarding maneuver where the board is flipped 360° using the heel of the front foot.
Her heelflip caught everyone's attention at the park.
Kickflip
The kickflip is a maneuver in skateboarding in which the rider flips their skateboard 360° along the axis that extends from the nose to the tail of the deck. When the rider is regular footed the board spins counter-clockwise if viewed from the back.
Heelflip
The heelflip (a.k.a. heel or heelie), is an aerial skateboarding trick where the skateboarder kicks out in front of them, flipping board 360 degrees along the board's long axis.
Kickflip
(skateboarding) An ollie where the board is rotated 360 degrees along its axis.
Heelflip
(skateboarding) A flip trick where the skateboarder kicks the board in order to make it flip 360 degrees along its long axis.
Kickflip
To perform a kickflip.
Common Curiosities
Can you do a heelflip if you can’t kickflip?
Yes, some skateboarders may find heelflips easier and learn them before kickflips.
How does a heelflip differ from a kickflip?
In a heelflip, the skateboard flips towards the skater’s body using the heel, unlike the outward kick used in a kickflip.
What are some common mistakes when learning a kickflip?
Common mistakes include not flipping the board fully, not catching the board with the back foot, or losing balance upon landing.
How long does it take to master a heelflip?
The time it takes to master a heelflip can vary, but with consistent practice, many can learn it within a few months.
Are kickflips used in street skateboarding?
Yes, kickflips are a staple trick in both street and vert skateboarding.
What is a kickflip in skateboarding?
A kickflip is a trick where the skateboarder flips the board 360 degrees by kicking it outward.
Are kickflips or heelflips more popular in competitions?
Kickflips are more commonly seen in competitions due to their fundamental nature.
Which is easier to learn, a kickflip or a heelflip?
Generally, kickflips are considered easier and are usually learned before heelflips.
Do professional skateboarders prefer kickflips or heelflips?
Preferences vary, but kickflips are generally more prevalent due to their versatility and ease of integration into routines.
What kind of shoes are best for performing a kickflip?
Skate shoes with a flat, grippy sole are best for performing kickflips and other skateboarding tricks.
What is the first trick to learn before attempting a heelflip?
It is generally recommended to learn an ollie, and often a kickflip, before attempting a heelflip.
Can kickflips be done on any type of skateboard?
Kickflips can be performed on most types of skateboards, though they are easier on lighter boards with concave decks.
What is the key to landing a clean heelflip?
The key to a clean heelflip is a strong flick of the heel and proper foot positioning for a balanced landing.
How do kickflips help in learning more advanced tricks?
Mastering the kickflip provides a foundation for learning more complex tricks, such as varial flips and 360 flips.
What is the most challenging part of executing a heelflip?
The most challenging part is often getting the timing and strength of the heel flick just right for a successful flip and landing.
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Written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
Co-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
