Bob's Trick Tips - skateboard trick archive -- 540 Shove-It

540 Shove-It

This week's trick is performed by the great Bill Robertson. Bill used to be a pro freestyler for Walker Skateboards, and he had his own model. He's done many, many demos and contests over the years. He's also a really great guy.

To me, the 540 Shove-It is a "cut-off" move. Its a tough trick, and I think the ability to do this move consistantly is the mark of a pretty good freestyle skater. At this point, I'll just let Bill take over...

This is a great move for all flatland tricksters. I do this trick on a 32 by 8 Renaissance Skateboard with Tracker Trucks and 58 mm wheels. I use a 1/8 inch riser too. Be sure you can do 360 Shove Its, and you can preview them on Bob's Trick Tips too. This is a description of a 540 Shove It that is thrown behind your heels (as opposed to off of your toes). Since I am a regular foot, the rotation is clockwise and would be just the opposite for a goofy footer.

Check out the video clip here.


Turn your board backwards, so that when you finish the trick, you will land normal. Go at a good rate of speed.	Hook your back foot just behind the back truck, this will allow you to throw the board. Keep your front foot slightly above the front truck to all for balance within the Shove It.

Bend low, rise up and throw your back foot in order to rotate the board clockwise.	Lift your feet high and jump slightly to your heel side. This is the most critical part of making the trick. It allows you to catch up to the board in line with the position of the spin.
	Keep your feet up high, and look for the board as it comes around. You really have to catch it with speed in order to have the board stay under you as you move along. For the landing, try to set your feet over the trucks, this will allow for a solid landing from which you can shift your feet to prepare for your next trick. For added style and difficulty, you can catch this trick in a manual (or wheelie) and show total control.