Hi, I recently moved apartment and started skateboarding to work. I have a nickel board, so more for cruising than tricks.
My question is: what's the best way to slow down and stop on sidewalks?
I've watched several YouTube videos about different techniques for slowing down and stopping, but they tended to assume an environment with more room and smooth ground. Where I ride, it's a sidewalk with cracks and leaves and changing terrain. It is also somewhat hilly so I really need a way to slow down on sustained (not steep though) downhills.
One of the best techniques I found was called pumping, basically the opposite of pushing. This works well on any terrain and on skinny sidewalks. However, it's really hard on my ankles, and I actually made my right ankle swollen. So I figured I need a better way.
I don't particularly want to use techniques that scrape my shoes. And I'm not sure powerslides are the best idea on the uneven terrain.
Surely there's something better than just dismounting? Do I have to ride on the road to do powerslides?
I would greatly appreciate any and all advice!! I'm quite new to this so anything is helpful
Been skating for years, and I usually hang my back toe off and drag it to slow down. If you get a beefier set of shoes to skate in, like Half Cabs, they won't wear out so quickly. Otherwise you'll have to strengthen your ankles if they hurt from slowing down by stomping one foot off. Powerslides are fun, but a bit obnoxious to use for every time you need to slow down.
Thank you for the advice. I'll check out half cabs. Looks like I'll probably just have to get beefier shoes