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The physics of skateboarding
Explore the incredible laws of physics, forces, and materials science that allow skateboarders to defy gravity and land mind-bending tricks.
4 chapters77 assets
by nic · Jul 30, 2026
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Chapter 1
The ollie and the laws of motion
1The secret of the tail pop
2Sliding the front foot for control
3The battle against gravity in flight
4Stomping the landing safely
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Chapter 2
Energy and momentum on vert ramps
1Pumping the transition for speed
2Spinning in three dimensions
3The extreme mega ramp leap
4Staying glued to the wall
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Chapter 3
Street geometry and balance
1Finding the sweet spot
2Sliding on steel and wood
3The mechanics of the kickflip
4Shifting the axis of rotation
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Chapter 4
The materials science of skateboards
1The strength of maple wood
2The polyurethane wheel revolution
3Smooth rolling precision bearings
4Grip tape microscopic teeth
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