How To Backside 50-50

The Backside 50-50 is not only a relatively basic jib trick, it is also an essential trick to learn so you can progress on to harder jibs. That's why it is so important to get your Backside 50-50s mega dialled on all features, so you can start adding spins in and out with confidence.

If you're looking to dial in your Frontside 50-50s, make sure you check out its tutorial here.

(Narrating/Riding: Nev Lapwood. Film/Edit: Adison MacDonald. Filmed At: Whistler Blackcomb)

Definition

A Backside 50-50 is where you approach with the box or rail behind you, on your Backside, then slide along the feature.

See how Nev is approaching the feature while it is behind him, that make's it a Backside trick.

It's a little more intimidating than Frontside 50-50s because Ollie-ing on from the Backside is an awkward movement.

Hopping Around

To start learning the 50-50, ride down a gentle slope. Hop from your heel edge and try to get a little bit of horizontal movement to see what it feels like. 

Your First Backside 50-50

Now that you're comfortable jumping Backside, go to the easiest street style feature you can find. Ride into the feature with a little more speed than you normally would and Ollie right over the top. This is not a Backside 50-50 but it is a great progression. 

Trick Tip: This will allow you to get comfortable with the feeling of the feature being behind and underneath you. 

Angle Of Approach

A quick note on the angle of approach. You should approach the feature at about a 20-30 degree angle.  

This will set you up well to lock on to the feature.

Locking On

After the Ollie, you want to straighten your board so it is in line with the rail. Don't be worried if you slip off the opposite side on your first few attempts because that's where your momentum is heading.

To improve, try to get that subtle angle as you connect with the feature to catch and stop your momentum heading off the other side. As you slide, then balance your weight up on top of the feature with a flat base.

The more you practice this, the better you will get at judging how much angle you will need. 

That's the Backside 50-50! Remember, never neglect learning both the Frontside and Backside 50-50 because with both of these tricks dialled, you can quickly take on more advanced jib tricks that require spins in and out. Good luck and happy shredding! 

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Alex McCann 
Snowboard Addiction
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