How to Land a 360 on a Wakesurf Board: Step-by-Step Guide
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Landing a 360 is one of those milestone tricks in wakesurfing. It’s stylish, technical, and super rewarding when you finally ride one out. But if you’re spinning out, nosediving, or just can’t get the full rotation, don’t sweat it. Most people skip the small stuff that makes the 360 actually work.
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown that helps you build the right habits and land it clean.
Step 1: Master the Boardslide First
Before going for a full spin, get super comfortable doing a boardslide, turning the board 90 degrees and holding that position in control. This teaches you how to break your fins free, shift your weight properly, and use your hand as a pivot.
Drill it: Let go of the rope, slide the board sideways, and hold that position for a second or two before straightening out.
Why it matters: It’s the best way to learn balance and control during rotation. If you can’t control a boardslide, a full 360 is just a chaotic spin.
Step 2: Dial in the Set-Up
Generate speed by getting 1 to 2 good pumps. Flatten your board out right before the spin. This loads your momentum and puts you in the perfect spot for rotation. Make sure to attempt the 360 on the top of the wave not the bottom. This helps prevent the board from nosediving.
Pro tip: Don’t try to spin from a dead stop. Momentum helps greatly
Step 3: Use Your Pivot Hand
Your pivot hand is your secret weapon. Drop it lightly onto the wave as you begin the spin this adds stability and acts like a pivot point. It helps you keep your chest over the board and stay centered during the rotation.
Think of it as a third point of balance while you spin.
Step 4: Keep Your Shoulders and Hips in Sync
This is where a lot of people get stuck. They try to spin with just their shoulders or twist only from the hips, and that throws off the whole motion.
The key is to keep your shoulders and hips aligned and rotating together. Your whole upper and lower body should move as one smooth unit. If your shoulders lead and your hips lag behind, you’ll get stuck mid-rotation or fall out of alignment.
Think: spin from your core, not just your arms or legs. Look where you want to go, and let the rest of your body follow in sync.
Step 5: Stay Low and Centered
Bend your knees, stay low, and keep your weight centered over the board. If you lean too far back, you’ll spin out. Too far forward, and you’ll nose-dive. Your chest should stay balanced over your feet, with your eyes spotting the boat as you finish the spin.
Step 6: Ride Away Like a Boss
As you come around, absorb the landing with soft knees and lock back into your stance. If you’ve stayed balanced and kept your body in sync, this part will feel natural.
Final Thoughts
The 360 is all about flow and control. If you break it down and build up the muscle memory, boardslide first, Pump and generate speed properly, rotate as one, the full spin becomes way more manageable.
Stick with it, take it slow, and don’t force the spin. The cleaner it feels, the easier it becomes to land consistently.
Need feedback? Send us a clip — we’ll help you break it down and get you spinning clean.