How to Better Your Board Offs With Fin-To-Handle Tic Tac

So, you're nailing your board-offs from the handle. The next step is learning how to grab the fin and tic-tac the board into your hand. This move adds flow and control to your riding while setting you up for cleaner, more advanced board-offs. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you progress in your board-offs:

Step 1: Set Up Like a Normal Board-Off

Go into this trick just like you would with a standard handle grab board-off. Keep your kite steady overhead, get a solid pop, and prepare to bring the board off your feet. The setup should feel identical — what changes is where you grab.

Step 2: Grip the Fin Correctly

As you reach down, go for the fin instead of the handle. The key is a firm, stable grip: not too close to the base, not too far at the tip. Push your thumb into the side of the board for leverage. This lets you control the board without it slipping or wobbling mid-air.

Step 3: Throw Into a Controlled Rotation

With the fin in hand, push the board into a steady spin. Aim to keep it rotating about 45 degrees off your body — not directly in front, not way out to the side. This angle gives you the best chance to spot the handle and time your catch.

Step 4: Tic-Tac to the Handle

As the board comes around, release the fin and grab the handle. The tic-tac motion should feel natural if you’ve practiced handle board-offs before. Don’t overthink the timing — you can catch it at any point in the spin.

Step 5: Re-Strap and Stick the Landing

Once you’ve got the handle, line up your foot straps, slide back in, and steer the kite down for a clean landing. The smoother you keep the rotation, the easier this part becomes.

Tip: It might feel awkward practicing on the beach, but once you take it to the air, everything clicks faster. Focus on grip and rotation — those are the two details that make this trick work.

The Bottom Line

The fin-to-handle tic-tac is all about grip and timing. If you keep the board stable with a strong fin hold and set it into a clean rotation, the catch and re-strap will fall into place. Take your time, practice the motion, and you’ll add another stylish board-off variation to your sessions.

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