Trickline vs Slackline (Differences and How To Walk On Each)

A trickline vs slackline: What’s the difference between the two and how do you walk on each one?

A trickline is a sturdier slackline with elastic-style webbing that acts more like a trampoline and is used for walking and dynamic tricks like jumping. A regular slackline has low stretch webbing that is set up to be more slack and is designed for walking and static tricks.

Let’s go into more detail regarding how to use a trickline vs slackline and how to master each!

What is a trickline?

A trickline is generally used for regular slacklining but also for doing dynamic tricks with names like Buddha bounce, Nasty Chest, Space Shuttle, Crow, Front Lever, Hula Hoop and more.

To make the tricks possible, a trickline is made of a durable and more elastic webbing that when set up correctly is similar to what you would expect from a trampoline to allow for various jumps, bounces and other tricks.

With a trickline, the key is the tension. Follow manufacturer instructions when setting up your trickline to ensure there is enough tension to allow for the tricks you have planned.

What is a slackline?

A slackline is a long stretchy line made from nylon or polyester that offers some elasticity when set up properly. It’s typically 1″ to 2″ in width and is set up between two immovable objects typically two trees, tight enough to hold the weight of the user and so that the line doesn’t touch the ground when standing on it.

A regular slackline is one that is used for regular slacklining and can be a good choice for a kid, beginner, intermediate or even advanced user who has no interest in doing tricks.

Check out my article called 13 Important Slacklining Questions Answered (Q&A) to learn more.

Some basic static tricks may be accomplished on a regular slickline but remember that the tension and elasticity of a trickline is what makes the tricks possible which is why there is a separate trickline for tricklining activities.

How to walk a trickline

You can walk a trickline pretty much the same way you’d walk a regular slackline.

But when it comes to tricks, that’s where the difference lies: It depends on what sort of trick(s) you’re planning on doing.

Trickline tricks are generally grouped into several categories:

• Jumps
• Bounces
• Walks
• Mounts
• Flips
• Static tricks
• Linking
• Combos
• Other

Tricks can be further grouped into Beginner, Advanced, Expert and Extreme tricks. The most difficult Expert tricks include ones like the Squirrel backflip and Double backflip dismount.

Below is a short video from GIBBON Slacklines showing not only how to set up one of their slacklines but some of the tricks you can do on one too.

How to walk a slackline

Walking a slackline involves climbing on the slackline using your dominant foot first and then maintaining your balance with both feet on the line. It’s not as easy as it sounds and can take a fair bit of practice.

One thing you’ll first notice is when you put your dominant foot on the slackline, the line will often start to sway and you may find yourself falling off quickly and repeatedly. This is not unusual and can take a fair bit of practice before you are able to actually stay on the slackline and begin to walk on it.

A 2″ slackline is often a better choice for a beginner rather than a thinner 1″ model but it depends on your personal preference.

Check out my article on Beginner Tips For Slacklining to learn more.

Trickline vs slackline specifications

	Trickline	Slackline
Use	Walking and dynamic tricks such as the butt bounce, chest bounce, Buddha bounce, Nasty Chest and more. More advanced tricks include flips, combos and more daring jumps and bounces.	Used for walking and basic static tricks such as balancing with your feet sideways, jump mount, walking backwards, turning around on the slackline, jumping and more.
Width	Generally 2″	1″ to 2″
Length	Up to 100′ depending on the model.	Up to 100′ depending on the model. 25′ – 30′ is a good length for a beginner.
Webbing	Elastic webbing that acts similar to a trampoline to better allow for for dynamic tricks. The line shouldn’t touch the ground when you are on it.	Low stretch webbing that is designed to have some slackness. The line shouldn’t touch the ground when you are on it.
Ratchet	A trickline kit will normally have 1-2 ratchets that offer greater tension than a regular ratchet for better tricks.	A basic kit will normally have 1 regular ratchet.
Skill level	Intermediate to advanced adults.	Kids as well as adults who are at the beginner, intermediate or advanced level.

Final thoughts

A basic slackline is 1″ to 2″ in width and is less elastic than a trickline. It can be used by a wide variety of slackliners from kids to adults who are beginners, intermediate or advanced slackliners. It might be all you need if you’re just looking at basic slacklining or wish to try some basic tricks.

A trickline is 2″ in width and is more elastic than a regular slackline. It tends to act more like a trampoline so you can get more bounce to do more advanced tricks. The key to setting up a trickline is the tension which gives you the ability to bounce higher. If you’re looking at doing more advanced tricks, a trickline is a better choice than a regular slackline.