Spin Turn

A Spin Turn (or spin turn), originally hyphenated as Spin-Turn, is a driving mechanic from the Mario Kart series, introduced in Mario Kart 64. When the accelerate and brake buttons are pressed while a kart is at a standstill, the kart can pivot around, creating very precise maneuvers. While it is not a common tactic to use while racing, in nonlinear arenas such as those used in Battle Mode, it is used to quickly change directions and aim items better.

In Mario Kart: Double Dash!!, a Spin Turn is performed by holding, , and and turning while at a standstill.

Super Mario Kart is the only mainline Mario Kart title without the ability to spin-turn. Additionally, exclusively in Mario Kart Wii, a Mini-Turbo can be activated by using Spin Turns.

Mario Kart 64

 * Instruction manual: "Use Spin-Turns Wisely! To change direction on narrow roads, or when you want to direct a Shell at an opponent, turn and press the A and B Buttons simultaneously, to do a Spin-Turn."

Mario Kart: Super Circuit

 * Instruction manual: "Master the Spin Turn! When you need to change direction in an instant, the Spin Turn is your best bet. Just hold the A and B Buttons and crank the steering wheel!"