A 6-count pattern where the follower passes on the leader's right side, usually traveling under the joined hands — hence the common alternative name underarm pass.
The shape
- 1–2: leader steps back, raising the joined left hand to create an arch; follower walks forward
- 3&4: follower passes under the arch and turns right to face back down the slot
- 5&6: anchor
Common notes
- The arch is an invitation, not a crank: most instruction emphasizes that the leader's raised hand stays quiet and the follower turns themselves.
- Danced without the raised arm (a simple pass on the right side), the same slot geometry is often just called a side pass or outside pass depending on the scene.
Video examples (2)
full video
Brian Barakauskas (leader)
Beginner tutorial on the first four patterns — this move among them.
The First 4 Basics of WCS - Start Here!
Watch on YouTubeadded by archivist
full video
Kyle Redd (leader) &Sarah Vann Drake (follower)
Social-style champion Jack & Jill prelim — clean, social-floor-realistic patterns.
West Coast Swing | Kyle Redd + Sarah Vann Drake | Champion JJ Prelim - Desert City Swing
Watch on YouTubeadded by archivist
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Discussion
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