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How to Build a Snowboard Halfpipe

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(2 Ratings)

Snowboarding is fast becoming a form of artwork with all of the tricks mirrored from skateboarding. Boarding on a halfpipe provides an exhilarating experience, but it's not always possible to get to one. Although it may take time and a little knowledge, use this guide to build a halfpipe for snowboarding at home.

Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Find a spot to build the halfpipe where the land works with the design like an area with a natural hill. A spot with a natural hill is the best because the hill can be used for one side of the ramp and the other side can be built up with snow.

  2. Step 2

    Design the snowboard halfpipe. The ramps should be about 6 feet high and 8 feet wide and the landing pad on each ramp should be at least 4 feet wide. Of course this will depend on the terrain you are working with, the amount of snow you have and the skill level of the snowboarders.

  3. Step 3

    Truck snow in to build up the ramps. Bringing snow in takes less snow and work than digging it out to create the contours. Make sure to pack the snow tightly and make the walls of the ramps as close to 90 degrees vertically as possible.

  4. Step 4

    Get the right curve when you build your snowboard halfpipe. A curve that's too tight will prevent the snowboard from flexing and make the boarder be off balance or fall when they try to land. If the curve is too gentle, the boarder won't be able to get enough speed to get to the top and can't catch any air. The best bet is to make the curve match the lower half of a circle with a radius of 8 to 9 feet, regardless of how high the ramp is.

  5. Step 5

    Build up and maintain the surface, which will ultimately consist of snow and ice. Too much snow and the halfpipe will shift or break up when riders are on, but solid ice is too slippery. It's best to layer a foot of snow, compact it down and mist it with water. The water will help the next layer stick to the previous one. Continue to repeat the layers until the halfpipe is the correct thickness, normally about 2 layers.

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