Half-Pipe

skateboarding · extreme sports · gravity

Shaped like a tube. A half-pipe looks exactly like a swimming pool or skateboard ramp that's been cut lengthwise down the middle, creating two curved walls on opposite sides. Athletes ride back and forth, building speed to launch high into the air.

Works on any surface. Half-pipes aren't just for skate parks. Snowboarders and skiers use them on snowy mountains, while skateboarding and BMX half-pipes can be made from wood, concrete, or metal in parks.

All about momentum. The curved shape lets riders gain speed as they roll down one side, then use that speed to climb the other side and fly into the air. The steeper the walls, the higher and more dramatic the tricks can be.

Born from surfing. Half-pipes were invented by skateboarders in the 1970s who wanted to recreate the feeling of riding waves on concrete. Now the design is used for almost every action sport that involves riding and jumping.