Halfpipe

Halfpipe

Halfpipe - USSA Snowboarding Rules

USSA Snowboarding uses five judging criteria in its halfpipe competitions:

1. Amplitude - This represents the volume of execution, and is measured by the competitor's used energy. It is the degree of power and energy the competitor shows in their ride. This category deals with the height of manoeuvres, the speed of the run and the energy the competitor exhibits in an efficient manner.

2. Difficulty - The difficulty of the manoeuvres as well as the way that different maneouvres are put together to form the competitor's unique run. Many variables affect the difficulty, including conditions of the pipe, the angle of the pipe and the height the trick is performed at. The manoeuvres are evaluated as a part of the overall run.

3. Landings - The landings in a run are determined by analysing the competitor's balance, precision, stability and rhythm. Points are deducted from your score for such things as stopping in the halfpipe, falling, dragging hands or flailing arms. Falls that occur are a 25% deduction for each fall. They are only assessed the landing judge though.

4. Style - Style is increased by emphasizing the manoeuvre. This is shown by smooth, powerful riding, by holding the grabs, boning and tweaking. It is decreased by falling, flailing or not enhancing the manoeuvre.

5. Variety - Use a variety of different manoeuvres and the more manoeuvres the better. This includes hand plants, riding fakie, aerials, etc. Show a high degree of variety for the judges.

Each competitor is responsible for knowing the rules used by each organisation. So go and get your hands on an entry form, rulebook and competition guide, read them and start competing!