halfpipes

Halfpipes are a type of ramp structure used in skateboarding, snowboarding, BMX, and inline skating. They consist of two concave ramps facing each other, joined at the bottom by a flat or slightly curved deck, forming a U-shaped channel. The lips at the top are capped with coping to allow slides and grinds in some contexts. Riders gain speed across the lips and perform aerial tricks as they transition from one side to the other.

Design and materials: The width, height, and radius of the transitions vary widely. Permanent halfpipes are commonly built from poured concrete or plywood faced with a durable surface; concrete is favored for outdoor parks due to durability, while plywood or fibreglass reinforced plastic are common in portable or indoor setups. The coping is typically metal, such as steel.

Usage: Skateboarders and BMX riders use them to perform airs, grinds, and flip tricks. In snow sports, halfpipes are used for riding along the curved walls to perform aerial maneuvers. Some facilities feature both halfpipes and bowls adjacent to each other.

Construction and safety: Proper construction requires smooth transitions to reduce catching edges. Maintenance includes repairing cracks, repainting, re-surfacing, and adjusting coping as needed. Riders should wear protective gear; water drainage is important for outdoor ramps.

History: The modern halfpipe evolved from street and bowl ramps in the mid-to-late 20th century, with later decades bringing increased development and formalized competition in skateboarding and snowboarding.