The first thought of building a pipe needs to center on the decision of the halfpipe being above ground or shaped as a permanent foundation in the ground. Here is a breakdown on the advantages and disadvantages of both systems:

Above Ground Halfpipe Medium level of thought and planning Medium level of cost to build and maintain Easy to move if site needs change Every year you start over Takes substantial amount of snow to construct Orientation to sun is a medium factor Spectator viewing adequate at best Maintenance less difficult

Permanent Foundation Pipe High level of planning High level of initial cost Not easy to move Consistent base to start Saves on amount of snow needed Orientation to sun a high factor Spectator viewing is enhanced Maintenance more difficult

The permanent foundation pipe's main attractions are the consistent base in which to build the halfpipe and the fact that it takes less snow to construct. The maintenance issues, however, are extremely high and variable. This means the level of commitment and cost precludes many areas from building permanent foundations. As it stands, the best pipes are built above ground because they allow for the continued maintenance without hitting dirt or grass that is found in permanent structures.

The physical site for an above ground halfpipe needs to be at least 60 meters wide and 150 meters long. This will guarantee enough room for the halfpipe channel, 10 meters of roll-out deck on each wall and a start and finish area. I also guarantees that the snowcats have enough turning radius to move snow around when building the pipe.

The slope of the halfpipe is very important. The perfect pitch for a halfpipe is 18(deg) and should be measured with an inclinometer for verification. This pitch needs to be kept throughout the construction of the halfpipe and the final product (the inner slope of the channel) should be consistent from top to bottom.

Public access, including the technical issues of lifts and electricity, are very important for the overall use of the pipe. The pipe should not be placed away from the public. Rather, it should be close to facilities like ski lifts for access, built at the base of the area for easy transportation and viewing and close to facilities for material moving, electrical connections for music, and competition results. The halfpipe should be a showcase venue and should have access for all riders to enjoy.

Foundation # 2: The Snow