Snowboard Big Air is one of the most explosive and technical events in winter sports. From the X Games to the Winter Olympics, riders launch off massive jumps and spin multiple rotations before landing smoothly. But one question fans often ask is:
How fast do snowboarders go in Big Air?
Average Big Air Speeds
In professional competitions, snowboarders typically reach:
- 30 to 45 mph (48–72 km/h) at takeoff
- Some setups can approach 50 mph depending on ramp design
The exact speed depends on several factors:
- The length and steepness of the inrun
- Snow conditions
- Wind resistance
- Rider weight and style
- Event specifications (Olympics vs. X Games vs. World Cup)
Elite-level events are carefully engineered so riders hit the jump at a precise speed that allows them to maximize height without overshooting the landing.
How Big Are Big Air Jumps?
Big Air jumps are enormous. At major competitions:
- Riders clear 60 to 90 feet horizontally
- They can reach 20 to 40+ feet in vertical height
- Airtime can exceed 2–3 seconds
To complete advanced tricks like 1440s, 1620s, and even 1800s, snowboarders need both height and hang time — which is why speed at takeoff is critical.
Why Speed Matters in Snowboard Big Air
Speed determines three key things:
1. Distance Cleared
Too little speed means the rider “knuckles” (lands short on the flat part of the landing).
Too much speed risks overshooting the landing transition.
2. Airtime
More speed → more lift off the lip → more time to spin.
3. Trick Difficulty
Modern Big Air competitions are pushing progression:
- Double corks
- Triple corks
- Quad cork attempts
Without sufficient approach speed, these tricks are impossible to complete safely.
How Big Air Compares to Other Snowboarding Events
Here’s how Big Air stacks up:
| Event | Typical Speed |
|---|---|
| Big Air | 30–45 mph |
| Slopestyle | 25–40 mph |
| Halfpipe | 20–35 mph |
| Downhill Ski Racing (for comparison) | 70–90+ mph |
Big Air is fast — but it’s not downhill racing fast. The focus is precision and amplitude rather than raw top speed.
The Physics Behind Big Air Speed
Big Air speed converts horizontal momentum into vertical lift when the rider hits the jump’s lip. The curved transition of the ramp redirects speed upward, allowing snowboarders to:
- Gain maximum height
- Maintain rotational control
- Spot their landing
A well-designed jump ensures the trajectory aligns perfectly with the landing slope, reducing impact forces and increasing safety.
Final Answer: How Fast Do Snowboarders Go in Big Air?
Professional snowboarders typically reach 30–45 mph at takeoff, with some ramps allowing speeds near 50 mph.
That speed, combined with precise jump engineering and elite athletic ability, is what makes today’s multi-rotation tricks possible.
As Big Air progression continues, we may see even faster inruns and more complex rotations — pushing the limits of what’s physically possible on a snowboard.