Competitors descended upon Aspen, CO tonight to train in a brand new pipe. Yes, Aspen has re-upped their old 18-footer for a 22-foot behemoth that is steep, long and fast. In typical X Games fashion, the pipe is longer than any other event. Couple that with the 22-ft. walls and competitors were taking things slowly today, working into their old tricks and higher amplitudes. Here is who and what you should watch for at this year’s X Games Superpipe.

Tanner Hall: The reigning superpipe champ for the last two years is a heavy favorite. Watch for Tanner to unleash a double, huge air and super clean style on his march towards another gold.
Simon Dumont: With bigger airs and all the tricks it takes to win, The Dumont is charging hard, not letting anything stand in his way as he marches towards his third Winter X Gold in halfpipe.
Justin Dorey: If two 2nd place finishes at the Dew Tour are an indicator of the times, everyone should be scared. J-Bone has the amplitude, switch tricks (both ways) and doubles. Watch out.
Peter Olenick: Pete has been working on a new double. If he can get those under control it’ll mesh up nicely with his huge stylie airs and put him up on the podium.
Jossi Wells: Young Jossi dominated the halfpipe last year and expect this year for him to improve on last year’s 5th place at X. He has the style and the tricks and consistency to take it home.
Mike Riddle: The Albertan is only lacking a solid X finish, and his huge switch hits and signature 1080s should help him get there.
Byron Wells: A first time X-athlete, Byron has been turning heads with his massive airs and Wells-esque clean style. Keep Plies on your radar for sure.
AJ Kemppainen: With more style in the flatbottom than most have in the air, AJ is a threat due to his technical tricks and his ability to do them left and right… and make them all look good.
Tucker Perkins: A bit underrated, the kid has the tricks and the amplitude to finish up on a podium. Let’s see if he can hang on and make it happen. Check out William Osborn’s story on Tucker here.
Colby West: Colby James medaled last year and don’t be surprised if he can do it again. CJW goes big, has a creative run and and is focused on that podium.
Xavier Bertoni: Xavier has the switch tricks and style to put it down, but does he have the amplitude? Only time will tell.
Kevin Rolland: Coming off an injury, Kevin was looking good in practice and know that he has what it takes to be on the podium, as he’s a regular on it.
Matt Margetts: Margetts has upped the ante, spinning both ways and looking like a pimp all the way down to the bottom. Watch out for Margetts as this year’s dark horse.
Check back tomorrow for a report from pipe practice and the current state of the X Games.