The 2014 back-to-back triple podium at Air & Style Beijing might not have had everyone stoked for Austria – but nevertheless, big air returned this weekend to Innsbruck with a new (and overdue in the eyes of many) first time Air & Style winner, Mr Stale Sandbech!

The Norwegian clinched the title as seen above, with a super-clean back 14 triple Indy checking all the technicality boxes – and a flat spin 10 completing his top two runs – adding up to enough to win ahead of Peetu Piiroinen.

Now before you all cry out with hatred – yes, it was a triple that sealed the deal again, but an exceptional one at that, and as you can see the elements were very much against everyone coming into these finals.

Big air returned to Innsbruck with a new (and overdue in the eyes of many) first time Air & Style winner, Mr Stale Sandbech!

Elsewhere too – the trend set by the highly linear triple-cork highlights from Beijing seemed less prevalent – with flat spun 1260s notching up five out of the six next highest scores on the night; and more variety in the qualifying and Knockout rounds keeping interest up.

For the Brits, Billy Morgan came through qualifying rounds in 13th on Friday – opting to play to his strengths and coming out swinging with the only triple variations of the night. Before losing out to a stronger second run in his head-to-head with Yuki Kadono in Saturday’s first round.

Next up is Air + style Los Angeles – where we’ll see skiing in the mix for the first time. Whatever happens, it’ll be sure to stir things right up…

[series]