The X Games Aspen, featuring extreme sports like snowboarding, skiing, and snowmobiling, has gained popularity not just as a thrilling competition but also as an exciting betting opportunity. Gambling on the X Games allows fans to combine their love of sports with the potential to win money by predicting the outcomes of events.
If you’re new to betting on the X Games, this guide will cover everything you need to know, including where to place your bets, what types of wagers you can make, and tips for making informed betting decisions.
Can You Gamble on the X Games?
Yes, you can gamble on the X Games Aspen! While betting on traditional sports like football or basketball has been mainstream for years, extreme sports betting is growing in popularity. Several sportsbooks and online betting platforms now offer markets for X Games events.
Because the X Games is an action-packed competition, betting adds another layer of excitement for fans. Whether you’re predicting who will win the Snowboard SuperPipe or guessing the total score in Ski Slopestyle, there are plenty of options to explore.
Where Can You Bet on X Games Aspen?
To gamble on X Games Aspen, you’ll need to use a sportsbook or betting platform that offers markets for extreme sports. Here are some common platforms where you can find X Games betting odds:
1. Online Sportsbooks
Major online sportsbooks often include X Games betting markets during the event. Some platforms to check include:
- DraftKings: Known for its fantasy sports offerings, DraftKings also provides betting odds for major X Games events.
- FanDuel: A popular sportsbook that occasionally features extreme sports betting, including the X Games.
- Bet365: Offers international betting options, including niche sports like snowboarding and freestyle skiing.
2. Local Sportsbooks
If you live in a region where sports betting is legal, local sportsbooks or casinos may offer X Games odds during the competition. Check with your local betting outlets to see if they provide markets for the event.
3. Offshore Betting Platforms
In regions where betting on the X Games isn’t available locally, offshore sportsbooks might provide markets for these events. However, always ensure the platform is reputable, secure, and legal in your area.
4. Fantasy Sports Platforms
Although not technically gambling, fantasy sports platforms like DraftKings and FanDuel often allow you to create fantasy lineups for X Games athletes. This is another way to win money based on athletes’ performances.
Types of Bets You Can Make on X Games Aspen
X Games betting markets typically revolve around individual competitions, overall results, and athlete performances. Here are the most common types of bets available:
1. Outright Winner (Moneyline)
The simplest and most popular type of bet, this involves predicting which athlete will win a specific event. For example, you might bet on Chloe Kim to win the Snowboard SuperPipe or Henrik Harlaut to take gold in Ski Big Air.
2. Podium Finish (Top 3)
In this bet, you wager on an athlete to finish in the top three (gold, silver, or bronze). This is a safer alternative to outright winner bets, as it gives you a higher chance of winning.
3. Head-to-Head Matchups
Some sportsbooks offer bets where you pick one athlete to perform better than another in a specific event. For example:
- Will Mark McMorris score higher than Marcus Kleveland in Slopestyle?
4. Prop Bets
Prop bets focus on specific aspects of an event rather than the overall outcome. Examples of X Games prop bets include:
- The total score of an athlete in Snowboard Big Air.
- Whether an athlete lands a specific trick, such as a triple cork.
- The margin of victory in a particular competition.
5. Futures Bets
Futures bets involve predicting outcomes well in advance of the event. For instance, you might bet months before the X Games on who will win the overall snowboarding gold medal.
6. Over/Under Bets
In an over/under bet, you predict whether the total score for an athlete or event will be above or below a set number. For example:
- Will the winning score in the Snowboard SuperPipe be over or under 95.5?
How to Place a Bet on the X Games Aspen
If you’re ready to start betting on the X Games, here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Choose a Sportsbook or Betting Platform:
Sign up for a reputable sportsbook or betting site that offers X Games markets. - Deposit Funds:
Add money to your account using a secure payment method like a credit card, e-wallet, or cryptocurrency. - Find X Games Odds:
Navigate to the sportsbook’s “Winter Sports” or “X Games” section to view available betting markets. - Select Your Bet:
Choose the type of bet you want to place, such as an outright winner, top three finish, or a prop bet. - Enter Your Wager Amount:
Decide how much money you want to risk and enter the amount in the bet slip. - Confirm Your Bet:
Double-check your selection and confirm the bet. Once placed, you’ll receive a confirmation, and your wager will be live.
Tips for Betting on the X Games Aspen
Betting on the X Games requires knowledge of the events, athletes, and conditions. Here are some tips to help you make smarter wagers:
1. Research the Athletes
Familiarize yourself with the top athletes and their recent performances. Look for trends, such as who has been dominating specific events in previous years.
2. Understand the Events
Each X Games event has its own scoring criteria and dynamics. For example, Snowboard Big Air focuses on the complexity and execution of tricks, while Slopestyle rewards consistency and creativity across multiple features.
3. Check Weather Conditions
Weather can significantly impact performances, especially in outdoor events like Snowboard Slopestyle. Poor visibility or strong winds can level the playing field, creating opportunities for underdog bets.
4. Look for Underdog Value
While big names like Chloe Kim or Shaun White often dominate the headlines, underdogs can sometimes pull off surprising wins. Look for rising stars or athletes with strong momentum heading into the event.
5. Compare Odds Across Platforms
Different sportsbooks may offer slightly different odds for the same event. Comparing odds can help you maximize your potential payout.
6. Start Small
If you’re new to betting on the X Games, start with smaller wagers to minimize risk while you gain experience.
Legal Considerations for X Games Betting
Before you start placing bets, make sure sports betting is legal in your location. Laws regarding sports gambling vary by country and state, so it’s essential to understand the regulations in your area.
If online betting is prohibited where you live, consider using fantasy sports platforms as an alternative. These platforms often operate under different legal frameworks and may be available even in regions where traditional sports betting is restricted.
Popular X Games Events to Bet On
Here’s a quick look at some of the most popular events to bet on at the X Games Aspen:
- Snowboard SuperPipe: Athletes perform high-flying tricks in a halfpipe, with judges scoring based on difficulty, execution, and amplitude.
- Ski Big Air: Skiers launch off a massive ramp to perform single, double, or triple aerial tricks.
- Slopestyle: A creative mix of rails, jumps, and other features, where consistency and style are key.
- Knuckle Huck: A freestyle event emphasizing creativity, where riders use the “knuckle” of the jump to perform unique tricks.
Final Thoughts
Gambling on the X Games Aspen adds another level of excitement to one of the most thrilling sporting events in the world. With a variety of betting options, from outright winners to prop bets, fans can enjoy the action while testing their predictions.
To get started, choose a reputable sportsbook, do your research on the athletes and events, and always bet responsibly. Whether you’re cheering for big names or rooting for underdogs, the X Games Aspen offers plenty of opportunities to turn your passion for extreme sports into potential winnings.
Remember: gambling should be fun and done responsibly. Set a budget, stick to it, and enjoy the thrill of the X Games Aspen 2025!