Kim, the 16-year-old sensation who won two gold medals at the Winter Youth Olympics in Lillehammer last year, was not far off a perfect run as she amassed a best total from her two runs of 98.25 points.

The American star will head into Saturday’s (January 21) final as the favourite but will face stiff competition from the other qualified snowboarders.

Cai Xuetong of China was second behind Kim but was some way adrift of the American as she ended with 88.25.

Kim’s compatriot Kelly Clark booked her spot in the final with a third-place finish as her routine was rewarded with 84.75.

Jiayu Liu of China is also through, along with Spaniard Queralt Castellet, who will be the only European representative in the final.

Sochi 2014 gold medallist Podladtchikov delighted the home crowd at the venue with a performance which underlined why he is the reigning Olympic champion.

The Russian-born 28-year-old scored 90.75 for his display, ensuring he reached the final as the top-ranked athlete.

Jake Pates of the United States was second on 88.25, with Zhang Yiwei of China third having achieved a score of 87.25.

Swiss duo Jan Scherrer and Patrick Burgener, as well as Finland’s Markus Malin, have also sealed their place in the final.

They will be joined by American quintet Ben and Gabe Ferguson, Matthew Ladley, Chase Josey as well as Greg Bretz.

The event in Laax continues tomorrow with the slopestyle finals for men and women.