Safety Gear

K. Liensberger/Image by UPI/Alamy

Overview

  • Safety Gear is essential in ski racing to safeguard various body parts from the impact of race gates.

  • This module provides insights into the types of gear needed for different events, including helmets, forearm guards, padding, gloves, and suits.

Gates Hurt

  • Equipment is used to protect various parts of the body because hitting race gates hurt as explained in the following video.

Video by Alpine Canada

Types of Safety Gear

  • Forearm Guards are recommended and a hard shell helmet is required when skiing speed events including Giant Slalom.

  • A back brace and padding for legs and arms are recommended for all events.

  • A helmet open at the ears is allowed for Slalom.

  • Guards for protecting the face, hands and shins are required for racing slalom as shown in the following picture.

K. Liensberger/UPI/Alamy/Graphics by ARM

  • The GS Race Suit has padding stitched into the fabric. Some racers use padded suits for all events including slalom.

  • A padded vest and shorts worn under your outer layer of clothing is also effective protection.

  • Padded racing gloves or mitts will protect your hands and knuckles especially when skiing Giant Slalom.

Key Takeaways

  1. Safety Gear is crucial in ski racing to safeguard various body parts from the impact of race gates. This includes items such as helmets, forearm guards, padding, gloves, and suits.

  2. The type of Safety Gear needed may vary depending on the specific event, with different requirements for slalom, Giant Slalom, and speed events. Padded suits and padded accessories can provide added protection.

Suggested Learning Modules

Go to the Cold Weather module to view tips on how to manage the cold.

Important Message: Skiing and ski racing involve inherent risks. It’s essential to ski responsibly and stay within your skill level and personal comfort limits.