Safety Gear and Managing The Cold
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. Additionally, it highlights the importance of staying warm and preventing frostbite, particularly for adults who may be more susceptible to cold weather-related issues.
Gates Hurt
Equipment is used to protect various parts of the body because hitting race gates hurt as explained in the following video.
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 of Mikaela Shiffrin.
Padding
The GS Race Suit has padding stitched into the fabric. Some racers use padded suits for all events including slalom. If race suites are not allowed in an adult race, a padded suit can be worn under your outer wear to protect the body when hitting gates. 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.
To view pictures of Protective Equipment used for racing, click below:
Managing the Cold
Skiing and Ski Racing are winter sports. Sometimes it can be cold — very cold. Adults in particular need to be vigilant about getting too cold as frostbite can damage skin and the circulatory system.
To review strategies racers use to keep warm, click below:
Key Takeaways
- 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.
- 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.
- Staying warm is essential in cold weather skiing, especially for adults who may be more susceptible to cold-related issues like frostbite. Racers use various strategies to keep warm, ensuring they protect their skin and circulatory system from the cold.
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