The proper ski gear contributes to a fun and comfortable day on the slopes. Ski gear helps keep skiers safe while it also keeps them warm, a necessity in a sport that is done in frigid weather. Most ski gear falls into the optional category, which comes down to personal preference.
Head Safety
High speeds combined with obstacles such as rocks, trees and other skiers can make skiing a dangerous sport. Helmets prevent head injuries when collisions and crashes occur. According to Ski-injury.com, a government study in 1999 figured that more than 7,000 head injuries on ski slopes could have been prevented or reduced in severity by a helmet. The National Ski Areas Association reported that 48 percent of people on the slopes in the 2008-09 ski season wore helmets.
Wrist Safety
Falling down is part of skiing, and that puts parts of the body at risk. According to Physioroom.com, skiiers naturally try to brace their fall with their hands and that is why somewhere near 100,000 wrist fractures are reported each year worldwide. Protecting wrists is vital in skiing, and wrist guards can do that without much discomfort. Wrist guards are also commonly used in skateboarding.
Warmth
Skiing gear can keep skiers warm on cold days on the mountain. Jackets, scarves, gloves, mittens, beanies and leggings are the most common types of gear used to keep skiers warm. Some skiers choose to go with extras such as thick socks, synthetic hand warmers and body suits. Skiers are extremely unlikely to stay warm on the slopes without bringing gear like jackets.
Control
Poles are not required equipment on ski slopes. They are recommended because they give the skier a sense of control as she goes down the mountain. The Professional Ski Pole Supplier touts poles for safety and for their practical applications as well, calling them "tools in maintaining balance" and also mentioning that they serve as support in helping skiers get up after they fall. Another piece of gear skiers can obtain to help improve their control is a grinding file to sharpen edges. Sharp edges give skiers the ability to make quick movements.
Speed
For skiers looking to go faster, wax is a recommended piece of gear. In order to use the wax, three other pieces of gear are necessary: cleaner, an iron and a scraper. By scraping off old wax and cleaning the skis, then melting new wax onto the planks, a skier can put a layer on his skis that will enhance downhill speed.
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