Once a skier reaches Olympic caliber, every aspect of her equipment must enhance her speed, safety and efficiency, while conforming to the rules and standards set by the International Ski Federation. Even minor infractions of the federation's rules might result in disqualification from the race, public humiliation, and in some cases, the end of a promising career.
Clothing is Equipment
The average recreational skier dresses for warmth, but a ski racer must dress for warmth and speed. Because wind drag is speed's mortal enemy, aerodynamics is a primary concern in ski-racing suits. The word "aerodynamic" combines the Greek word "aerios," meaning air, with "dynamis," meaning force. Running against the wind illustrates the adverse effects of wind drag on speed. Running into the wind with multiple layers of loose clothing creates even more wind drag. The one-piece, form-fitting ski racing suit reduces wind drag and enhances speed. Spyder, the ski clothing manufacturer, experimented with different types of fabrics, and reported that slick materials, without seems, provided the best resistance against wind drag.
Skis
As ski designs gain sophistication, the International Ski Federation changes its rules about ski length. At the time of publication, the minimum length for Downhill events is 210 cm for women and 215 for men. For the Super G, women must use a ski that measures and least 200 cm, and men must use a ski measuring at least 205 cm. Giant slalom requires at least 180 cm for women and 185 cm for men, and slalom skis must measure at least 155 cm for women and 165 cm for men. The lengths are based on how many turns are required throughout the race. The Downhill uses minimal turning and, therefore, requires the longest skis. In contrast, the short, tight turns that characterize slalom skiing require a shorter ski. All racing skis are significantly stiffer than recreational skis.
Racing Boots
Ski racing boots are stiffer and narrower than traditional recreational ski boots. A flex rating indicates the boots' level of stiffness. While beginner, intermediate and advanced skiers choose ski boots with flex ratings ranging from 50 to 130, racing boot flex ratings start at 140. In order to eliminate even the smallest bit of added weight, these boots do not have "comfort" features like a the ski/walk control level. Because a racer does not spend the day skiing different types of terrain, racing boots do not usually have a forward flex control lever. The boot fitter and racing coach determine the appropriate forward lean for a specific race and set the boot accordingly.
Ski Racing Poles
Ski racing poles bear some resemblance to their recreational counterparts, but have some significant differences. Ski racing poles provide the most obvious example. The racer's tuck position resembles the squat position, with one small difference -- instead of holding a flat back, a racer the rounds his lower back to create a wind tunnel, improving his aerodynamics. You might notice a curve in his poles and worry that the poor guy broke his poles somewhere along the course. There's no need to worry. The curve in the poles serves the same purpose as his rounded lower back.They create a wind tunnel, which prevents wind drag from slowing him down.
Member Comments