12/27/2023 0 Comments Water ski race gearThese skis should be skied at a length that is eye level. Typical turn radius of a junior GS ski would be from 14-18 meters, again depending on length of ski.ĭual event skis fall between SL and GS in terms of side cut. These skis typically have less side cut than SL skis, but their shape is still fairly pronounced. The better the skier, the longer ski he/she can handle. As a guideline, GS skis should be of a length that is from mid-forehead to 2-3 inches above the racer’s head. Giant Slalom, or GS skis, are skied longer than SL skis. As a general, rule appropriately sized SL skis will be of a length that is between the chin and eyes of the racer. The easiest way to determine the length of SL skis is to stand the skis on their tails. Typical turn radius of a junior SL ski would be around 9-12 meters, with shorter skis having a smaller turn radius. In the SL discipline, gates are closer together necessitating tighter turns. Skis with a big side cut tend to have a shorter turn radius meaning the ski can make sharper turns. The side cut refers to how much difference there when comparing the width of the tip to the waist (section under the foot) and tail. Slalom skis are relatively short skis with a fairly big “side cut”. These skis will perform much better than a youth recreational ski. These skis are specifically designed to be of the correct flex, torsion & rigidity appropriate for alpine racing. Racers should have skis that are specifically designated as Junior race skis. For entry level racers ages 7-9, there are dual event skis that will perform well for both Slalom and Giant Slalom. Older racers, U16 and beyond may also have Super G and downhill skis. Typically racers have a pair of skis for Slalom and a pair for Giant Slalom. The boot fitter may also recommend custom foot beds for the boots which have the effect of greatly improving the fit in many cases. If a racer is slightly “knock kneed” or “bow legged” this will need to be compensated for through canting to ensure the racer properly controls the ski. This is to ensure that the boot and therefore the ski is absolutely flat when the skier is standing. In addition to the size, proper boot fitting may also include checking the skier stance in the boot to see if “canting” is called for. It is recommended that boots be purchased at a location that stocks junior race equipment has staff qualified as “boot fitters”. Manufacturers of junior race boots include Fischer, Lange, Nordica, Salomon, Dalbello, Tecnica, Rossignol, and Atomic. In general, U8/U10/12/U14 racers will want to have boots in the 60- 80 range of flex index with the stronger, heavier U16s in stiffer boots of 90-100. Most junior boots have flex indices between 60 and 100. Junior race boots also come in a variety of “flex indexes” which related to the stiffness of the boot. Most junior skiers usually fit best in low to medium volume boots. For example, Lange boots traditionally have been recognized as a low-medium volume boot. Certain manufacturers have certain fit characteristics. This designation is aimed at accommodating the width and mass of the skier foot. In addition to length, ski boots tend to be designed to be low, medium or high volume fit. Ski boots should be sized so that the fit is snug. It is important that racers have ski boots that are of the proper design and fit for racing. The following guideline will get you started in gear selection although the race team coaches are the best authority if you have questions about equipment. Ski shops and online sources catering to ski racers can be found on the PASEF website. Junior race equipment is typically available from major name brand manufacturers and is usually available through specialty ski shops rather than large chains that offer recreational gear. This separates the equipment from youth recreational ski equipment in terms of design, performance and durability. Most of the equipment used by youth racers is designated as “junior race”. Equipment includes boots, skis, bindings, poles, and body protection. Your coaches are extremely knowledgeable resources, but you should always check the USSA website.Įach discipline of ski racing has equipment with different characteristics. Visit the USSA website, regularly to check on ski length limitations, helmet specifications and boot restrictions. USSA has very strict guidelines for ski equipment based on age. Depending on the age of the racer, different length of skis and additional protection equipment are required.Įquipment depends on your age level. Information about Equipment for Athletes and ParentsĪll athletes are responsible for their own equipment.
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