Hey everyone i know its a lot later but thanks for cheering me on at champs it was so much fun!! And I cant wait for the end of the year party at our house!! FAQ: Equipment
What equipment / clothing do I need?
This is only the basics - coaches will provide the best advice...
Skis
J5 racers can do perfectly well in my experience with a single pair of decent junior race skis. One pair can do fine for both SL and GS events. As they progress and the more aggressive racers will want event-specific skis.
J4 and above racers typically have one SL and one GS pair.
Boots
These are very important (probably obvious to all skiers - racers or not). I would recommend going to a shop that specializes in racing and understands custom boot fitting - it need not be as expensive as it sounds. However, realistically, I've never gotten more than 2 years out of a pair of kids boots!
Poles
Initially any old poles will probably do, but when racers start to get more aggressive at Slalom and to hit the gates, hand protectors will be necessary. Giant Slalom poles are lighter and some have a bend in them to use in a tuck.
Helmet
Mandatory in all races, and from my perspective, for training also. Get a good one with full protection.
One-piece race suits
Most racers have these to minimize wind resistence and shave seconds off their times. They are expensive new, but thankfully last for many years (as long as you get one that allows stretch for growth)
Ski pants
Get ski pants with a full side zipper - capable of being removed while in ski boots in the starting line.
Training shorts
Racers spend a lot of time on the hill, and these items sound strange at first, but are really handy for keeping the thighs and butt warm on the lift but are really easy to take off when its time to take your run.
Skis
J5 racers can do perfectly well in my experience with a single pair of decent junior race skis. One pair can do fine for both SL and GS events. As they progress and the more aggressive racers will want event-specific skis.
J4 and above racers typically have one SL and one GS pair.
Boots
These are very important (probably obvious to all skiers - racers or not). I would recommend going to a shop that specializes in racing and understands custom boot fitting - it need not be as expensive as it sounds. However, realistically, I've never gotten more than 2 years out of a pair of kids boots!
Poles
Initially any old poles will probably do, but when racers start to get more aggressive at Slalom and to hit the gates, hand protectors will be necessary. Giant Slalom poles are lighter and some have a bend in them to use in a tuck.
Helmet
Mandatory in all races, and from my perspective, for training also. Get a good one with full protection.
One-piece race suits
Most racers have these to minimize wind resistence and shave seconds off their times. They are expensive new, but thankfully last for many years (as long as you get one that allows stretch for growth)
Ski pants
Get ski pants with a full side zipper - capable of being removed while in ski boots in the starting line.
Training shorts
Racers spend a lot of time on the hill, and these items sound strange at first, but are really handy for keeping the thighs and butt warm on the lift but are really easy to take off when its time to take your run.
FIS rules for equipment
When racers reach the J2 level, these become important since minimum ski lengths and turn radii must be adhered to.
Here is the current season (2007/2008) FIS equipment rules
Note the upcoming rule changes at the bottom for the 2008/2009 season that affect the minimum radius for GS.
Here is the current season (2007/2008) FIS equipment rules
Note the upcoming rule changes at the bottom for the 2008/2009 season that affect the minimum radius for GS.