A Little Info Regarding Ski Equipment

Skiing is a popular recreational winter activity. It can be dated back to prehistoric Nordic societies who used primitive skis to hunt for food and for transportation in the snow. Modern skiing can be classified into one of two categories. Nordic, which includes cross country and ski jumping and Alpine, also known as downhill skiing. Both versions use the same types of ski equipment and require the same skill levels.

The activity is an extremely popular hobby and sport. It's been a staple at the winter Olympics since 1924 and a beloved winter pastime for even longer. Mountain ski lodges are usually booked year round with customers eager to spend their free time skiing. The lodges are usually a good price since many of them offer vacation deals, with amenities and ski equipment being packaged together.

Because the risk of serious injury or death is so high, wearing the right kind of protection during the activity is important. Ski helmets are specifically designed to both withstand multiple impacts and the cold mountain air. They are required items for professional skiers but are becoming more and more common among athletes of all ages and classes.

To protect their delicate eyes from harsh winds and blinding patches of snow, skiers also have to wear plastic goggles. They make an effective seal around the area that prevents things like water, snow, and dirt particles from getting in. Most feature tinted lenses as well, to neutralize the sun's rays and white snow.

Aside from the protective gear, the sport's most important feature are the skis. Made from carbon fiber components, the items are long, thin, and curve upwards. Constantly being perfected, the items have been around for thousands of years and allow skiers to glide gracefully over several feet of snow and ice.

Ski bindings are special attachments that anchor skis and boots together. Each ski type uses different bindings but most boots are universal. The items do not usually come with skis and must be located and purchased separately. They are designed to be both stable and easily free-able meaning, in a fall or injury, you can free your boots quickly.

Attached to the bindings are the boots. The foot gear are specially designed and fitted for each individual skier. Most feature a hard plastic outer shell and soft liners that provide both warmth and protection. First timers are encouraged to practice walking around in the boots to get used to the stiffness and feel.

To improve their balance and timing, experienced skiers use stocks or ski poles. Over the history of the sport, the poles have been made out of everything from bamboo to steel to aluminum. Modern ones are constructed from carbon fiber composites, much like the skis, and feature easy to grip handles at the top. One is held firmly in each hand and dug into the snow throughout the run to allow for sharper turns and more balanced stopping. To keep them from sinking through the terrain, the poles feature flat baskets near their bottoms as well.