A Review of Ski Safety Technology

Abstract

Due to better ski equipment, instruction, slope management and increased safety awareness on the part of the skiing public, ski injuries appear to be declining. Ski equipment is incorporating computerized design procedures along with possible applications of microprocessor controlled hardware. Ski instruction has graduated from the maneuver oriented to skills development methods. Biomechanics researchers have obtained experimental loading data during skiing and are utilizing finite element methods to model the skier. Infrared thermography is being utilized on ski clothing design, environmental safety and rescue. Standards are being developed to assure consistent terminology, compatibility between ski equipment, and safety.