ESSENTIAL GEAR FOR YOUNG RACERS
The following is a list for parents and racers new to the program to help determine the necessary items to consider.You can also have a look to our gear packing list for traveling racers (PDF file).
Skis – beginning racers will need a good quality combi ski or slalom ski. Although some racers in the first year of the K program will have both Slalom and GS skis, these are not necessary. Speak to the coach to determine the level of your racer for appropriate length and type of ski(s). There are also a number of knowledgeable parents who can assist with this. E.g. Alpine Director: Erich Unterberger. As the racer progresses it may be necessary for them to maintain both GS and Slalom skis to maintain their competitive edge. Please discuss with the coach.
Poles – a good quality pair of straight poles are necessary, recreational poles will be more susceptible to breakage as the racer progresses into ‘hitting’ the gates. Although some racers like to have ‘bent’ poles for GS and straight poles for Slalom, this is not necessary.
Pole Guards – a pair of slalom guards will be required. These should be of a type that is easy remove/install if the racer is maintaining one pair of poles.
Boots - Racer comfort is all about the boots. It is recommended boots are correctly fitted and are appropriate for skier ability, size and weight. Boots have range of flexibility that should be considered when fitted. This should be discussed with a knowledgeable boot-fitter.
Helmet – skiers will not be permitted to participate if they do not have an approved helmet. The helmet must have the ability (holes) to mount a chin guard and should have a high enough cut in the rear to ensure ample neck extension during tucks.
Chin Guard – chin guards are necessary for slalom racing. Please ensure it mounts appropriately to the helmet.
Goggles – a good quality pair of anti-fog goggles. Goggles that are overly scratched can be more of a hazard than help.
Gloves (2 pr) – gloves or mitts should fit appropriately and be water-proof or water-resistant. Again, quality gloves contribute greatly to skier comfort. Although some racers have race specific gloves, these are not necessary. Racers should pack a second pair to every event to ensure dry gloves are available.
Jacket – a good quality, warm ski jacket is necessary. It is not necessary to purchase race jackets with zip – off arms etc.
Ski Pants – during races and training racers are required to strip down to their race-suits. Although not necessary, zip away ski pants work best. These are the type that has zippers down the side of the legs from the waist to the cuff.
Training shorts – a nice to have, but not necessary item.
Armour – used for upper body protection during slalom. Racers will not require this until they reach a more advanced level. Speak to the coach.
Thermal underwear – what is there to say, get what’s comfortable and warm. Some prefer fleece, some prefer wool. Cotton will tend to remain wet and may not provide the necessary warmth. Top(s) – the best warmth and flexibility is to layer clothing. Try not to wear items which are too bulky and that hold moisture. Those cotton hoody tops flying out the top and bottom of the back of a ski jacket really aren’t helping aerodynamics or warmth.
Socks (2 pr) – do not double up your socks in your boots, this may actually contribute to colder feet. A good quality pair of ski socks of medium thickness work best. Again, a spare pair is a great addition to help keep feet warm.
Wax kit – your wax kit should contain the following items: tool-box, wax, sharpening stone, file guide, file, fibre tex pad, scraper, iron, clamps, brush, and base filler. Please see Wax Kit Essential sheet for details on a wax kit.
Race suit – each racer will require a ski race suit. These are expensive items so be sure to check around with club members to see what the older racers are growing out of.