Alpine Skiing

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ALPINE

Alpine Skiing is a popular sport that takes place on snow, artificial surfaces and more recently, on indoor artificial snow slopes. It can be undertaken as a leisure activity or competitive sport and is suitable for most ages.

History

Skiing evolved as a means of moving around on snow many thousands of years ago. It developed into the sport we know today during the 1900's, with the British traveling in Europe in the 19th century playing a prominent role in developing Alpine racing. Sir Arnold Lunn is credited with the first organized package tours to the Alps and beginning the explosion in recreational Alpine skiing. Skiing in Scotland began with enthusiasts in various areas hiking into the hills and skiing down. The first ski tow in Scotland was installed in Glencoe by members of the Scottish ski club.

Equipment

Skiing requires specialised boots and skis. Equipment may be hired at ski shops, ski centres and artificial slopes. In Scotland alpine skiing can be practised through the five Scottish ski centres clubs, dry slopes and Indoor Snow Domes.

What to Wear

General

A layering system should be utilised for maximum flexibility and warmth. Long underwear should be used particularly early in the season made of micro fibre or wick away material to take perspiration away from the skin. Mid layers should be micro fleece topped with a heavier fleece or other jacket for warmth and finished with a waterproof outer layer made of breathable material such as goretex or similar. Socks should be long enough to cover the shin and be seam free. One pair should be sufficient.

Jacket /Trousers

You will need a good ski jacket and trousers. Both will need a weatherproof outer layer, and you can choose between insulated or non-insulated varieties.

Boots

Buy a well-fitted pair of boots. Fitted boots will give you the kind of comfort you do not get from hired boots.

Bindings

Bindings fix your boots to your skis. A good ski shop, will guide you to the right type - for example, alpine bindings have an automatic release to help keep you safe when you fall a certain way. The shop should set your bindings individually to your requirements.

Skis

Skis come in many different makes and sizes. Renting is advisable to begin with to, but once you are regularly going to the slopes it is great to own your own kit. Modern skis and boards are designed to make learning and progress easy, so good advice is worth a lot.

Goggles

Good for skiing fast or in the snow and rain

Proper sunglasses

Protect your eyes with full UV protection

Helmet

The International Ski Federation strongly recommend the use of helmets for recreational skiing. Helmets are already compulsory in competitions. Always get your helmet fitted properly,

A well fitting hat will be required to protect you from the cold mountain air.

Gloves

Keep your hands warm and dry and provide protection on Snow on artificial surfaces. For snow, insulated leather or man made fabric with a breathable liner are best

Ski poles

For balance and propulsion on flat surfaces. Find your correct pole length by gripping the pole upside down below the basket. If your forearm is at a right angle to your upper arm then the pole is the correct length.

Benefits of Participation

Skiing encourages the development of co-ordination and balance and a wider awareness of our external environment. Competitive skiing also requires good all round fitness.

How to start the sport

You can start the sport by contacting any ski club, artificial slope or ski centre.

Heading for the Snow

Visiting mountains is a fantastic experience which is available in Scotland and in resorts in Europe, USA , New Zealand, Canada and many more resorts throughout the world. Information on resorts throughout Europe can be found at the Snowlife Directory visit the Snowlife directory