alpine skier

Athlete who practices alpine skiing; alpine skiers often specialize in one or more of four events.

ski pole

Metal or composite fiber rod with a handle and a basket; the ski pole is used for maintaining balance and for turning.

helmet

Rigid piece of equipment that is designed to protect the head; helmets are mandatory for racing.

ski

Long board with foot bindings that is designed for gliding over a snow-covered surface; it is usually made of wood or composite fibers.

groove

Indentation along the bottom that improves glide and stability on straightaways.

basket

Circular piece attached to the bottom of the ski pole; it prevents the pole from sinking too deeply into the snow.

ski boot

Rigid boot made of plastic or composite materials; the front and back of the ski boot attach to the ski.

bottom

Carefully polished piece that forms the bottom of the ski; a wax suited to snow conditions is applied to the bottom to obtain the best possible glide.

wrist strap

Strap that is attached to the handle and worn around the wrist to prevent the skier from losing a pole when sticking it into the ground.

handle

ski glove

Covering for the hand and wrist that protects them against the cold and bad weather; padded but flexible, it provides a solid grip on the handle.

ski suit

Skintight one-piece garment that reduces air resistance; various protective devices can be added, depending on the event.

ski goggles

Equipment that protects the eyes against the sun and the elements; the filtered lenses optimize depth perception.