alpine skier![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Athlete who practices alpine skiing; alpine skiers often specialize in one or more of four events.
ski pole ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Metal or composite fiber rod with a handle and a basket; the ski pole is used for maintaining balance and for turning.
helmet ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Rigid piece of equipment that is designed to protect the head; helmets are mandatory for racing.
ski ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
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 ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Indentation along the bottom that improves glide and stability on straightaways.
basket ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Circular piece attached to the bottom of the ski pole; it prevents the pole from sinking too deeply into the snow.
ski boot ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Rigid boot made of plastic or composite materials; the front and back of the ski boot attach to the ski.
bottom ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
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 ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
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 ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
ski glove ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
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 ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Skintight one-piece garment that reduces air resistance; various protective devices can be added, depending on the event.
ski goggles ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Equipment that protects the eyes against the sun and the elements; the filtered lenses optimize depth perception.