How to Help Prevent Common Skiing Injuries in Young Athletes

Skiing, with its blend of speed, agility, and the sheer joy of gliding down snowy slopes, is undeniably a favorite winter sport for many young athletes. However, the thrill of skiing comes with its own set of risks. From minor bruises to more severe injuries like fractures, the slopes can present various challenges for riders of all skill levels. But fear not, with the right approach and preparation, these risks can be significantly minimized.

Understanding the Risks of Skiing

Skiing, while exhilarating, is not without its hazards. The unpredictable nature of the terrain, the speed at which other skiers and snowboarders descend, and the physical demands of the sport contribute to the risks that any skier will face while enjoying the thrill of hitting the slopes. Common injuries include sprained ankles, a bruised bottom, wrist sprains, and, more seriously, head and neck injuries. This is not to scare you or your child away from experiencing the incredible fun that skiing provides, as you can easily take the right steps to help ensure your child’s safety on the slopes.

Why Children are More Susceptible to Injuries

Children’s growing bones, evolving coordination, and limited experience with these unruly outdoor environments can increase their risk of injuries. However, this doesn’t mean they should shy away from skiing – nor does it mean you should panic prior to sending your child off to that birthday party for a group ski lesson. Instead, it emphasizes the need for parents and their instructors on the mountain to guide them carefully, ensuring they’re equipped with the right knowledge, skills, and gear. Chances are your child is going to have a blast and the real pain will come from your wallet when it’s time to buy lift tickets for the whole family every season – but that’s a story for a different day.

Choosing the Right Equipment

The importance of the right gear cannot be overstated with an activity as physically demanding as skiing. A well-fitted helmet, wrist guards, knee pads, tailbone pads, and properly fitted skiing attire are critical in providing the support and protection skiers need to enjoy their days on the slopes. While there are many brands that are guaranteed to be a great place to start, we wanted to offer some of the more popular brands we recommend due to their commitment to skiing and safety:

• Salomon: Salomon is renowned for its high-quality skiing gear, especially helmets and protective padding. Their helmets are designed with advanced technologies to offer maximum protection without compromising comfort. Salomon’s protective gear, including wrist guards and knee pads, is made from durable materials, ensuring your child is well-protected on the slopes.
• POC: POC is another leading brand in skiing safety, known for its innovative and stylish helmets. Their helmets are engineered to provide superior impact absorption and penetration resistance, significantly reducing the risk of head injuries. POC also offers a range of goggles and protective padding, designed to keep young skiers safe and comfortable.
• Helly Hansen: Helly Hansen is a trusted name in skiing apparel and gear. Their protective clothing is not only warm and comfortable but also incorporates essential safety features. Helly Hansen’s gear is designed to provide freedom of movement while ensuring that young skiers are well-protected against the elements and potential impacts.

Regardless of the brand or brands you decide to go with, all we ask is that you ensure it fits your child correctly. Gear that’s too tight or too loose can compromise its protective capabilities and make the overall experience of skiing difficult and sometimes more dangerous. So please take the time to measure your child accurately and consult sizing charts provided by whichever brand or manufacturer you decide to run with.

Preparing Your Child for the Slopes

Physical preparation is just as crucial as the right gear. Encourage exercises that enhance balance, flexibility, and core strength. Activities like yoga or simple at-home exercises can make a big difference. Nutrition and hydration also play a pivotal role. A well-nourished body recovers faster and performs better, so ensure your child is well-fed and hydrated before they hit the slopes.

Teaching Safe Skiing Techniques

When it’s all said and done, the best way to help ensure the safety of your child is to help them learn and practice the proper technique. We highly recommend you consider professional private or group lessons where they can learn the basics of balance, turning, and stopping safely. Instructors are trained professionals who have learned the best ways to easily and clearly communicate the necessary form and functions to allow kids to start enjoying the slopes as quickly and as safely as possible.

You can, however, teach your young skier to be mindful of their surroundings and to ski within their ability level. It’s easy for an adventurous child to hit the slopes with a need for speed, but it’s important to educate them about respecting other skiers’ space, helping them avoid collisions. A strong sense of situational awareness can bode well for all parties hoping to enjoy a long and fun day on the mountain.