Recommendations
The following table summarizes the ski equipment USSA and BSSEF recommend for participants in Alpine programs. Required items are indicated with an asterisk (*).
| YSL U8 - U12 | Buddy Werner U10 - U12 | Buddy Werner U14 | Devo U16 - U21 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hard-ear Helmet* | Hard-ear Helmet* | Hard-ear Helmet* | Hard-ear Helmet* |
| Multi-event Jr Race Skis Free Skis | SL Jr Race Skis GS Jr Race Skis Free Skis | SL Race Skis GS Race Skis SG Race Skis Free Skis | SL Race Skis GS Race Skis SG Race Skis DH Race Skis Free Skis |
| Fitted Poles | SL Poles GS Poles | SL Poles GS Poles | SL Poles GS Poles |
| 4-buckle Boot | Jr Race Boot | Jr Race Boot | Race Boot |
| Shin Guards | Shin Guards Back Protector | Shin Guards Back Protector |
BSSEF Alpine program participants must have a full-coverage, hard-ear ski helmet. Make sure the helmet fits correctly and conforms to USSA and/or FIS certification requirements!
A multi-event Junior race ski is less expensive than event-specific skis but still offers the stability and maneuverability required to participate in YSL-level slalom, giant slalom, and kombi events.
A four-buckle boot offers the fit and support your athlete will need for all-mountain skiing and racing. Be careful not to get a boot that is too big or too stiff.
More advanced athletes will need slalom poles that incorporate protective pole guards as well as shin guards.
Used Gear
You don't need us to tell you how quickly kids grow through ski gear. That challenge also gives rise to a thriving market in good, second-hand equipment and clothing. Before you plunk down the big bucks for a brand new speed suit, check out the Montana Ski Racing Classifieds on Facebook.
Retailers
If you need new gear, our sponsors Grizzly Outfitters and Lone Mountain Sports can help you with skis, poles, boots, bindings, and most apparel:
Specialty ski racing items can be purchased from several online retailers, including RaceWerks, Race Place, and Tognar Toolworks.