Equipment

The following table summarizes the ski equipment U.S. Ski & Snowboard and BSSEF recommend for participants in Alpine programs. Required items are indicated with an asterisk (*).

U8-U10U12U14U16-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 PolesSL Poles
GS Poles		SL Poles
GS Poles		SL Poles
GS Poles
4-buckle BootJr Race BootJr Race BootRace Boot
Shin GuardsShin Guards
Back Protector		Shin Guards
Back Protector
Masters Equipment Information
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.
Slalom Pole and Shin Guards
More advanced athletes will need slalom poles that incorporate pole guards as well as shin guards and other protective gear.

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.

Montana Ski Racing Classifieds Facebook Group

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:

Lone Mountain Sports is a dedicated alpine ski shop located directly at the base of Big Sky’s slopes in the Arrowhead Mall.
Grizzly Outfitters
Whether you are skiing or snowboarding at Big Sky Resort, Grizzly Outfitters is the choice for ski & snowboard rental, gear, clothing, and information.

Regulations

The only new U.S. Ski & Snowboard equipment regulations for the 2019-20 season pertain to U12 and younger equipment and ski preparation:

  • U12 – two pairs (SL, GS), length ski/size appropriate.
  • U10 – one pair (multi-event), length ski/size appropriate.
  • No waxing solution can be applied at a competition venue.
  • The use of ski preparation benches is not allowed at a competition venue.
USA_Equipment_Matrix_19-20

FIS Equipment Regulations