Adaptive Ski Equipment

Skiing is a fun winter sport, but if you are dealing with physical challenges it may seem impossible. However there is special equipment and centers that offer lessons in how to ski with disabilities. There are programs and equipment available for children and adults that can accommodate those with learning disabilities, sight loss, amputations and partial paralysis. Below is some basic information on what equipment is available.

  1. Significance

    • Just because you have a disability, it does not mean you have to sit on the sidelines. Most sports including skiing, have special equipment and adaptations to allow almost everyone to participate. In fact there are even programs that train individuals with disabilities to compete in special events. Participating in adaptive skiing can help to improve balance, strength and muscle coordination. It can help to build self-esteem and confidence as well.

    Prevention/Solution

    • Adaptive ski equipment is made to support the skier in a standing or seated position. The type of equipment used depends on the user. There are several models of "sit skis" for those that can not stand. If the skier has fairly good balance and has enough arm and leg strength, they can ski in the traditional standing position with modifications to the skis and poles. There is equipment made for leisure skiing and some made for racing and competing. In addition to the skis themselves the poles can have adaptations and are called outriggers, as in the picture above. They are basically a cross between a crutch and a ski pole. At the bottom of the ski pole is an extra piece that looks like a miniature ski. The outriggers can be used to help skiers have better balance and ability to steer.

    Types

    • The sit down ski models come with several options. There are models where the legs are stretched out in front like the one shown at the top of the page. There are others like the one shown here where the feet are more underneath the skier. In part the choice is determined by the comfort of the skier and if they prefer to sit up higher off the ground or they prefer a lower position. Another consideration is if the skier has the ability to sit up straight or needs support to do so. Certain models also have weight and height limits. There are options of having one ski underneath the seat or two, the models with one ski tend to make sharper turns which is better for racing. They all have a handlebar where the rider can control the motion of the chair with their hands.

    Features

    • There are also different options with stand up adaptive ski equipment. The one shown here is for someone that walks with crutches and needs support to stand and steer. Just like with the sit down models the skier controls the motion with the handles they are holding. Stand up models can have one or two skis. Single and two ski options are a good choice for those that have better balance and muscle control. For those that can stand to ski but have balance concerns there are three track and four track models to provide that extra support to stay upright. With three track skiing, the skier stands on one ski and has two outriggers. In four track skiing there are two skis and two outriggers. There are even models where the participant's walker can be placed on skis.

    Considerations

    • Most adaptive ski centers require you to take lessons and be specially outfitted for your equipment. There are many types of both standing and seated options, and the equipment can be tailored to the skier's individual situation and needs. It may take some trial and error to find just the right fit. Most ski centers have highly trained staff who can ski with you at first until you become more familiar with the equipment. In addition, the lessons are needed to help you learn to steer and control your skis as well as master getting on and off the chair lifts, which is hard for even non disabled participants. Visit some of the links below to find adaptive ski centers and retailers of equipment in your area.