BLOG

U.S World Cup racers have some pretty strong sentiments regarding the FIS changes to ski dimensions in the World Cup regulations.  At the start of the 2012-2013 season, FIS regulations will require racers to be on 40 meter radius ski, up from 27 meters.  FIS claims that the changes in ski length and dimensions is attempt to improve safety.  Many World Cup racers, lincluding Ted Ligety and Steve Nyman are opposed to the changes, they feel that these changes will regress innovation and move ski technique and technology backwards and as for safety, the 40 meter radius increases the consequences not lessen them, particularly where younger skiers are concerned who do not have the body mass to maneuver such a ski.  “

Ted Ligety express a lot of concern for younger skiers entering the circuit and a loss of potential athletes before they even make it to the circuit.  The last time skis have had such a long radius was in the 1980s.  After trying some of the prototype skis out, racers found them difficult to ski in terms of making a clean arc that modern GS skiing is known for.  The FIS will review the rule changes later this year in answer to racers’ concerns.