Evidence-based injury prevention programmes for youth competitive alpine skiers are widely absent. The aims of this controlled 12-month experimental study were to introduce a novel injury prevention programme targeted to the injury patterns of youth skiers, called ISPAInt, and to compare the differences in injury occurrence between an intervention group (IG) additionally performing the ISPAInt programme and an independent, historical control group (CG) following their regular training routines. None of the skiers of the CG were part of the IG and vice versa. The study was directly conducted within the real-world youth development structures of skiers competing at the under 16 years (U16) level in Switzerland. Seventy-one skiers (aged 14.4 ± 0.3 years) assigned to the IG were compared to 58 age- and gender-matched controls. The IG was offered the ISPAInt programme with the recommendation to perform it at least once per week. Skiers’ adherence to this recommendation was surveyed but not enforced. Injuries were recorded using the Oslo Sports Trauma Research Centre Questionnaire. Primary outcomes were the absolute injury rates (number of injuries/100 athletes per season) and epidemiological incidence proportion (number of injured athletes/100 athletes per season). The secondary outcome was the average 2-weekly prevalence of traumatic knee, knee overuse, and lower back overuse injuries. There were lower absolute rates of all traumatic injuries [rate/risk difference, RD: −57.1 (−98.1, −16.0); rate/risk ratio, RR: 0.665 (0.485, 0.884)] and overuse injuries [RD: −35.9 (−71.0, −0.7); RR: 0.699 (0.493, 0.989)] in the IG than in the CG. Likewise, the epidemiological incidence proportion for all overuse injuries was smaller in the IG [RD: −28.4 (−44.8, −12.0); RR: 0.598 (0.435, 0.822)], while the proportion of skiers suffering from traumatic injuries did not significantly differ between the groups. Notably, the IG particularity differed from the CG in the average 2-weekly prevalence of knee trauma, knee overuse, and lower back overuse complaints, three of the major injury-related hot spots in youth skiers. Based on these promising results, the ISPAInt programme may have great potential to prevent injuries in youth competitive alpine skiers, and the underlying exercises should be considered complementary training content at the U16 level.

In February 2024, the number of ski and snowboarding injuries recorded at ski resorts in Japan amounted to approximately 3.34 thousand. This was the second-highest number during the surveyed period.

Here are a few use cases for this project:

1. Safety Monitoring: This model could be used in ski resorts for real-time monitoring of skiers, enabling authorities to enforce helmet rules and reduce the risk of injury.

2. Sport Event Analysis: During professional ski competitions, this model might provide real-time analysis, identifying which competitors are wearing helmets and potentially categorizing them based on the type or color of their helmets.

3. Development of Smart Cameras: Integrating this model into smart cameras could enable them to automatically identify and focus on skiers with helmets, useful for specific filming or photography needs.

4. Insurance Investigations: Insurance companies might use this model to enhance their investigation process for winter sport accidents and determine if claimants were following safety protocols like wearing a helmet.

5. AI Ski Coaching: This model can be incorporated into an AI-based ski coaching system in which the model identifies if the trainee is wearing a helmet or not, providing real-time feedback, enhancing safety, and providing an all-around learning experience.

Polish people going on a skiing vacation abroad in 2019 were most likely to have an accident in Italy (50 percent) or Austria (30 percent).

The statistic displays the total number of injuries in the Ski World Cup reported between the 2006 and the 2019 season, by discipline. In the given time frame of 13 seasons, the International Ski Federation (FIS) recorded a total of 1,083 reported injuries in the Ski World Cup of which 422 occurred in the discipline of alpine skiing.

Workplace safety and injury data for Courtyard New Orleans Covington/Mandeville

Workplace safety and injury data for Courtyard Houston Intercontinental Airport

Workplace safety and injury data for Baymont Inn & Suites

In epidemiological studies related to winter sports, especially alpine skiing, an unresolved methodological challenge is the quantification of actual on-snow activity exposure. Such information would be relevant for reporting meaningful measures of injury incidence, which refers to the number of new injuries that occur in a given population and time period. Accordingly, accurate determination of the denominator, i.e., actual “activity exposure time”, is critical for injury surveillance and reporting. In this perspective article, we explore the question of whether wearable sensors in combination with mHealth applications are suitable tools to accurately quantify the periods in a ski day when the skier is physically skiing and not resting or using a mechanical means of transport. As a first proof of concept, we present exemplary data from a youth competitive alpine skier who wore his smartphone with embedded sensors on his body on several ski days during one winter season. We compared these data to self-reported estimates of ski exposure, as used in athletes' training diaries. In summary, quantifying on-snow activity exposure in alpine skiing using sensor data from smartphones is technically feasible. For example, the sensors could be used to track ski training sessions, estimate the actual time spent skiing, and even quantify the number of runs and turns made as long as the smartphone is worn. Such data could be very useful in determining actual exposure time in the context of injury surveillance and could prove valuable for effective stress management and injury prevention in athletes.

Among Poles going on skiing holidays abroad, 70 percent of accidents happened to skiers and 30 percent to snowboarders.

In February 2024, 60.5 percent of injuries recorded at ski resorts in Japan were suffered by men, while injuries incurred by women accounted for roughly 39.7 percent. One reason for this might be the higher number of men who participate in skiing and snowboarding.

Workplace safety and injury data for Courtyard by Marriott Knoxville West Bearden

Ski Gloves and Mittens Market Outlook

The global ski gloves and mittens market size is expected to grow from USD 1.2 billion in 2023 to USD 2.0 billion by 2032, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.5%. This significant growth can be attributed to the increasing popularity of winter sports and outdoor activities, rising disposable incomes, and the growing awareness about the importance of protective gear during skiing and snowboarding activities.

One of the primary growth factors of the ski gloves and mittens market is the surge in winter sports activities globally. With the increasing number of ski resorts and the rising popularity of skiing and snowboarding among both amateurs and professionals, the demand for high-quality protective gear has escalated. Ski gloves and mittens are essential for providing warmth and protection against injuries, thereby enhancing the overall skiing experience. Additionally, advancements in material technology have led to the development of more durable and efficient products, further propelling market growth.

Another significant factor contributing to market growth is the rising disposable income of consumers, particularly in developing nations. As people have more spending power, they are more likely to invest in premium quality outdoor gear. The trend of adventure tourism and the inclination towards experiencing exotic and thrilling activities, including skiing, have also resulted in higher expenditure on ski equipment, including gloves and mittens. Furthermore, the increasing focus on health and fitness has encouraged more individuals to participate in physical activities, including winter sports, thereby driving demand.

The growing awareness about the importance of protective gear in preventing injuries is also a crucial driver for the ski gloves and mittens market. Manufacturers are increasingly emphasizing the safety aspects of their products, incorporating features such as better insulation, waterproof materials, and enhanced grip. The promotion of these safety features through various marketing channels has played a significant role in educating consumers about the benefits of using high-quality ski gloves and mittens, contributing to market expansion.

Regionally, North America and Europe remain the dominant markets for ski gloves and mittens, owing to the presence of numerous ski resorts and a high number of skiing enthusiasts. However, the Asia Pacific region is expected to witness the highest growth rate during the forecast period. The increasing popularity of winter sports in countries like China, Japan, and South Korea, coupled with favorable government initiatives to promote tourism, is driving the demand for ski equipment in this region. Additionally, the entry of international brands and the expansion of local manufacturers are contributing to market growth in the Asia Pacific.

In recent years, the introduction of Sport Touchscreen Gloves has revolutionized the ski gloves and mittens market. These gloves are designed to offer not only warmth and protection but also the convenience of using touchscreen devices without having to remove them. This feature is particularly appealing to tech-savvy consumers who want to capture their skiing experiences on smartphones or use GPS navigation apps while on the slopes. The integration of conductive materials in the fingertips allows for seamless interaction with touchscreens, making these gloves a popular choice among younger skiers and snowboarders who value connectivity and functionality.

Product Type Analysis

The ski gloves and mittens market is primarily segmented by product type into gloves and mittens. Ski gloves are designed to provide individual finger movement, which is essential for activities requiring dexterity, such as adjusting ski gear and handling poles. These gloves often come with features like reinforced palms, wrist straps, and touch screen compatibility, making them highly functional and popular among avid skiers. The demand for ski gloves continues to rise, driven by their versatility and the increasing number of recreational and professional skiers.

Mittens, on the other hand, are designed to keep the fingers together, providing superior warmth compared to gloves. This makes them particularly suitable for extremely cold conditions. Mittens are often favored by snowboarders and those engaged in less gear-intensive winter activities. The market for mittens is growing steadily, sup

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Ski Equipment Market Size 2025-2029

The ski equipment market size is forecast to increase by USD 605.4 million, at a CAGR of 5.1% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing participation rate in skiing and other snow sports. This trend is driven by the rising popularity of winter activities and the growing number of ski resorts worldwide. A notable development in the market is the rising trend of freeride skiing, which involves skiing off-piste and in backcountry areas. This trend is influencing the design and production of ski equipment, with manufacturers focusing on creating lighter, more versatile, and durable equipment to cater to this segment. However, the high cost of ski equipment poses a challenge for market growth.
The expensive nature of skiing equipment, including skis, boots, bindings, and protective gear, can deter potential customers. Additionally, the need for frequent upgrades due to technological advancements and changing trends can further increase the overall cost. To overcome this challenge, manufacturers and retailers can explore strategies such as offering financing options, rental services, or bundled packages to make ski equipment more affordable for consumers. By addressing this issue, companies can tap into the vast potential of the growing skiing and snow sports market.

What will be the Size of the Ski Equipment Market during the forecast period?

Explore in-depth regional segment analysis with market size data - historical 2019-2023 and forecasts 2025-2029 - in the full report.
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The market continues to evolve, with dynamic market trends shaping various sectors. Ski sidecut, lift tickets, ski length, and snow safety are key elements driving innovation. Ski sidecut, for instance, has evolved from traditional radius designs to more versatile shapes, catering to different skiing styles. Lift tickets have transitioned to season passes, offering skiers and snowboarders greater value and flexibility. Ski length and snow conditions are interconnected, with advancements in materials and technology enabling skis of various lengths to perform optimally in diverse snow conditions. Snow safety remains a priority, with ongoing developments in avalanche safety gear, such as beacons, probes, and shovels, ensuring the safety of backcountry enthusiasts.

Alpine skiing, whether it's alpine racing or freeride, benefits from advancements in equipment. Base layers, mid layers, and outerwear provide improved insulation and moisture management, enhancing overall comfort and performance. Backcountry gear, including avalanche safety equipment and touring skis, enables skiers to explore off-piste terrain. Ski racing, from giant slalom to super G, relies on precise equipment tuning, such as edge sharpening and ski waxing, to optimize performance. Ski bindings and boots have also evolved, with advancements in binding technology and boot fitting ensuring a more comfortable and secure connection between skier and equipment. Snowboarding, with its various styles like freestyle and powder, has seen innovations in snowboard stance, flex rating, and shape.

Twin tip snowboards and directional snowboards cater to different riding styles, while snowboard bindings have become more adjustable and versatile. Skiing and snowboarding injuries are a concern, with ongoing research focusing on injury prevention and equipment design. Ski patrol teams and ski schools play a crucial role in ensuring safety on the slopes, with terrain park features and trail grooming contributing to a safer and more enjoyable experience for skiers and snowboarders. Weather forecasting and artificial snow technology have revolutionized ski resorts, enabling them to offer consistent skiing conditions throughout the season. Overall, the market continues to evolve, with ongoing innovations and advancements shaping the industry and enhancing the skiing and snowboarding experience.

How is this Ski Equipment Industry segmented?

The ski equipment industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Product

  Skis and poles
  Ski boots
  Ski bindings
  Ski protective gear


Distribution Channel

  Offline
  Online


End-user

  Men
  Women
  Kids
  Professionals
  Beginners


Application

  Alpine skiing
  Downhill skiing
  Cross-country skiing
  Ski touring


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada


  Europe

    Austria
    France
    Germany
    Italy
    The Netherlands


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan


  Rest of World (ROW)

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By Product Insights

The skis and poles segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

Skis and poles are essential equipment for

Previous research has shown that friction between ski and snow can vary substantially due to changes in snow conditions. The variation of friction affects the speed a freestyle skier or snowboarder (athlete) reaches during the in-run of a jump. Athletes risk severe injuries if their take-off speed is not within the right margin to land in the “sweet spot” zone. To reduce the risk of injury, snow park designers and competition managers need to calculate the speed athletes reach during the in-run. However, despite multiple attempts over the last decades, to date no model can predict ski-snow friction from snow physical quantities. Hence, simulations of in-run speeds suffer from insufficient validity. For the first time, this work combines kinematic athlete data and comprehensive snow surface measurements to infer the coefficient of friction of freestyle skis and snowboards across a wide range of snow conditions. Athletes’ point mass kinematics were recorded at more than 200 straight gliding runs with differential global navigation satellite systems. The subjects’ air drag and lift were deployed from wind tunnel measurements. Along with the kinematic data and data from wind measurements, a mechanical model of the athlete was established to solve the equation of motion for the coefficient of friction between ski/snowboard and snow. The friction coefficients for ski (snowboard) ranged from 0.023 ± 0.006 (0.026 ± 0.008) to 0.139 ± 0.018 (0.143 ± 0.017) and could be explained well (Radj2 = 0.77) from the measured snow parameters using a multivariate statistical model. Our results provide a new quantitative tool for practitioners to predict the friction of skis and snowboard on snow of various conditions, which aims to increase athletes’ safety in slopestyle and big air.

Workplace safety and injury data for Beaver Creek Resort

During the 2023/2024 season, the number of fatal accidents recorded at ski resorts in Japan amounted to seven, three skiers and four snowboarders. This was an increase compared to the previous year.

Skier Bindings Sales Market Outlook

The global skier bindings sales market size was estimated at USD 1.2 billion in 2023, and with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.5%, it is expected to reach approximately USD 1.8 billion by 2032. The growth in this market can be attributed to increasing participation in skiing activities globally, alongside a rising number of ski resorts and advancements in skier binding technologies. The demand for skier bindings is driven by an increased emphasis on safety and performance, which has led to continuous innovation and enhancement in this sector.

A key growth factor propelling the skier bindings sales market is the increasing popularity of skiing as both a recreational and professional sport. The tourism industry has seen significant growth, with more people traveling to ski destinations, thus boosting the demand for skier bindings. This trend is particularly prominent in regions with well-developed ski infrastructure, such as Europe and North America. Additionally, the development of artificial ski slopes in urban areas has facilitated the growth of skiing activities, contributing to the market expansion for skier bindings.

Technological advancements also play a crucial role in the growth of the skier bindings sales market. Manufacturers are consistently innovating to enhance the safety, comfort, and performance of skier bindings. Features such as adjustable release mechanisms, lightweight materials, and enhanced durability are attracting more consumers. Furthermore, the integration of smart technologies, such as binding systems that can communicate with ski boots and provide real-time feedback, is expected to offer new opportunities in this market.

Another significant growth factor is the increasing awareness about skiing safety. Skiing is an activity associated with high risks of injuries, making safety equipment like skier bindings essential. There is a growing emphasis on using high-quality bindings that minimize the risk of injuries, which is driving demand. Ski schools and professional skiing organizations are also advocating for the use of advanced bindings, further boosting the market growth. The rise of e-commerce platforms has also made it easier for consumers to access a wide range of products, thus fostering market growth.

Regionally, the skier bindings market is witnessing varying growth patterns. Europe continues to dominate the market due to the presence of numerous ski resorts and a strong skiing culture. North America is also a significant market, driven by the popularity of skiing in countries like the United States and Canada. The Asia Pacific region, particularly countries like China and Japan, is emerging as a lucrative market due to increasing disposable incomes and investments in winter sports infrastructure. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are relatively smaller markets but are experiencing gradual growth as skiing gains popularity in these regions.

Product Type Analysis

The skier bindings market can be segmented based on product type into Alpine bindings, Touring bindings, Telemark bindings, and others. Alpine bindings hold a substantial share of the market, driven by their widespread use in recreational and professional skiing. These bindings offer a balance of safety and performance, making them a preferred choice among skiers. The robustness and reliability of Alpine bindings have contributed significantly to their dominance in the market.

Touring bindings are gaining popularity, especially among backcountry skiers. These bindings are designed to provide flexibility for uphill climbing and stability for downhill skiing. The increasing interest in backcountry and off-piste skiing is driving the demand for touring bindings. Manufacturers are focusing on developing lightweight and durable touring bindings to cater to this growing segment of skiers. Moreover, the advent of hybrid bindings that combine features of Alpine and touring bindings is expected to further boost this segment.

Telemark bindings, known for their free-heel design, cater to a niche market of skiers who prefer Telemark skiing. This segment, although smaller compared to Alpine and touring bindings, has a dedicated consumer base. The unique skiing technique and the performance benefits offered by Telemark bindings are key factors contributing to their demand. Manufacturers are innovating to enhance the performance and safety of Telemark bindings, attracting more enthusiasts to this skiing style.

The "Others" catego

The global lateral ski balance support pole market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing participation in skiing and snowboarding, a rising demand for enhanced safety and stability equipment, and a growing awareness of injury prevention among skiers of all skill levels. The market is segmented by application (recreation and competition) and type (aluminum, carbon fiber, and others), with carbon fiber poles commanding a premium due to their lightweight yet strong properties. While aluminum poles dominate the market due to their affordability, the increasing demand for high-performance equipment is driving the growth of carbon fiber segments. The recreational segment currently holds the largest market share, fueled by the rising popularity of skiing as a leisure activity. However, the competitive segment is projected to experience faster growth due to the increasing professionalization of skiing and the consequent demand for specialized equipment offering superior balance and control. Geographical distribution reveals strong demand from North America and Europe, representing established skiing markets with high disposable incomes and developed skiing infrastructure. However, emerging markets in Asia-Pacific are showing significant growth potential, driven by increasing participation in winter sports and rising middle-class incomes. Factors such as unpredictable weather patterns and the relatively high cost of specialized equipment may present challenges to market growth, but overall, the market outlook remains positive, with substantial growth projected over the forecast period. The key players in the lateral ski balance support pole market are leveraging innovation in materials and design to enhance product performance and appeal to a wider consumer base. Strategic partnerships and collaborations are also becoming increasingly important as companies seek to expand their market reach and product portfolios. Marketing strategies focused on highlighting safety and performance benefits are essential for continued market penetration. As the market matures, the emphasis will shift towards developing technologically advanced poles that incorporate features such as improved ergonomics, integrated sensors, and personalized fitting systems to cater to diverse skier needs. The increasing focus on sustainability and eco-friendly materials is also expected to influence product development and manufacturing processes within the industry. The forecast period of 2025-2033 is poised for significant growth, driven by technological advancements, a wider consumer base, and the global popularity of skiing as a recreational and competitive sport.