Helmets: An Edge For Skier Safety

by Jan Moore, Hogadon Ski School, Wyoming, Level I member and accredited children's instructor of PSIA-NRM since 1993

For many years, I was an avid recreational skier,and for the past ten years, I have been a ski instructor. I spent a great deal of time and energy focusing on the quality and design of my skis, boots and bindings. But a helmet? I didn't think of buying (let alone wearing!) a helmet. Then in December, 2000, while attending Fall Festival at Big Sky, I noticed that an instructor (and friend of mine) was at a table looking over some helmets. There were only a few of them and they were being priced at closeout prices.

I asked my instructor friend if he was going to buy one. He responded that they were such a good buy he was seriously considering it. This instructor is a veteran at our ski school , had given me many lessons when I was a recreational skier and was my mentor, setting a professional example for me and influencing my decision to become an instructor. If he thought a helmet ws a good buy, then I should follow his lead. So we both left Pro Night with our helmets. I was pleased with my good buy, never really thinking about the safety factor I had just acquired.

We were the first in our ski school to own helmets and I found myself pleasantly surprised at the comfort level, not to mention the warmth for our local, often windy and cold slopes. I also realized I was setting an example for my students . As seasons passed, more and more skiers started wearing them.

Remember when vehicles first came out with seat belts? This dates me, but I never used mine until one New Year's I resolved to wear mine. I now use mine each time I am in a vehicle. Shouldn't helmets be used in the same attitude?

It was February, 2000 when I decided to take a "fun run" with some friends. It was sunny and beautiful and the run we chose was an easy green slope. I was enjoying my turns when suddenly everything went black for me, I and another skier had not seen each other and collided. Our well-trained ski patrol came to my aid and got me to our local emergency room.

Both of us were wearing helmets and goggles and I was told by the emergency room staff that, had I not been wearing a helmet and goggles, "we would be having a completely different conversation!"

I did suffer a head injury and an orbital fracture, but my helmet most likely saved my life or kept me from having more serious injuries.

Many times I remind myself of how that "impulse" buy may have been one of the most important purchases I have ever made.

Don't underestimate the safety features of your (or your students') equipment, including a helmet! Local ski shops have trained technicians to help you and your students with fit, comfort and price selection. More and more helmets are appearing at Fall Festival's Pro Night that are very well priced and available in a myriad of sizes, styles and features. Just like the seat belts of earlier years, helmets will most likely become an integral part of a skier's clothing and equipment. I know mine is!