Speed Skiing is an individual sport where competitors ski downhill, in a straight line, with the intention of reaching the bottom of the hill in the quickest amount of time.

Speed skiing is a sport consisting of participants skiing downhill in a straight line as quickly as possible and is one of the fastest non-motorized sports on land. The current world record for speed skiing is held by Simone Origone who reached a speed of 251.4 km/h, or 156 mph. Speed skiers regularly reach speeds upwards of 200 km/h, or 125 mph. Speed skiing is practiced on steep, specially designed courses one kilometer long.

The goal of speed skiing is to ski down a specially designed course in the shortest amount of time and to reach the highest speed.

Special skis must be used for speed skiing that must be 2.4 meters (94.5 inches) long and a maximum 10cm wide with a maximum weight of 15 kg for the pair. Ski boots are attached to the skis by bindings. The ski poles are bent to shape around the body, and must be a minimum of one meter long.

In 1930, the first speed skiing record was set at 105.7 km/h. During the last half of the 1950s, speed skiing was organized at Monte Rosa glacier which borders Switzerland and Italy. In the 1980s, speed skiing became accesible to all enthusiasts of speed.

Aerodynamic Helmet
Back Protector
Foam Fairings
Ski Boots
Ski Poles
Ski Suit
Skis

Speed skiing has the potential to be very dangerous. Skiers, on average, approach speeds upwards of 125 mph and at that speed any accident can cause a great deal of harm to the skier. Back protection is the only mandatory protective equipment worn by speed skiers.

Speed skiing is a dangerous sport where an accident could lead to severe injuries. Only experienced skiers should attempt speed skiing. Skiers should have great expertise and skill skiing.

Fairings - auxiliary structure used to reduce drag and improve speed

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Speed_skiing