Skisport

Skisport is the collection of competitive and recreational activities that use skis to traverse snow. It encompasses disciplines such as alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, freestyle skiing, ski jumping, and Nordic combined. Each discipline emphasizes different skills, including speed and turning, endurance, aerial technique, and precision in timing.

Equipment includes skis or ski homologated boards, boots, bindings, poles, and protective gear. Techniques and equipment have evolved to improve control, safety, and performance, with tuning, wax selection, and boot fit playing critical roles.

Governing bodies: the International Ski Federation (FIS) is the main global governing body, with national associations. The sport features international circuits such as the FIS World Cup and World Championships, and is contested at the Winter Olympic Games.

History: skiing began as a practical mode of winter travel in Scandinavia and the Alps. It evolved into sport in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with formal organizations and standardized rules emerging in the early 20th century. Alpine skiing grew rapidly after the introduction of more protective equipment and specialized slopes; cross-country and Nordic disciplines developed in parallel.

Impact: Skisport is central to winter recreation in mountainous regions and has influenced the development of ski resorts, training facilities, and tourism. It also faces environmental considerations related to resort development, climate change, and snow management.