skyski

Skyski is a term used in mountain sports to describe activities that blend skiing with aerial flight. In its common usage, skyski involves a skier using a lightweight control wing to glide after launching from a snowy slope or cliff, then landing back on skis. The practice spans variations with different equipment and control methods and is not standardized.

History and development: Skyski emerged in niche alpine communities in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. Early experiments used kites or small paragliders paired with skis; over time equipment designs were refined for more reliable launch, control, and landings.

Equipment and setups: A typical skyski system includes a helmet and impact protection, a harness or vest, a small fabric wing or paraglider, and skis with compatible bindings or foot straps. Some variants employ a wing mounted behind the skier, others use a handheld paraglider or hang glider; redundancy gear is common.

Techniques and training: Practitioners work up from ground handling to short flight attempts, requiring suitable wind conditions, practice launches, weight-shift or brake control, and precise landing technique to avoid obstacles and injuries.

Safety and regulation: Skyski carries significant risk including high winds, equipment failure, and collision hazards. Training with qualified instructors, weather assessment, use of protective gear, and adherence to local regulations are advised. Insurance and club rules vary by region.

See also: Paragliding, Ski mountaineering, Wingsuit flying, Speed riding.