There’s recently been some speculation about how safe skiing is with all the injuries the contestants have experienced on the current season of ‘The Jump.’ Comparing skiing and ski jumping is like comparing football to gymnastics. They are 2 separate sports that use different equipment, require different techniques and performed in different locations.
Both skiing and ski jumping are extreme sports, you have to understand the risks you are taking when signing up to these snow sports. Just like any other sport, if you abide by suggested safety rules (FIS Rules of Conduct) you can experience these fantastic sports in a fun and safe manner.
The contestants in The Jump take part in a wide variety of snow sports that are all considered extreme sports. Many of the sports attempted in the show are normally only carried out by professionals. The average skier wouldn’t have ever tried ski jumping, skeleton or snow cross.
The risk of injury in skiing and snowboarding is low, for every 1000 people skiing and snowboarding in a day, on average between 2 -4 will need medical attention (0.2-0.4%). Sports that have a higher risk include: Football, cycling, baseball and basketball. Find out more about staying safe in the snow.
Don’t confuse skiing with ski jumping. Learn the facts here:
1. Location: A Ski Jump VS a Skiers piste
Even the easiest ski jump wouldn’t be touched by most skiers, ski jumps are generally reserved for the professionals.
A ‘green’ piste is the easiest slope on the mountain and is designed for beginner skiers. A green piste has between 6-25% gradient. As a skier progresses they can move on to the blue, red and then black pistes.
2. Skis: Jumps skis VS Mountain skis
Jump skis are 1 and a half times the athlete’s body length.
Mountain skis normally come up between your chin and the top of your head and then snowboard come up a little shorter.
3. Clothing: Ski jump suit VS ski wear
A skier would get extremely cold on top of a mountain in a tight onesie!
4. Air Time: Flying 100m through the air VS Keeping your skis on the slope
There’s no jumping involved on the mountain unless you choose to. Skiing just involves gliding across the snow on skis.
5. Bindings: Jump bindings VS Mountain Bindings
On a jump ski, you are essentially attached by a toe clamp at the front and just a cord at the back of the boot.
On a mountain ski you are secured into a step in binding that clamps at your heel and toe in order to provide maximum support.
Read more expert guides | View ski deals | Safety in the Mountains
