OBERHOFEN, Switzerland (AP) – A radical air bag system that could have a big impact on safety in Alpine skiing has been cleared for use in World Cup and lower level races beginning in January.
The system – which entails putting an air bag in the neck area of athletes’ back protectors – was developed by Italian manufacturer Dainese in coordination with the International Ski Federation. It inflates when skiers lose control and are about to crash.
Until December, the system can be worn in World Cup downhill training sessions.
Intended for speed disciplines, the system’s race debut will come at the women’s downhill in Bad Kleinkirchheim, Austria, on Jan. 10.
Men will race with the system for the first time at the classic venue of Wengen, Switzerland, the following weekend.