Revolution on the Slopes: The Evolution of Alpine Skiing

Alpine skiing has seen transformative changes with the introduction of carving skis and artificial snow, enhancing speed and precision. However, this has increased physical demands on athletes, requiring more intensive training. The evolution has also standardized race conditions, altering the competitive landscape historically shaped by natural snow variations.

Alpine skiing, now in the spotlight at the Milano Cortina Winter Games, has experienced a dramatic transformation in technology and course preparation over the last 25 years, fundamentally revolutionizing athlete training and racing.

Former champions and coaches highlight the shift from narrow, straight skis to deeply side-cut carving skis in the mid-90s as the sport's most significant evolution. The move from skidded to clean, arcing turns has been emphasized by figures like Austrian-born Marc Girardelli, a five-time World Cup winner, who noted the change improved speed-building capabilities.

Despite advancements in equipment easing turn execution, the sport now demands greater physical readiness. The introduction of artificial snow has become a game-changer, producing consistent icy slopes that maintain uniformity, posing new challenges compared to the unpredictable nature of past natural snow conditions.

(With inputs from agencies.)