Not to start. A racer of any age may start with any set of skis. The goal is to get kids exposed to skiing and excited about a lifelong sport. Racers may want to start with what they have been skiing on until they make a decision about racing long term.

Race skis are stiffer to the impact of speed and turning. They can be more aggressively tuned (sharp edge) than some traditional skis to give racers the ability to hold a hard turn at higher speeds. Typically until a skier progresses, they tend to race on skis shorter in length to provide for more effective turning.

Race skis can be purchased as a combination(combi) ski for both races, or slalom and giant slalom specific. At a younger age, your racer should get a good combination ski. As racers become more advanced or committed to staying on the D Team, they will have a set of skis for slalom and giant slalom because discipline specific skies provide advantages to the racers.

It isn't just about skis. Skis and boots work like a system. When a racer converts to a race ski, they may also need to consider a race boot which will have a stiffer flex. This can be difficult for younger legs to manage and make work appropriately.

Buying race skis and boots will depend on your knowledge, and your budget. Many D-team families may exchange gear amongst racers. Make sure the ski is the right size for your racer, the right type (combi, GS, SL), and that edges have not been over tuned. Always consult a coach or professional when making these big investment decisions.

While there are a lot of 'great' online deals, racers need to be knowledgeable about what they are purchasing. Local ski shops provide advice, will set up the skis and mount bindings, serve as a local warranty source, and typically will provide discounts on race gear for those racers who are on recognized teams. Fitzharris in St. Cloud currently has a race packaged for D Team participants.

A professional should always help fit your racer to skis and boots. There are a variety of factors that can impact performance. Age, ability, height and weight are all important factors to consider when purchasing skis.

Race boots are meant to fit small for performance reasons. When the fit is tight, any change the racer makes in their foot position is directly transferred to the skies. The key is to give the racer, no matter what age they are, a consistent response. It can increase racers comfort to wear them at home while watching TV or possibly setting them over and heat register and wearing them to help pack them down and form to racers feet.

Skis should be dried thoroughly after each use. Do not leave exposed to the elements. Skis need to be sharpened and waxed according to use, ability, and age of skiers. Coaches can help identify when sharpening and waxing needs to occur.

Participants should wear a well fitted jacket, snow pants, helmet, gloves, facemask, and goggles. Dressing in layers will aid in their comfort for extended practices. Choose a sock that wick moisture away, added sock layers does not necessarily add warmth. Participants should have a range of movement for limbs and extremities and layers that wick moisture.

To quote the famous words of Coach Backman "It's all smoke and mirrors..." Race suits are not required for D Team participation. Racers will wear a wide range of clothing. Race suits can be cold and participants will race better when warm. Racers, as they age, will more frequently show up in race suits. Race suits are an investment of money, but can be made more affordable by purchasing used or from other teammates. There is no doubt that race suits will improve your time, but as new participants, there are other investments that are more important to make like quality boots and skis.

Participants are required to have a ski helmet not only to race but to practice. Safety is the programs top priority and it all starts with having a properly fitted helmet.

A good attitude and a willingness to try your best is all we need to start. Ski racing can be challenging at times. The coaches like to use the analogy of a staircase. It takes time for racers to have things click but when it does, and it will, they will progress until the racers face a new challenge. The coaches, teammates, and team parents all encourage everyone to try their best and always strive to become better.

This depends on their age and ability. As racers develop their speed and skills, they will more frequently come in contact with gates. As contact increases so does the chance for bruising or injury. Generally about 10-12 years of age, if they are multi year participant, guards are recommended. A coach can help you determine when your racer needs protective gear.