An observational study of skier and snowboarder chairlift lap bar, helmet, and snow goggle usage

Abstract

Alpine sports carry risk of serious injury while riding down runs or riding up on chairlifts. Some potential for injuries can be mitigated if riders use safety equipment such as helmets, snow goggles, and safety lap bars when present. In this observational study, skier and snowboarder use of such equipment was studied at three chairlifts in the United States. Researchers observed that the majority of riders wore helmets and snow goggles, with a greater proportion of children wearing helmets than adults. Skiers were more likely to wear helmets than snowboarders. Despite the prevalence of personal gear, a minority of chairs had riders lower the lap bar while riding the chairlift, and younger age and chairlift access to beginner runs corresponded with increased lap bar usage. While the use of personal gear was high in the observed sample, there is room to improve on the implementation of potentially life-saving safety equipment.