FIS Certified Helmets

FIS Approved Helmet Regulations for Alpine Race Clubs in Australia

Every winter, students across Australia participate in alpine Race Club events across different disciplines such as alpine skiing, snowboard slalom, boardercross, moguls, slopestyle, and others. While most families focus on skis, snowboards, bindings, and boots, one of the most important pieces of equipment your child needs and is usually overlooked is a helmet.

Not just any helmet will do.

FIS approved helmets are a requirement in Australia in certain alpine Race Club events and it is essential for parents and athletes to understand what an FIS approved helmet is and why it is necessary.

What is an FIS Approved Helmet?

In Australia, FIS (International Ski and Snowboard Federation) approved helmets are used for alpine racing events and must conform to a strict safety guideline to be certified.

These alpine racing helmets must be worn by youth in the U12, U14, and U16 age groups in alpine Race Club competitions across Australia.

Which Events Require FIS Approved Helmets?

FIS approved helmets are used in alpine racing categories that typically occur at higher speeds.

These event categories include:

  • Alpine Giant Slalom
  • Super-G
  • Downhill
  • Parallel Slalom in alpine race formats
  • Ski Cross
  • Snow Australia Series alpine races
  • FIS sanctioned alpine races

FIS Approved Helmets VS. Standard Snow Helmets

An FIS approved helmet isn't the same as your everyday snow helmet. These helmets have the CE EN1077 and/or ASTM F2040 certifications which are used for general, everyday resort riding.

FIS approved helmets go one step further and are designed and tested for faster speeds, harder impacts, and more challenging conditions, everything you would expect in high speed ski racing.

FIS approved helmets are clearly identified:

  • It has an official FIS RH 2013 sticker
  • It uses hard ear construction
  • Designed with increased coverage for racing style use

Bottom Line: FIS Approved Helmets

Everyone taking place in the above Race Club categories are required to have an FIS approved helmet to compete in their discipline.

Before you head up the mountain you should check the requirements for your child in their selected discipline and if they are required to wear a FIS approved helmet.

If you are thinking of enrolling your child into alpine racing and need to upgrade your helmet, we stock a range of FIS approved helmets that meet the current requirements for Race Club competitions.