Equipment

Without doubt the single most decisive factor that allows the disabled person access to the mountains environment and ski slopes is the specialised equipment designed to complement the disability.

Innovations such as sit skis, swing bows and outriggers allow the more severely disabled eg. paraplegia, quadriplegia, MS, cerebral palsy, amputees, polio and associated paralysis, the intellectually disabled and the people with visual impairment the opportunity of enjoying Australia's winter playgrounds.

To order your equipment needs in good time prior to your arrival in the snow please complete one of the attached forms:

• Equipment Booking Form
• Group Equipment Booking Form

and either post or fax it to:
DWA Program Manager
PO Box 514,
Jindabyne NSW 2627
Fax: 02 6456 2917
Mobile: 0414 748 903
Email: dwa3@bigpond.com

See also: Equipment Classifieds

Some of the equipment used is described below.

• Outriggers are adapted crutches with a small ski tip attached to the base which can be flipped up to use as a crutch in the lift lines or down in the ski position to assist with balance and initiation of turns. Outriggers are used by standiing skiers and a shorter model is used by sit skiers.
• 4-track skiing refers to standing skiers who usually require the assistance of crutches or a walking frame to assist with balance. These skiers may also require the use of a "ski bra" or a "bungee cord" to keep the two skis together. 4-track skiing may be suitable for those with cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, post polio or spina bifida.
• 3-track skiing refers to standing skiers who ski on one leg, for example people with a leg amputation or post polio.
• Sit skis consist of a molded seat and a suspension system attached to either one or two skis. The skier uses hand held outriggers for balance and initiating turns. Sit skiers are ideal for skiers with a degree of upper body strength eg. paraplegia, double leg amputation, spina bifida, muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy and multiple sclerosis.
• Swingbos are similar to the sit ski but are mounted on a wider double ski. This increases stability and can be used with hand held or fixed outriggers for those with minimal hand or arm strength. This equipment is used by people who are more severely affected by quadraplegia, spina bifida, muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis and brain injuries.
• Skiing for the visually impaired, in the beginner stages, is usually helped with the assistance of a plastic pole. As the skier develops the guide will usually ski out in front calling directions as they progress down the slopes. For reasons of safety skiers with a visual impairment and their guide are required to wear an 'orange' bib to identify them to fellow skiers.