Mini-skis safety alert
Mini-skis are the subject of a recent alert by the French consumers' safety commission, the CSC. 90% of ‘snowblades' or ‘snowboards' do not have safety release bindings, and have proved to cause a higher level of multiple leg fractures than classic skis in the event of falls. The CSC has asked manufacturers to change the bindings to self-release bindings. In the meanwhile it has recommended beginners, and in particular children, not to use mini-skis without safety bindings.
Manufacturer Salomon has now decided to take its mini-skis off the market, and replace them with a release-binding version.
Mini-skis usually have snap-shut bindings, and can be used with all ski boots. Easy to use, with no need for ski poles, they glide less quickly than classic skis, and shake at high speeds, which increases the risk of falls. The offer the young and beginner skiers an easy way to begin the sport. But the CSC warns that multiple leg fractures, which had almost disappeared from skiing since safety bindings were introduced, are now on the increase. The commission has suggested that manufacturers should provide information warning of their unsuitability for users below 1.5m height. They suggest mini-skis should not by used by beginners, in deep snow or at high speeds.
