Citation

Bahniuk E, Mack RP, Burstein AH, Frankel VH. J. Saf. Res. 1974; 6(1): 24-33.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1974, U.S. National Safety Council, Publisher Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

The mechanical characteristics of ski boots have changed in the past decade. Boots are stiffer, extend further up the calf, and are constructed of different materials. This paper evaluates the safety implications of the change in mechanical properties of boots. Five brutes, representing boot development from the leather lace boots of the early 1960s to the high backed foam to boot of the early 1970s, were tested. X-rays of two skiers were used to measure range of a leg motion. The stiffness (spring rate) was measured and energy absorption capabilities were calculated. Impulse capabilities were also measured. It was concluded that, although modern boots give the skier additional control and thus reduce the possibility of a fall, but they're more likely to cause an injury if a fall occurs.