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Race Gear

Team Coats (optional)

Team coats are optional and are available in navy or black with the GNA logo and your racer's name embroidered. They are ordered through Libby Schulz at Don Orr Ski 'N' Beach Haus each January. Call (231) 946-8810 or email libbyschulz@gmail.com.

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Team SWAG

After each race, the podium is a place to show team pride and unity through a team uniform. Beginning this year, GNA will have the same cohesive look with Patagonia 1/4 zip fleeces in navy with orange logo. Order yours today for delivery by December:

 

 

 

Unadvertised Racer Sale: First week in October

For one week, Don Orr Ski 'N' Beach Haus holds an unadvertised sale that gives racers a percentage over wholesale pricing for all race gear, including soft goods. For more information,

call (231) 946-8810 or email libbyschulz@gmail.com.

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Hand-Me-Down Race Gear

There are many sources that people use. When buying used gear, PROCEED WITH CAUTION. Before you buy, get a free assessment by Eric Shutler at Don Orr; call (231) 946-8810.

 

Ski Swaps

There are three fall ski swaps in our area every year. These swaps have experienced techs working; use their knowledge to ascertain equipment safety and durability:

  • Crystal Mountain, last Saturday in October, bottom floor of Crystal Center

  • Grand Traverse Ski Club, first Saturday in November at West Middle School

  • Antrim Ski Academy, last Saturday in November at Shanty Creek

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Helmets (MHSAA guidelines)

Helmets designed and manufactured for the particular discipline of ski racing are required for all competitors and forerunners in all events and official training.

  • Giant slalom: Must completely cover the head (no soft ears).

  • Slalom: Must have an integral chin guard on the helmet; soft ears are allowed.

The MHSAA neither specifies nor recommends any helmet design or brand name. It is the responsibility of the school/competitor to select an appropriate helmet and use it in the manner prescribed by the manufacturer.

 

Skis 

  • If you can only get one pair of skis, get a slalom ski.

  • Slalom skis should measure somewhere around the chin (min)/nose (max).

  • GS skis usually 20cm longer than your slalom skis.

  • If you purchase used skis, take them to Don Orr to get assessed for fit and condition.

  • Ask to get new structure (the way the base of your ski is ground for racing.)

 

Boots 

  • Flex: The flex of a ski boot refers to how much pressure it takes to bend and move the boot. The flex is always measured in a number. Bigger and more aggressive racers need a stiffer and stronger boot Racers that are taller or heavier should consider stiffer flexed boots. Girls and lightweight boys will look for 90-110 flex boots, boys usually 90-130 flex.

  • Comfort: Get a boot that is comfortable. Immediately replace the factory footbed liner with a custom pair if financially possible. Custom or even off-the-shelf footbeds can reduce many fit problems.

  • Boot canting: Canting refers to adjusting alignment of the boot to correct a knocked-kneed or bowlegged stance through sole planing, cantable soles or wedges under the binding. Proper canting requires an accurate stance assessment and specialized tools. Don Orr in Traverse City and Bahnhof Sport in Petoskey have good boot canting services.

 

Poles

  • Slalom: Straight poles with guards. If you can only get one pair, get slalom. To get a rough measure, flip the pole upside down, grip just below the basket. Arm should be at 90 degrees.

  • GS: Bent, no guards.

 

GS Suit (optional)

  • GS suits have padding on the forearms, back and shins. This padding helps protect racers when hitting gates and if they fall. Used suits can be found online or purchased through Don Orr’s racer sale in October.

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