Scott Gelbard on Female Skiers Everyone Should Know About

Skiing, a sport that combines grace and agility with the raw power of nature, has seen remarkable female athletes who have pushed the boundaries of what was thought possible. These women, with their exceptional skill and unyielding determination, have dominated the slopes and inspired countless others. From Olympic medalists to pioneers who have redefined freestyle and backcountry skiing, their stories are not just about athletic prowess but also about breaking barriers and redefining gender roles in sports.

The history of women in skiing is as rich as it is diverse, spanning from Alpine racing to freestyle and extreme skiing. Initially, skiing was male-dominated, with the first Winter Olympics 1924 featuring no female skiing events. It wasn’t until the 1936 Winter Olympics that women’s Alpine skiing was included. Since then, women have been breaking records and stereotypes in every skiing discipline.

Their journey has been marked by remarkable resilience and persistence. These athletes have faced and overcome numerous challenges, including limited sponsorship opportunities, less media coverage, and societal expectations. Despite these obstacles, female skiers have consistently proven their mettle, setting new standards and inspiring a new generation of women in sports.

Their contributions have not only been limited to athletic achievements; they have also played a vital role in advocating for gender equality in sports, pushing for equal prize money, and better representation in media and sponsorships.

Alpine Skiing Legends

Several women have etched their names in history. Lindsey Vonn, an American skier, is one of the most decorated, with an Olympic gold medal and numerous World Cup titles. Known for her fearless skiing and remarkable comeback from multiple injuries, Vonn has become a symbol of resilience and determination.

Another notable name is Mikaela Shiffrin from the United States, who, at a young age, has already achieved multiple Olympic gold medals and World Championship titles. Her technical precision and consistency in Slalom and Giant Slalom have set her apart in competitive skiing.

From Europe, Annemarie Moser-Pröll, an Austrian skier, dominated the 1970s with six overall World Cup titles and an Olympic gold. Her aggressive style and tenacity set new standards for female athletes.

These women have achieved personal glory and raised the bar for what is achievable in women’s Alpine skiing, inspiring countless young skiers around the globe.

Freestyle and Backcountry Pioneers

Moving away from traditional Alpine racing, many female skiers have made their mark in freestyle and backcountry skiing. Sarah Burke, a Canadian freestyle skier, was instrumental in including the superpipe event in the Winter X Games and later the Winter Olympics. Her legacy transcends her medals, as she is remembered for her advocacy for women in the sport.

In backcountry skiing, Ingrid Backstrom has made a name for herself. Known for her bold lines and big mountain skiing, Backstrom has featured in numerous skiing films and has been a role model for women looking to break into this male-dominated aspect of the sport.

Another influential figure is Elyse Saugstad, a professional big mountain skier and advocate for avalanche safety. Her survival and subsequent advocacy following a massive avalanche in 2012 have brought attention to safety in backcountry skiing.

These women have expanded the boundaries of what is possible in skiing and have opened doors for more female participation in these thrilling and demanding disciplines.

Rising Stars and the Future of Women’s Skiing

The future of women’s skiing looks bright with the emergence of new talents who are continuing to push boundaries. Athletes like Alice Robinson from New Zealand, with her exceptional skills in Giant Slalom, and Sofia Goggia from Italy, known for her prowess in Downhill and Super-G, are making waves in the international skiing scene.

Additionally, the rise of freeride and slopestyle skiing has brought talents like Kelly Sildaru from Estonia to the forefront. She has already amassed several X Games medals at a young age, showcasing remarkable skill and creativity in these disciplines.

These emerging stars are not just focused on athletic achievements but also advocates for the sport, pushing for more inclusivity and better representation of women in skiing. Their presence on the global stage inspires a new generation of female skiers, ensuring the continued growth and evolution of the sport.

The rise of these athletes signifies a shift in women’s skiing, with increased recognition, support, and enthusiasm, paving the way for more groundbreaking achievements and broader participation.