The National Ski Patrol, the Professional Ski Instructors of America, and The American Association of Snowboard Instructors have recognized the importance of wearing helmets while skiing and snowboarding. Virtually all race programs in the U.S. require helmets, while some ski school programs are also mandating protective headgear. There has been talk in some states about enacting legislation to require helmets on the slopes. Testimonials of helmet safety from skiers of all ability levels aren't hard to come by. U.S. Extreme Skiing Champion Brigitte Mead credits her helmet with saving her life.
Amateur skiers tell similar stories.
Mary Berninger of Boston, Massachusetts, is thankful her son was wearing a helmet during a very serious skiing accident. His friend, who wasn't wearing a helmet, suffered a severe concussion, a broken nose, a broken cheekbone, several loosened teeth and numerous cuts. Sonntag got a headache and a small cut. After two skis released, she tumbled headfirst into a tree. Although she twisted her knee, she got up and walked away from the accident.