Jessica P - Oct 9, 2024

COMPETITIVE SKIING LIGHTING

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LIGHTING FOR COMPETITIVE SKIING AT NIGHT

The athletic elite can be found on the slopes competing in various forms of alpine skiing that include downhill, slalom, nordic, free ride, ski cross and mogul. While each format has its own unique rules and equipment, all require speed, precision and technical mastery from both athletes and the course design itself. Proper lighting is required for night and often daytime competition.

Whether it’s community ski teams training for local competitions or professionals getting groomed for high profile venues that host Olympic style events, the perfect lighting is essential for the performance and safety of athletes.
Providing a visually captivating and detailed experience for spectators and judges alike is all part of the show.

Optimal lighting is both an investment in your operational infrastructure but also a commitment to excellence for the sport.

COMPETE WITH THE BEST IN OPTIMIZED LIGHTING

Alpine skiing dates back thousands of years and first became a competitive sport with the military. The first recorded recreational competition was held in Oslo, Norway.

 The word ski comes from the old Norse word “skíð” which means “stick of wood”. How far we’ve come from skiing downhill on what were literally wooden sticks carrying fiery torches to light the way.

The installation of lighting optimized for competitive skiing by LuxLogic is designed to meet safety, environmental and energy standards while enhancing programming flexibility that can adapt as your property transforms for year round activities such as hiking and mountain biking as well for special events and private rentals.

As of 2023 there was said to be 55 million people that were alpine skiing. With more competitive events being held at night and the growth of ski clubs around the world it’s the ideal time to upgrade from legacy technology and meet the improved standards of lighting for competitive skiing.

IMPROVED SAFETY

Alpine skiing is known to be the fastest non-motorized sport with speeds of 150 kmh/ 90mph being common. Safety awareness is central to the sport and lighting is one way to help mitigate risks.

The International Ski Federation (FIS) is known for its series of events such as the World Championships, the World Cup, and the Winter Olympics has developed lighting standards and to address the high risk factors of this sport that are primarily meteorological events and the vulnerability to danger that athletes have in competition and training.

 LuxLogic can help provide a safe and enjoyable experience for your guests and staff by providing the right amount of illumination and quality of light in all the right places.

ENHANCED VISIBILITY

Better lighting ensures that skiers have improved vision of terrain and obstacles, enabling them to navigate the courses more safely and confidently.

Proper lighting helps athletes perform at their best by providing optimal visual conditions - reducing eye strain and better reaction times.

Aiming fixtures correctly for glare control and rendering the slope contours accurately in all weather conditions are what competitors need to be able to rely on while looking good on camera and focusing on executing a flawless performance.

LIGHTING CHARACTERISTICS

Alpine skiing is categorized as a unidirectional sport. Understanding the science of snow reflectivity and the terrain is essential to providing the best optimal illumination on horizontal and vertical surfaces. Competitors are encountering obstacles and making split second decisions to score those race points safely through the gate.

The following are key characteristics for lighting at night to provide visibility and safety on the slopes for extreme speeds.

LIGHT UNIFORMITY & CONTRAST

At night there needs to be consistent light uniformity and enough brightness for skiers and snowboarders competing so that their sight is not further strained by having to adjust their vision constantly and so that they can also be seen at all angles. The right combination of uniformity and contrast allows athletes to move at top speed while clearly identifying markers, boundaries and gates at the bottom of the race course.

The use of light and shadow are techniques used to aid with depth perception, wayfinding and highlighting areas. This modeling with light from different angles also helps athletes be seen.

With controlled light at night, it mitigates the “sludge” effect that happens during overcast days which can be very disorienting. Some believe for this reason it is safer to ski at night. The uniformity of the horizontal illuminance is recommended at between 0.5 to 0.7 (Emin/Eaverage) depending on sport class. Higher uniformity in televised situations creates smoother looking visuals on screens such as HDTV. A uniformity value of 0.8 (Emin/Eaverage) is specified with the 0.7 for fixed cameras.

BEAM SPREAD & OPTICS

Our wide beam spread fixtures for high mast sports lighting applications are ideal for general illumination, providing a broad and uniform light distribution on your slopes.

We can specify narrow beam spreads to highlight jumps, gates, and finish lines, to ensure that these points are well-lit.

SNOW REFLECTIVITY

Snow is highly reflective on the ground surface as are the moisture particles in the air.

From champagne powder to corduroy snow packs, there is an extensive list of snow types coined by skiing culture. Even the Eskimos have 50 different names for types of snow.

The weather can change drastically throughout the day and without warning which results in us perceiving light and reflectance differently as well. Our lights are designed to penetrate blizzards and foggy conditions for better vision. For this reason, sometimes lights are used even during daylight hours when necessary.

GLARE CONTROL

Glare can be dangerous in situations like extreme sports.

The light sources should not be aimed uphill. In addition to glare reduction strategies.

 LuxLogic LEDs offer beam control and accessories that are designed to direct light to where it is needed with the use of luminaire accessories to control beam spread.

A maximum GR value of 50 is generally specified for sports projects.

MOUNTING HEIGHTS, AIMING AND SPACING OF LIGHTS

The mounting, aiming and spacing of fixtures correctly is a critical phase during planning and installation.

Slope gradients, snow depth and snow reflectance data are needed to determine these.

High-Mounted Fixtures are used to cover large surface areas with light and provide uniformity.

Low-Mounted Fixtures are used to light specific sections of the course or enhance depth perception by illuminating the terrain from different angles.

Effective pole height is used to determine longitudinal pole spacing. On slopes, the effective pole height is determined as illustrated in Figure 6-42. This includes pole height above snow, snow depth, and vertical differential between poles

ILLUMINATION LEVELS

The right illumination standards to meet and maintain safety and visual comfort levels for competitors is crucial.

Training and competitive skiing comes with unique challenges as there are increased speeds and obstacles. Safety is a priority as is how light interacts with camera technology for broadcasting.

 Spectators and judges on the sidelines need to be accounted for too.

RECOMMENDED LUX LEVELS

ALPINE SKIING

General Slopes: 20-100 lux for recreational areas.
Competitive Slopes: 200-500 lux, depending on the level of competition and broadcast requirements.

NIGHT SKIING

General Slopes: 50-100 lux.
Competitive Slopes: 200-500 lux.

TERRAIN PARKS

Jumps and Features: 300-500 lux for highlighting specific areas.

CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING

Trails: 30-50 lux for general trails.
Competitive Trails: 100-200 lux.

REQUIREMENTS FOR SKI SLOPES

At ski areas where foggy conditions are common, it’s been reported that an increase to the minimum illuminance of 3 lux (0.3 fc) will help offset snowy or foggy conditions.

The Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) provides comprehensive guidelines and standards for sports lighting, including specific recommendations for skiing.

The International Ski Federation (FIS) sets standards and guidelines for lighting in competitive skiing events to ensure safety and fairness.

These standards ensure that the lighting setup provides optimal visibility, safety, and performance conditions for competitive skiing. Adhering to these guidelines helps create a professional and enjoyable environment for athletes and spectators alike.

ADVANTAGES TO OPTIMIZING YOUR LIGHTING WITH LEDS

DURABILITY IN ALL WEATHER

Weather resistant design is crucial for moisture and extreme temperatures at snow venues. Our products are designed with durability in mind to withstand the most challenging of weather conditions.

COLOUR TEMPERATURE & COLOUR RENDERING

The color temperature of the lighting affects visibility and comfort:

For competitive skiing cool white at 4000K-5000K is recommended as it closely resembles daylight, enhancing visibility and reducing eye strain.

The visibility of flags, gates and other markers that are wayfinders that need to be clearly seen and have the accurate colour rendering to prevent fatal confusion or compromised performance.

LEDs provide bright, uniform lighting with high color rendering index (CRI), which is essential for accurately perceiving colors and contrasts. This is particularly important for competitive skiing, where athletes need to distinguish subtle changes in the terrain.

“The difference is night and day—literally! With the new LED lighting on the slopes, I can see every detail in the snow, even during evening training sessions. It’s not just about safety; it’s about pushing my limits with confidence.” — Samantha L., Professional Snowboarder

“Watching the night competitions is so much better with the new LED lights. The clarity is incredible, and the atmosphere is electrifying. It’s like the whole mountain comes to life under those lights.” — John M., Snow Sports Enthusiast

COST & ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Switching to LEDs provides significant energy savings, immediate start up times, longer life spans and superior performance compared to most legacy lights such as HIDs that are known for excessive brightness and light pollution. While these types of lamps are suitable in some environments, the great outdoors is not one.

In terms of cost reduction, LEDs are known to result in an average of 85% energy savings. The initial investment of upgrading your lighting will also reduce the need for maintenance and relamping significantly.

FLEXIBILITY WITH AUTOMATED CONTROLS

The integration of automated controls will save time and money by allowing remote access and implementing immediate programming changes from standard to dynamic lighting scenes for special events such as competitions.

With IOT, lighting usage and performance can be monitored and provide you with useful data throughout the year and even help with preventative measures.

EMERGENCY AND SAFETY LIGHTING

Install emergency lighting systems that activate during power outages to guide skiers and staff to safety.

Clearly illuminated and easily visible exit signs are important to not overlook as part of a lighting design plan.

BROADCASTING & SOCIAL MEDIA

The spectator experience is such an important part of competition with added excitement and media metrics.

We’ll work with you to achieve lighting that is flicker-free which is especially important for high-speed photography and broadcasting.

Lighting enhances the quality of competitive events, attracting more athletes and spectators, potentially resulting in more media coverage and sponsorship opportunities.

Television broadcasting generally calls for an average Ev of between approximately 1000 lux and 2000 lux.

CONTACT US FOR YOUR COMPLIMENTARY LIGHTING CONSULTATION

The LuxLogic lighting approach is to integrate with the surrounding features and natural landscape.

Through consultation with your team, we can perform the calculations to meet industry standards in collaboration with various ski competition guidelines.

Let’s discuss your competition and event needs and so we can help you achieve your goals on budget with well designed lighting.

OUR SOLUTIONS

CONTENDER

WATTAGE: 300W/600W/900W/1200W

CCT: 3000K/4000K/5000KVOLTAGE

VOLTAGE: 100-277V (UNV) / 277-480V (HV)

MOUNTING: YOKE (STD) / SLIP FITTER

150LM/W

170LM/W (155 LM/W FOR G4)
The Contender Sports Flood Light is the swiss army knife of sports lighting. Featuring a modular design that allows the connection of up to three separate modules, each rotatable 360°, the Contender is a versatile luminaire that can handle a huge variety of projects. IP66 and IK10 ratings make it ideal for outdoor use, and offering a variety of beam angles for multiple applications - 30°, 60°, 90° and Asymmetric-G4 Type.


• LED Type: Philips

• LED Type: Inventronics/Meanwell

• CRI: RA>70(Standard); RA>80(Optional)

• THD: <15%

• Power Factor: >0.95

• Operating Temperature: -40ºC to 60ºC / -40ºF to 140ºF

RANGER

WATTAGE: 250W/500W/750W/1000W/1250W

CCT: 3000K/4000K/5000K/5700K/6500K

VOLTAGE: 100-277V (UNV) / 200-480V (HV)

MOUNTING: TRUNNION (STD) / SLIP FITTER

125LM/W
The Ranger RGR features a unique modular designs that allows ease of installation and replacement. It also increases the fixture’s flexibility in light direction. Multiple mounting options and lumen output up to 156,250 lumens make the Ranger an ideal choice for a low cost sports or high mast application.

• LED Type: Meanwell

• LED Driver: Lumileds/Samsung

• Lumen Maintenance @L70: 50,000 hours

• CRI: >70  Ra

• THD: <15%

• Power Factor: >0.93

• Operating Temperature: -40ºC to 50ºC / -40ºF to 122ºF

CHAMPION 3

WATTAGE: 300W/400W/500W/600W/750W/1000W/1200W

CCT: 3000K/4000K/5000K/5700K

VOLTAGE: 100-277V (UNV) / 277-480V (HV)

MOUNTING: YOKE (STD) / SLIP FITTER

135 - 170LM/W

The Champion 3 LED Sports Flood Light is the ideal stadium light. This sports light packs a punch providing 135-170lm/W. It is available in multiple beam angles and color temperatures. This fixture is waterproof, (IP 66 rated), dust-proof, and provides superior thermal venting.
• LED Type: Lumileds/Osram

• LED Driver: Integral Inventronics

• Lumen Maintenance @L70: 65,000 hours

• CRI:  >70

• THD: <15%

• Power Factor: >0.95

• Operating Temperature: -40ºC to 50ºC / -40ºF to 122ºF

TRIMAX

WATTAGE: 100W/150W/200W/300W/450W

CCT: 3000K/3500K/4000K/5000K

VOLTAGE: 100-277V (UNV) / 277-480V (HV)

MOUNTING: YOKE (STD) (100-200W SINGLE, 300-450W DOUBLE) / LONG OR SHORT ARM / SURFACE MOUNT / EYE BOLT / LONG SLIP FITTER (300-450W) / SHORT SLIP FITTER (300-450W)

130LM/W

The multipurpose Trimax LED High Bay/Low Bay/Floodlight series can withstand very high temperatures with the option of a High Temperature Option that increases its operating temperature range to –30º to 80ºC / –22º to 176ºF

• LED Engine: Osram/Philips Lumileds

• Lumen Maintenance @L70: >100,000 hours

• CRI: 80+/90+

• Power Factor: >0.95

• Normal Operating Temperature: -30ºC to 60ºC / -22ºF to 140ºF

• High Temp Operating Temperature: -30ºC to 80ºC / -22ºF to 176ºF

Enhance the nighttime skiing experience with Lux Logic lighting…

Small ski hills to destination ski resorts around the world continue to upgrade their lighting to meet the increase of visitors participating in sports activities. Equally competitions and broadcasted events are seeking host venues to partner with. This is the time to make your slopes shine the right way.

With the correct lighting, your guests can ski with enjoyment while navigating those tricky spots with confidence while enjoying all the other amenities of your venue.

Ripping, shredding or sledding, contact us for a consultation so you can spend more time with your pals at the lodge for that aprés ski!

“The LED lighting on the mountain makes evening snowboarding a whole new experience. The colors pop, the shadows are minimized, and I feel much more in control. It’s like riding on a perfect bluebird day, even after the sun goes down.”

— Ryan P., Recreational Snowboarder

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