Trav’s short answer
FIS now requires cut-resistant undergarment pants at all its alpine skiing events.For the 2026/27 season, the pants must meet at least three FIS stars and protect from the iliac crest (the top of the pelvis) down to where the ski boot begins. The rule previously applied to the highest race levels; the current wording covers all FIS alpine events.
2026/27 equipment rule
Cut-resistant pants are required at all FIS alpine events
The International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) says the pants are mandatory for all FIS alpine skiing events. The protection must achieve at least three stars under the FIS-DITF test standard across the area between the iliac crest and the top of the ski boot. Read the official 2026/27 equipment specifications.
The practical takeaway: Before an FIS alpine start, check that the pants fit, cover the required area and have the FIS conformity label showing at least three stars.
The rule at a glance
FIS specifications · 2026/27Who is covered
The change reaches beyond the top racing circuits
The previous requirement applied to race levels 0 and 1, including the major international circuits. The 2026/27 FIS specifications instead say all FIS alpine skiing events. That makes the equipment check relevant to racers entering lower-level FIS events as well as those competing at the top level.
This is a FIS alpine competition rule. It does not say that every recreational skier must wear cut-resistant pants. Race organisers and national associations may have additional rules for events outside the FIS calendar, so competitors should check the requirements for their own start.
Top race levels
FIS required the garment at race levels 0 and 1 for the 2025/26 season.
All FIS alpine events
The 2026/27 equipment specifications use an event-wide requirement.
Understanding the standard
What does a three-star rating mean?
FIS uses its FIS-DITF 2021 testing standard to rate cut resistance. Under that method, three stars correspond to a specified cutting force of 300 newtons in laboratory testing. The rating reflects a tested level of resistance; it is not a promise that a garment cannot be cut.
The official conformity label shows the achieved FIS star level. On pants, FIS specifies a non-removable label on the back of the lower left leg, above the ski boot cuff. Look for the label and confirm it shows at least three stars; a general claim that fabric is “cut resistant” does not itself establish compliance with this FIS rule.
More stars indicate a higher level in the FIS test, but correct fit and full required coverage still matter.
Before the first start
A quick equipment check for racers and families
This article summarises FIS’s published equipment specifications. For an event-specific ruling, consult the current FIS document and the race officials.
Why this matters
Extra protection has limits
The purpose of the garment is to improve protection against cuts, including those caused by sharp ski edges in a fall. FIS explicitly describes cut-resistant undergarments as supplementary protection, so racers should not treat them as cut-proof.
FIS strongly recommends cut-resistant shirts or full-body suits, although its 2026/27 rule makes the pants mandatory. The distinction matters when checking a kit bag: a protective top does not replace compliant pants.
Keep the manufacturer’s instructions, the FIS label and the actual event rules in mind when preparing to race.
Trav’s final summary
Cut-resistant pants are now a FIS alpine race essential
Every FIS alpine event falls under the 2026/27 pants requirement. The rule sets a minimum protection rating and a specific coverage area, while recognising that the garment cannot prevent every cut.
- Scope: all FIS alpine skiing events.
- Rating: at least three FIS stars from the iliac crest to the ski boot.
- Use: check the label, fit and manufacturer’s instructions; do not modify the garment.