Luge is a winter sport performed on natural or artificially made ice tracks. It is a small sled with no breaking system for one or two persons on which the person lies on his back with his feet first. The sport was originated in the 19th century at the health spa town of St. Moritz, Switzerland. The very first organized toboggan race was held in Switzerland in 1883 which was resulted in a tie and the first world championship of luge took place in 1955 in Oslo, Norway.
Equipment
Luge - Gloves
The racing gloves specialized for Luge are designed to give a firm fitting to the athlete’s hands and provide comfort.
Luge - Shoes
In a sport like luge, shoes play an important role. This piece of equipment is also known as the bootie. These are lightweight and have aerodynamic features.
Luge - Helmet
A helmet is an essential piece of equipment in Luge. A streamlined headgear with a visor comes under the mandatory clothing of the sport.
Luge - Speed Suit
Luge racers wear tight-fitting and aerodynamic suits made of a lycra-type, textile-based material.
Luge - Sled
The sleds were not aerodynamic, but they were heavy and best suited for speed and strength. The sleds were first made up of woods that, down the line, transformed into fibreglass.
