Not only the pros at the Hahnenkamm race - recreational skiers also play it safe with the FIS label.

The edges of skis are razor-sharp. Nevertheless, most people think of broken bones and ligament injuries when it comes to skiing accidents. However, cuts are often serious and blood loss can quickly become life-threatening.

The Deutsche Institute für Textil- und Faserforschung Denkendorf (DITF) carry out cutting-tests on materials for the Fédération Internationale de Ski (FIS) and textile manufacturers. If they pass the tests, they are awarded the FIS label in the form of a 5-star scale.

In order to receive the quality label, the ski undergarment must pass demanding tests: The scientists at the DITF test the compressive force with which the ski undergarment is cut by a freshly and relevantly sharpened ski edge.

The fabric has to withstand a minimum 20 centimeter cutting length at an angle of 0, 45 and 90 degrees. The test simulates a cut on an arm or leg with a compressive force of up to 500 N (50 kilograms).

The cutting speed is also precisely defined. For comparable data, the same type of ski is used for each test, the edges of which are always grinded in exactly the same way.

If the undergarment withstands 100 N (10 kilograms) of pressure, it reaches the minimum level of 1 star. For every additional 100 N an additional level and star is reached. Up to 5 stars / levels are possible.