Safety on the ski slopes of the Paganella area is more than just a technical detail. In the heart of the Brenta Dolomites, the Scuola Italiana Sci Dolomiti di Brenta has long been committed to promoting a modern, responsible and safety-oriented approach to skiing. This commitment is reflected in concrete choices, ongoing professional training and behaviors that set a positive example for anyone learning to ski.
One decision in particular reflects our philosophy: we were the first ski school in Andalo to introduce mandatory helmet use for all our instructors, long before it became a common practice nationwide. A choice driven by responsibility and by the desire to promote a genuine safety culture.
Leading by Example: Why Our Instructors Wear Helmets
A ski instructor is not only a technical guide but also a behavioral model. Children, beginners and experienced skiers observe how their instructor behaves and how they manage safety on the slopes.
This is why we made helmet use mandatory for all our instructors many years ago: safety is taught not only through words, but also through consistent, visible actions.
Updated Italian Regulations: What Changes from 2025
In recent years, Italian legislation on slope safety has evolved. After the initial updates introduced by Legislative Decree 40/2021, a major change arrived in 2025.
Mandatory Helmet Use for All Skiers
With the Decree-Law of June 30, 2025, No. 96 (“Decreto Sport 2025”), Italy extended the helmet requirement:
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to all skiers, regardless of age, experience level or discipline (alpine skiing, snowboarding, telemark, sledding)
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with enforcement starting from the 2025/2026 winter season
Until the 2024/2025 season, helmets were mandatory only for minors under 18.
Starting from 2025/2026, helmet use is mandatory for.
Penalties
Those who fail to comply may face:
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fines of approximately €100–150
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temporary suspension or withdrawal of the ski pass for 1–3 days in case of repeated violations
These measures aim to significantly reduce accidents and head injuries.
Mandatory Liability Insurance
The obligation introduced by Legislative Decree 40/2021 remains in effect:
all skiers must have liability insurance while using the slopes.
Failure to comply results in sanctions and ski pass withdrawal.
Rules of Conduct
The law also reinforces essential responsibilities:
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controlling speed according to conditions
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maintaining full control of one's movements
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respecting right-of-way and signage
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avoiding dangerous maneuvers
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assisting in case of an accident
Civil liability remains a fundamental aspect.
Why the Helmet Obligation Matters
Every winter, thousands of skiers come to the Paganella Ski Area. It is a dynamic and exciting environment but one where risk is always present. Even a short moment of distraction can lead to an accident.
Common injuries include:
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head trauma
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collisions
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falls with heavy impact
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contusions and fractures
Helmets dramatically reduce the severity of head injuries.
For this reason, we believe that making helmet use mandatory is not only logical but essential for protecting everyone on the slopes.
Our Commitment: Safety, Professionalism and Education
At the Scuola Italiana Sci Dolomiti di Brenta, safety is an integral part of our identity. Beyond the mandatory helmet rule for instructors, we invest in:
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safety courses for children and adults
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annual technical training and updates for our team
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communication based on FIS rules and Italian legislation
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internal protocols for safe group management
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teaching methods focused on awareness and responsible behavior
Our goal is to ensure that every student learns to ski safely and confidently.
Conclusion
Being the first ski school in Andalo to introduce mandatory helmet use for instructors reflects our long-standing commitment to responsible mountain culture.
With the new helmet obligation for all skiers starting in 2025, our early decision aligns perfectly with today’s national direction: safer skiing, greater awareness and more responsible enjoyment of the Dolomites.
The Brenta Dolomites deserve respect and care. Our mission is to teach people to experience them with passion and complete safety.
