Just How Fast Do Olympic Downhill Skiers Go? The Answer: Really Freaking Fast

The level of athleticism and speed on display in downhill skiing always makes it one of the most anticipated events of the Winter Games. If you’ve watched even a few minutes of it, it probably comes as no surprise that downhill is the fastest of the Olympic alpine skiing events. In this discipline, athletes try to clock the fastest time possible by racing down a steep slope in a tucked position, dodging gates, risers, and the mountain’s rigid terrain. Sounds pretty impressive, right? I thought so, too – especially after I learned just how fast these speed demons actually fly.

According to the official Olympics website, downhill skiers reach speeds of about 80 mph, although they can travel up to 100 mph depending on the course. However, they don’t always maintain that speed throughout the run. Similar to other alpine skiing events, turns and even the condition of the slope can affect a skier’s momentum. Despite all of this, downhill still remains the fastest of the skiing disciplines. For reference, athletes who compete in giant slalom typically reach speeds of around 50 mph, while slalom skiers clock in around 43 mph.

While downhill may be one of the most basic courses in alpine skiing, it’s also one of the most dangerous. The risers (or small hills) and vertical drop on the course help boost an athlete’s speed. However, turning too soon or too quickly – or worse, losing their balance – can cost a skier a spot on the podium or, in more serious cases, result in injury. To prevent the latter, downhill skiers try to remain in a tucked position throughout their run. This helps with balance and also makes them more aerodynamic, increasing their speed.

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