Simplicy and gravity. Here's a rundown of the basics...
Helmet
Sliders wear helmets that have a clear or tinted visor which extends under the chin to reduce resistance.
GLOVES
Luge gloves are spiked at the fingertips to assist with the start and paddling motion as the sliders accelerate onto the track
Luge gloves are spiked at the fingertips to assist with the start and paddling motion as the sliders accelerate onto the track
BRIDGE
The part of a sled that connects the two runners and from which the aerodynamic racing shell is suspended. Made of steel, there are two bridges on each sled - one in front and one in back.
The part of a sled that connects the two runners and from which the aerodynamic racing shell is suspended. Made of steel, there are two bridges on each sled - one in front and one in back.
Racing suit
Sliders wear specially designed race suits to reduce wind resistance.
Sliders wear specially designed race suits to reduce wind resistance.
Kufen
The German word for runner, usually made of fibreglass or wood. The slider steers by applying pressure with his/her foot onto the runners.
Shoes
Sliders must wear special shoes with zipperss, so that the foot straightens out when the zipper is closed. There are also regulations for the insole and heel of the shoe.
Sliders must wear special shoes with zipperss, so that the foot straightens out when the zipper is closed. There are also regulations for the insole and heel of the shoe.
Steel runner or steels
The sled rides along the track on two steel runners called steels. They are the only part of the sled that touches the ice's surface and are attached to the kufens.
The sled rides along the track on two steel runners called steels. They are the only part of the sled that touches the ice's surface and are attached to the kufens.
Of all the equipment, Luge runners (steels) are the most important. It is a delicate balance between having too much edge (slow) and not enough (no control). Made of various alloys, much of which are kept secret between countries, steels are in need of constant attention. A typical top-level athlete will spend at least an hour a day preparing them for the next day's runs. On race days they are polished with diamond compounds that exceed 10,000 grit which makes them as smooth and shinny as a mirror. The reduction of friction is the name of the game.