Skiing in Italy: What to Know About the New Helmet Rules

Planning a ski trip to Italy this winter? Whether you’re heading to the dramatic Dolomites or the world-class resorts of the Italian Alps, there’s an important update to the safety requirements you’ll want to know before you set off.

From 1 November 2025, helmets will become mandatory for everyone taking to Italy’s ski slopes. This new rule aims to improve safety across all resorts and applies to skiers, snowboarders, and even tobogganers — no matter their age or experience level.

For travellers of all kinds — from families and couples to winter sports enthusiasts — staying informed about these changes isn’t just about avoiding fines; it’s about making sure your Italy ski holiday is safe and enjoyable.

In this blog, you’ll find everything you need to know about skiing in Italy, including key rules, practical tips, and the travel insurance for your Italy ski holiday, helping you make the most of your time on the slopes.

Italy’s New Ski Helmet Laws Explained

Under the new law, it will be mandatory for everyone using Italy’s ski slopes to wear a CE-certified helmet at all times. This new law applies to all winter sports participants, whether you’re skiing, snowboarding, or tobogganing — regardless of your age or experience level.

So, what happens if you’re caught without one? While you won’t be banned from taking a lift, on-the-spot fines of up to €200 can be issued by police. In some cases, your lift pass could even be suspended for up to three days—a sure way to disrupt your skiing in Italy plans.

This new rule applies across all Italy ski resorts, so even if you’re only planning a short break or heading to a quieter, family-friendly resort, you’ll still need to wear a helmet whenever you’re on the snow.

Practical Tips for Skiing in Italy This Season

If you’re planning a trip to one of the stunning ski resorts in Italy, a little preparation can make a big difference to your time on the slopes. Here are some simple tips to help you stay safe, comfortable, and compliant while skiing in Italy:

• Bring Your Own Helmet: If you already own a comfortable, CE-certified helmet, bringing it with you is a great option. As you’ll know it fits well and meets safety standards.
• Reserve in Advance: Most rental shops across Italy are fully equipped for the new helmet laws, but availability may vary during busy periods, like school holidays. When you book your skis or snowboard, it’s worth reserving your helmet at the same time. This is particularly important for families or groups who need several helmets in similar sizes.
• Applies to All Runs: Don’t assume that nursery slopes or easy blue runs are exempt — the helmet rule applies across all pistes, regardless of difficulty level. Wearing a helmet is mandatory on every descent at all Italy ski resorts.

Other Rules to Know Before You Ski in Italy

Italy has led the way on piste safety in recent years with helmets being just one part of Italy’s wider slope safety regulations. If you’re visiting this winter, make sure you’re aware of these other important rules:

• Third-Party Liability Insurance: This is a legal requirement to have this when skiing in Italy. This covers you if you accidentally injure someone or damage property.
• Stay Sober on the Slopes: Italy has strict rules around people drinking while on the slopes: skiing or snowboarding under the influence of alcohol or drugs is strictly prohibited and subject to fines
• No Food or Drink on Lifts: For safety and the courtesy of other visitors, eating food or drinking while on ski lifts or in boarding areas is prohibited.

Taking a few minutes to familiarise yourself with these rules will help ensure your Italy ski holiday runs smoothly. For more information about the other rules that is current in effect, you can read our related post: New Rules for Ski Holidays in Italy 2023

Why You Still Need Holiday Insurance with Winter Sports Cover?

Wearing a helmet and having liability cover are essential, but they don’t protect you against every risk. A fall or accident can quickly turn a great ski trip into a stressful experience.

While your UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) gives access to state healthcare in Italy, it only covers essential medical treatment in public hospitals. It doesn’t include private healthcare or rescue costs from the slopes — and these can be expensive. 

That’s why having winter sports travel insurance for your trip to Italy is important. It helps protect you against the unexpected — from medical emergencies to cutting short your trip — so you can enjoy your holiday in Italy without worry.

Get Peace of Mind with Voyager Plus Winter Sports Holiday Insurance

Voyager Plus policies offer four levels of cover, including Single Trip and Annual Multi-Trip Travel Insurance options, access to GP on Demand, and include cover for the following:

Click here to find out more about our Voyager Plus Travel Insurance with Winter Sports Cover.

This article is for information and entertainment purposes only. It does not constitute advice in any way. The information provided here is correct at the time of writing however please check the latest policy wording for the latest terms, conditions, and exclusions.