Jean Vuarnet died on January 2, but his skiing legacy lives on. STAFF/AFP/Getty Images/file When Vuarnet won gold at the 1960 Olympics, he was the first man to do so on metal, rather than wooden, skis. STAFF/AFP/AFP/Getty Images Vuarnet published several books on skiing technique, and became known as one of the sport's most influential figures. STAFF/AFP/AFP/Getty Images He helped pioneer the "tuck," an aerodynamic position that enables greater speeds when traveling downhill. STAFF/AFP/AFP/Getty Images The position is now widely used in many varieties of skiing, including cross-country (pictured). MENAHEM KAHANA/AFP/AFP/Getty Images Vuarnet was also instrumental in the building of Avoriaz in 1964, a skiing village located at the heart of the French Alps. JEAN-PIERRE CLATOT/AFP/AFP/Getty Images Prev Next