Cooped Up? Get Uncooped.

If you've ever wanted to try skiing, but were afraid of the sharp learning curve, consider giving Skkiing a try this winter. The Skki is a new product set to launch at various major resorts.The manufacturer Trikke has based the design of this new device on their popular Trikke carving vehicle, a 3-wheeled transport that uses human-powered carving motion to allow for forward movement. The Skki basically replaces the wheels of the Trikke with short skis and is the latest way to carve down a ski slope. 

Unlike skiing and snowboarding, the Skki is as simple as hopping on. No bindings. No specific boots. Just throw a foot down on each of the platforms, point downhill and go. Rather than requiring trial and error and painstaking development of carving skills, the Skki takes care of most of the work for you. A ball joint connecting the head tube and rear spurs, allows for a sharp carving motion, perfect for cutting lines down that groomed slope. It's designed to be extremely easy to learn--think sledding with more carving power and control.  And since you're not strapped in, you can bail if things go awry. 

The Skki is made to be versatile and ride powder, groomers, slush, etc. Company reps admit that it may not be the ideal ride for black slopes with names like "The Wall" or "Cliff Dive" , but it will perform well on beginner and intermediate terrain. Like anything, performance and progression is up to the rider--so who knows.

The Skki will debut at several resorts around the US in the '09 season including Telluride, Colorado, Squaw Valley, California and Sun Valley, Idaho. Many European resorts also allow use of the Skki. So if you usually forego those ski trips with your buddies fearing the loneliness of getting stuck in the lodge, don't be a prisoner any longer. Enjoy the slopes without the pain and practice. 

• Skki
• Trikke