Alpine skiing demands precision, agility, and control as skiers navigate challenging terrain and high speeds. Oftentimes, snow conditions can make control challenging when riding on ice, crud, or chopped-up snow, causing ski chatter. Could there be a solution to this common problem?
The answer might be ShredShox, an innovative technology designed by racers to revolutionize shock absorption, dampening, and comfort for all skiing conditions. The technology combines an adjustable air shock, damping settings, and a universal carbon binding platform to create a new experience and level of comfort on the slopes. Could this be the next big thing in ski technology?
The idea for the innovation stems from two former race car drivers and is inspired by motorsports technology. It makes sense since suspension systems are so common in the world. Cars, mountain bikes, motorcycles, airplanes, and even boats and trains have suspension systems. So why not skis?
After 10 months of design and engineering, the first prototype was tested in December 2017 at Palisades Tahoe, California. Over six years later, after rigorous testing, the company is on its sixth-generation prototype, building the models in Indianapolis, Indiana. The lightweight, air-spring style uses a dual-adjustable mountain bike shock that features both compression and rebound adjustments. Skiers can apply boot pressure to the ski from the front and back. It is compatible with nearly all ski models, made from 100% high-strength carbon fiber, and adds 2.4 pounds total to the weight of the ski.
And it’s not just for eliminating chatter, either. Benefits include improved turning and stability, smoother ride, and softer landings. This is all due to added static pressure keeping the ski in constant contact with the snow. The best comparison is shocks on a mountain bike that soak up all the bumps, roots, and rocks, keeping the tires on the ground for more control. Also similar to mountain biking, both the compression and rebound will be adjustable to adapt to whatever the snow conditions are.
The product is not available for purchase just yet, but big mountain, mogul, and freestyle skier testers are providing positive reviews. Comments include improved stability and control, softer landings, less impact on moguls, and not really feeling the additional weight or being raised slightly off the ski.
Over the next year, the company’s goal is to continue testing, dial in the target market, establish relationships with potential retailers, and hit up demo shows. Once it has its story down, it will do a capital raise to try and launch the product for sale at the end of the season and start production next summer. If you want to be a product tester, fill out the form here. Either way, you may start seeing ShredShox on skis in the lift line soon.
Wow. Dumb.
This is the stupidest thing Iโve ever seen
+1