Sports

SkiCart lets skiers drag their skis like a suitcase

SkiCart lets skiers drag their skis like a suitcase
SkiCart attaches to the end of one ski, via a twist mount
SkiCart attaches to the end of one ski, via a twist mount
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SkiCart is a device that allows downhill skiers to pull their skis behind them instead of having to carry them
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SkiCart is a device that allows downhill skiers to pull their skis behind them instead of having to carry them
SkiCart is available in several colors
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SkiCart is available in several colors
SkiCart attaches to the end of one ski, via a twist mount
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SkiCart attaches to the end of one ski, via a twist mount
SkiCart stays out of the way when the user is skiing
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SkiCart stays out of the way when the user is skiing
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If you buy a suitcase these days, it will likely come with those little built-in wheels that let you pull it along behind you. Most people, in fact, would probably feel cheated if they ended up with luggage that they had to carry everywhere. Well, Connecticut-based inventor Joanna Lach is hoping her SkiCart product will do for downhill skis what those little wheels did for suitcases. The device attaches to the back end of a set of skis, so those skis can be pulled from the car to the slopes, instead of having to be hefted in the user's arms or perched on their shoulder.

The SkiCart installs on a single ski (you don't need to be able to wheel a set of skis on both sides, do you?), via a twist-on/off mounting system. An included Velco strap holds the top ends of the skis together, and doubles as a handle.

The wheels have a stainless steel axle and bearings, in order to help them stand up to the snow, slush, gravel and general abuse that they will undoubtedly experience. The body of the device is made from a flexible plastic, that is said to maintain its resilient qualities from a temperature range of -40ºF (-40ºC) to 140ºF (60ºC).

Although it does easily come off of the ski, it is designed not to get in the way while skiing, if left on. It adds 100 grams (3.5 oz) of weight.

SkiCart stays out of the way when the user is skiing
SkiCart stays out of the way when the user is skiing

Lach has already had a successful small commercial run of her product in Europe, but is now looking towards a larger-scale rollout in the U.S. She is currently raising funds for expanded production on Kickstarter, where a pledge of US$35 will reserve you a SkiCart of your own, when and if complete funding is achieved.

Interestingly enough, Joanna isn't the only person to think of this idea. Australia's Gino Campagnaro is developing a similar system that consists of two base plates, one of which goes on each ski. One of those plates contains a retractable smooth wheel, for going over pavement, while the other has a retractable spiked wheel, for tackling the snow and ice.

The video below shows the SkiCart in use.

Source: SkiCart

View gallery - 4 images
5 comments
5 comments
DemonDuck
If you are too weak or injured to carry your skies, maybe you shouldn't be skiing?
Ct
So carrying skiis is a hassle where dragging them behind you is so much better?
Joe F
Nothing's ever easier when it's wheeled behind you, right? Except for suitcases, dollies stacked with boxes, appliances, etc. etc.
Carlos Grados
Great Idea! Now if they could invent this for backpacks that fit into the tiny lockers that our school has for our students then we could help with the growing number of back pain issues our students seem to have.
Matt83
Great idea. Once it wil be on the market my problem with my kids every year will end. Each one will have it and I will stop carrying their skis. Hope it will be soon available at the stores....!!!!