Just in case you missed the memo… it's winter. Time for fun in the snow. Now, before you tell me to go sit on an iceberg, I know what you're thinking. Snow and wheelchairs don't get along well together. As someone who tools around town in a manual wheelchair, I feel your angst. But, there are options available.
First off, you know those balloon-tired chairs that are popping up (no pun intended) on beaches across the country? Well, they can be used to get through the snow too. Throw a pair of puffed-up tires on your manual chair and you'll be cruising through the deepest piles of white stuff. If you're not sure where to get them, check out Colours In Motion, or inquire at your favorite adaptive equipment dealer.
Hit the Slopes, Virtually
For those of you who are a bit more adventurous and want to hit the slopes, it might be a good idea to test your skills before jumping into a monoski. Now you can - through a video game. I kid you not. Someone actually created a game that places you (actually your avatar) on a snow-covered mountain in a monoski. Players race down the slope while avoiding such hazards as trees, rocks and bystanders. You can even do tricks! Personally, I'm not sure how much real training the game can give you, but it's a very cool idea, and a lot of fun.
Adaptive Ski Technology
Once you've mastered the game and are confident in your skills, check out the latest in adaptive ski technology. There's a lot to choose from. One ski or two? What's the lightest material being used today? What about adaptive ski seat technology? Don't let the learning curve scare you away from the slopes. No matter which of the myriad of products you choose there are no wrong answers. One of the newest devices comes from Enabling Technologies of Denver, Colorado. Their new Bi-Unique Bi-Skis are made of aircraft aluminum and have an industry-unique Glove Seating System that, they say, gives skiers a smooth, controlled ride.
If you're someone who just wants to do a bit of cross-country trekking, Mobility Engineering Incorporated may be able to help. The company describes their Snowpod wheelchair as "a snow and ice sled designed for use by individuals with mobility disabilities." In practical terms, with its arm-powered bicycle-chain drive and snowmobile tracks, this monster can take you places you probably thought you'd never be able to go.
I hope these few suggestions will help my wheelchair-using compatriots get out and enjoy the winter. We may have to endure the cold, but we don't have to stop having fun because of it.
See Related Articles
What Do the USDST Alpine Racers Do Off Season?
Paralympian Creates Monoskis for People with Disabilities
