+ How is the TetraSki distributed? . . .

The University of Utah's TRAILS Adaptive program (Technology Recreation Access Independence Lifestyle and Sports) partners with adaptive skiing programs across the country and the world to provide a TetraSki and expert instruction for use by regional participants. The goal is to provide skiing opportunities for new and experienced adaptive skiers.

Our partnership with adaptive organizations allows us greater control over hardware/software upgrades, feature additions, and, if necessary, repair work. The TetraSki is not for private sale.

+ How do we partner with TRAILS to host a TetraSki? . . .

We are continuing to build more TetraSkis and expand our national and international coverage as funding is available. Contact us if your adaptive program is interested in a partnership. We would love to work with you.

+ Where can I try the TetraSki?. . .

We partner with adaptive ski programs throughout the United States and in Canada and Europe to offer the TetraSki to participants with complex physical disabilities. These programs have been selected to cover a large portion of the U.S. skiing population, including regions in the Northeast, Colorado, Utah and California. Contact us to find a program near you.

If you’re interested in trying the TetraSki but don’t have a participating adaptive program nearby, consider contacting an adaptive program near you and encouraging them to contact us to partner in getting TetraSki in your area.

+ Is the TetraSki only for those with a spinal cord injury? . . .

No. The TetraSki is intended for anyone with physical disabilities including, but not limited to spinal cord injury or disease, multiple sclerosis, Guillain-Barre Syndrome, muscular dystrophy, stroke, and multiple limb amputation.

+ What safety concerns should I be aware of with the TetraSki? . . .

As with any sport, and especially with downhill skiing, there are inherent risks involved. These risks can be minimized through a combination of good judgement, proper instruction and correct equipment setup. Every instructor who oversees and runs the TetraSki lessons has undergone extensive training with the equipment and is there to help guide you through a safe, fun skiing experience that challenges you while also minimizing any chance of an accident.

That said, we recommend individuals with traumatic injuries should always consult their physician before trying out the TetraSki.

+ Is the TetraSki compatible with our ski resort's chairlift, gondola or tram system? . . .

The TetraSki is compatible with most chairlifts. Typically if a traditional mono-ski/bi-ski can access the chairlifts, the TetraSki should be compatible as well. While a safety bar is recommended (and may be required depending on your local regulations), the TetraSki features a rear restraint system that secures the device to the chairlift backrest.

The Tetraski should fit on any tram or gondola with a door opening greater than 36 inches. Surface lifts such as T-Bars/Poma lifts, or tow ropes, represent unique challenges. If you have any questions about equipment compatibility with your ski area’s lift infrastructure, contact us with basic dimensions and descriptions and we can make a recommendation.

+ What terrain is most appropriate to use the ski? . . .

The TetraSki does great on the majority of green and blue ski runs (beginner and intermediate terrain). However, it is not limited to traditional runs and has been used off-piste with great success. Terrain selection is often dictated by current snow conditions.

+ How is the TetraSki transported and shipped to an adaptive program? . . .

The TetraSki comes with a rolling protective case and requires minimal assembly/disassembly to fit inside. This case can be shipped via standard ground service anywhere in the US/Canada. When assembled, the TetraSki easily fits in most SUV’s and vans, and clip-on wheels are included to push the Tetraski around when off the snow.

+ How long does the battery last? Is it affected by cold temperatures? . . .

The TetraSki was designed to last far longer than a full day of skiing provided it’s fully charged to begin the day. Dual battery packs provide full redundancy in case of failure, and multiple warning features ensure the skier/instructor will never get stranded with a dead battery. The TetraSki has been tested down to 0F (-18C) with no battery life issues during use. We strongly recommend charging and storing it indoors.

+ What happens if the TetraSki needs to be adjusted or fixed? . . .

We have staff available for phone support for our adaptive program partners. If needed, we are ready to send replacement parts, including mailing the parts overnight so as not to delay use for participants.

+ How does instructor training work and who can do it? . . .

TetraSki instructors attend a mandatory training course designed for advanced/expert instructors who already have familiarity with tethering adaptive ski devices.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN OVER 4 DAYS
• Review determinants of safety, comfort, performance and independence in the TetraSki.
• Demonstrate client assessment and device set-up.
• Demonstrate competency as a qualified TetraSki instructor through effective and safe piloting.
• Demonstrate competency as a qualified TetraSki instructor through effective and safe tethering.
• Learn basic TetraSki troubleshooting, maintenance,
and transportation considerations.

Interested in becoming an instructor? Contact us.

+ How are you able to financially support this program? Can I support you? . . .

We are fortunate to have a supportive environment that is pro-innovation that affords our team the time and focus to design and build the technology.

If you are interested in donating to the TetraSki program to help us make more skis available, please reach out and we can discuss options. Your support will make a difference! Contact Us