Vertical Drop Ski Shop, a full-service ski retailer in Clarkston, now offers the SkyTechSport Ski Simulator that combines smart sensor technology and virtual reality to create the effects of an actual ski slope for athletes of all levels.
Generally reserved for professional skiers and the U.S. Olympic Ski Team, the device is the first in-store version in the U.S. and allows users to ski or snowboard on a series of mounted rails, with adjustable terrain, moguls, and G-forces.
“Having been in the ski industry my entire life, I know that knowledge and experience help differentiate ski shops,” says Bob Thomas, Vertical Drop’s owner. “Finding the right gear and apparel is important, but helping customers truly become better skiers is what sets us apart. The SkyTechSport simulator takes training to an entirely new level for kids and adults who are committed to the sport, or just want to become a better skier.”
The technology is also ideal for beginners looking to get the feel of skiing, as well as those recovering from an injury.
“There is that tricky time when a patient is done with formal physical therapy, but not quite ready to get back on skis. In most cases you can simulate running, jumping, and cutting movements in sports, but skiing is almost impossible to simulate off the hill,” says Robb Aikens, physical therapist and co-owner of Health Quest Physical Therapy and Medical Fitness.
“The SkyTechSport simulator opens up a whole new opportunity to get back to peak performance on the hill as quickly and safely as possible. Now you can simulate the physical demands of carving turns in a safe, controlled environment.”
Sessions on Vertical Drop’s SkyTechSport Ski Simulator can be purchased individually or as a bundle and generally last 30 minutes. Vertical Drop also offers 3D scanning and vacuum technology to better fit skiing boots by using software to measure critical data points. The retailer also offers a full lineup of ski apparel and specializes in ski tuning.
Vertical Drop is located at 6325 Sashabaw Road.
