The sport of skiing is well loved all over the world. There are dozens of variations of skiing, from cross-country skiing to telemark skiing and even skijoring with dogs. These types of skiing have gained in popularity over the past several decades. However, one form of skiing is still relatively unknown, both in the world of skiers and non skiers as well. This variation of skiing involves a metal frame, similar in appearance to that of a bicycle, attached to a short ski in front that can pivot side to side, and a longer ski in the back. This contraption is called a skibob.
The skibob has been a fixture at European ski resorts for years, but using a skibob to catch thrills is beginning to rise in popularity in certain regions of the United States. The skibob was actually fairly popular in the United States during the 1960s, but the craze died down when, for unknown reasons, ski resorts began banning the skibob in the 1970s. Fortunately, ski resorts have eased up on skiers who prefer the skibob. Many ski resorts have full access for anyone wishing to skibob. Others have hills specifically set aside to skibob on. A few ski resorts have begun offering skibob rentals. Skibob fanatics are hoping that more ski resorts will join this growing trend of accepting the skibob. They feel that when the skibob is allowed at most ski resorts, more skiers will learn about it or give it a try.
There are several types of skibobs for skiers to choose from. The most popular of these types are described below:
-Traditional Skibob
The traditional skibob uses traditional skis as a base. On the traditional skibob, the skiers wear small foot skis to add extra stability.
-Hybrid Skibob
Skiers ride this type of skibob without foot skis. Otherwise, the hybrid skibob is exactly the same as the traditional skibob.
-Board Bike Skibob
Unlike the traditional skibob and the hybrid skibob, the board bike skibob involves a bike frame attached to a snow board.
-Extreme Skibob
Any skibob that does not fit into the categories listed above is considered an “extreme” skibob. Usually, these are made at home by skiers, or are modified versions of the other skibob varieties.
Skibob competitions have also become quite popular in recent years. The Fédération Internationale de Skibob, or the FISB, sets the standards for these skibob competitions. Skibob competitions are similar to competitions for other skiers-exciting and competitive. Like tradition ski competitions, skibob competitions involve control gates. Skiers are timed during a skibob race in the same manner as skiers competing in downhill skiing. There are many regional and national skibob competitions for skiers to attend, but the favorite is the annual Skibob World Championships, held by the FISB. The FISB has held this skibob world competition every year since 1967.
Skibob is a thrilling winter sport and is quickly gathering a devoted following. Perhaps next time you visit American ski resorts you will have the opportunity to skibob!
