The Pure Joy of Bionic Skiing

Published: Feb. 3, 2021, 2:01 p.m.

It sounds like something out of a James Bond film: a robotic exoskeleton that helps you ski better. But the real thing exists. A San Francisco\u2013based startup called Roam has\xa0developed a breakthrough device\xa0that pairs clever mechanics with artificial intelligence to give your lower body a boost when you need it most. For able-bodied skiers, it\u2019s a performance-enhancement tool that will let you ignore your creaky knees. And for athletes who\u2019ve suffered debilitating injuries, it\u2019s a chance to once again experience the kind of unadulterated joy that comes from linking turns down a mountainside.\xa0Outside\xa0contributing editor Nick Heil guides us through this report on the technology-assisted future of sports.\n\n\n\n\nThis episode is brought to you by Belize, one of the world\u2019s great adventure destinations and a country that\u2019s created a comprehensive and common sense COVID-19 safety system for travelers. Learn more about how you can safely experience the wonder of Belize at\xa0travelbelize.org