Tetradapt — TetraSki

About

Tetradapt is the adaptive sports equipment initiative founded by Dr. Mark Rosenbluth, Medical Director of the Spinal Cord Injury Acute Rehabilitation programme at the University of Utah Health Sciences Center. The TetraSki — co-developed through Tetradapt and the University of Utah — is the world's first alpine sit-ski to provide independent turning and speed variability via a joystick or sip-and-puff breath control. Electric actuators on the sled respond to the skier's input; the mountain's natural slope provides the speed, so no motor propels the ski forward.

What It Does

The Tetradapt website explains how the TetraSki works, lists partner adaptive ski programmes throughout the United States, Canada, and Europe where participants can access a TetraSki session, and provides guidance for organisations interested in acquiring the equipment. Partner programmes cover key ski regions including the Northeast, Colorado, Utah, and California, maximising geographic reach for U.S. users.

Who It Helps

People with complex physical disabilities — particularly tetraplegia (quadriplegia), ALS, and high-level spinal cord injuries — who lack the hand strength or dexterity required to use conventional sit-ski or outrigger equipment. The TetraSki is the only independent alpine ski option for this population, enabling a skiing experience without a constant human tether.