Skiing downhill is fun so skiing uphill must also be fun. Just look at the big smiles on those people nordic skiing up the piste while walking their dogs. The guys at UpSki are seeking to change that, rather than slogging your way up a mountain you will sail instead with the addition of the large parachute that pulls you up the hill.

The project is fraught with problems, acknowledged by the manufacturers. Wind isn’t guaranteed and neither is its direction. Fine when you’ve got the whole ocean to use, not so much when you’re on a mountain with other people and big drops. Still it’s a better way of reaching the top of a run than a T-Bar.

Funding Status: UpSki has raised $11,357 of its $11,200 target.