New Avalanche Safety Device Uses Radar To Detect Weak Snow Layers

Think Outside is a start up company focused on the transfer of oil exploration technology to new markets.

Their first consumer product is Sknow, rethinking avalanche safety by showing skiers the snow layers directly underfoot. By applying principles and technology from the oil industry they are able to detect weak snow layers that might trigger an avalanche. Sknow technology will help skiers make better decisions in the backcountry and ultimately help save lives

Sknow is a revolutionary technology that reads the snow layers directly under your ski, in real-time, giving you have the freedom and confidence to explore the backcountry with peace of mind.

The patent-pending technology uses advanced machine learning algorithms to identify the changing conditions in the snow under the surface, giving the skier a set of eyes into the snow and enabling better, safer decisions in the winter mountains. The data will be shared on a platform to the benefit of the entire ski community.

Sknow is the perfect partner for decision-making when you are skiing in avalanche terrain. The light and removable device attaches to your ski in front of the binding and detects avalanche-prone weak snow layers under your feet. A LED light around the device alerts you when weak snow layers are present. Sknow also measures the slope angle, another critical factor in avalanche risk. Sknow is easy to use. Just charge it before you head out, plug it on to the ski and start your tour.

During each of your trips, sknow gathers data about the conditions and displays it on a continuously updated map. By sharing your data, you are contributing to increased avalanche risk awareness for the whole community.  This way you are better informed to plan your next adventure!

Though it is not a panacea for all avalance hazards, any device that can help a skier make sound decisions needs to be applauded. 

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