'Digital Ski Coach'

By AMY JURRIES

Moticon, an upstart in Munich, Germany, has developed a sensor-based system called SkiGo that is said to act as a “personal ski coach.” The system includes sensor insoles for your ski boots and a device with headphones that sits around your neck. Your movement and position on the skis are recorded through pressure on the boot sensors, and data is wirelessly transmitted to the terminal.

Skier movements are analyzed with the aid of pattern-recognition software. The device then gives audio feedback through its headphones, helping a skier improve technique. For example, if you are skiing leaning too far back during turns, you will hear audio instructions to lean forward.

The company, founded in June 2009 as a spinoff from the University of Munich’s Faculty of Sports Sciences, won an ISPO Brand New Award for the invention. Its product, finalized in October, was designed for use in ski schools as well as for self-taught sessions.

The SkiGo will be demonstrated this winter in Europe. The company plans to go to market internationally for the 2010/2011 ski season.

—Amy Jurries is founder and editor of TheGearCaster.com, a blog dedicated to profiling emerging companies and technologies in the outdoor sports industry.