In a futuristic take on pedestrian transportation, these sidewinding circular skates give users the sensation of “skateboarding” — minus the board. Riders simply place their feet inside the pair of rings, standing on pedal-like platforms that rotate inside the circles on tracks. The concept is straightforward enough, but riders must apply an impeccable sense of balance to propel themselves forward. A rod can connect the two rings to stabilize beginners.
“Riders simply place their feet on the two platforms and lean side-to-side to rotate the rubber wheels around the feet, propelling riders forward in a serpentine motion similar to longboard skateboarding,” the product’s website explains. The overall effect makes riders look like they’re hovering over the sidewalk. Hammacher Schlemmer, a website that carries unique gifts, retails the item at $99.95.
Due to their recent release, the jury is still out on whether the “post-modern skateboard” will become the next craze to grip the counterculture consumer market. They seem to follow the innovative path of roller skates, skateboards, Heelys and RipStiks. Whether it catches on in a widespread manner or not, it’s easy to agree that these skates present a fascinating concept worthy of 2015.
