Kirkwood adds U.S. Airbag technology after holiday demonstration

An inflatable airbag demonstration at Kirkwood Mountain Resort last month will give way to a new feature at the resort beginning in February, officials announced. The Steezbag 50 was on public display at the resort from Dec. 17 to Jan. 1. An announcement was made via press release from Kirkwood. Here's the announcement:

Kirkwood Mountain Resort Invests in Cutting-Edge Airbag Technology to Enhance Terrain Park Experience

Kirkwood Mountain Resort’s commitment to staying ahead of the pack when it comes to the freeride and terrain park scenes took a flying leap forward with the resort’s recent announcement that an inflatable airbag will now be a permanent fixture at the resort.

Manufactured by U.S. Airbag, this cutting-edge terrain park feature will simulate a soft powder landing allowing skiers and snowboarders to safely attempt new tricks and push the boundaries of the sport. The decision to purchase the airbag was a direct result of the incredibly successful demo held over the course of the recent holiday period during which guests of all ages and ability levels shared their excitement and enjoyment of the new feature.

“Kirkwood partnered with U.S. Airbag earlier this season to bring in one of its new airbags as part of the company’s Jump On It tour,” said Jon Copeland, VP of Skier Services at Kirkwood Mountain Resort. “The turnout for the demo was way beyond our expectations and the influx of positive comments regarding the new feature convinced the resort to invest in this new technology on a long term basis.”

With the purchase of the Steezbag 50, Kirkwood becomes the only resort in the South Shore of Tahoe to have a permanent airbag feature. The resort is targeting mid-February 2012 to have the new attraction up and running. It will be located between chairs 5 & 11 making it visible from the resort village. This latest addition rounds out the already impressive terrain park options available at Kirkwood including the Burton Adventure Land, Burton Progression Park and the K2 Stomping Grounds as well as a dedicated Skier/Boarder X Course open to the public.

In conjunction with the introduction of the Airbag, Kirkwood has introduced a new Frequent Flyer Airbag Pass for just $200. This new pass gives guests unrestricted, unlimited access to the airbag for the 2011/2012 season (weather permitting). To be eligible to purchase the Frequent Flyer Airbag Pass, guests must first have a valid 2011/2012 Kirkwood season pass and only 50 passes are available.

About Kirkwood Mountain Resort
Kirkwood Mountain Resort is one of the nation's top destination resorts. Located just 177 miles from the Bay Area along scenic Highway 88, its base elevation of 7,800-feet, assures skiers more annual snowfall than any other resort in North America. Kirkwood is recognized by winter purists and national media alike for the quality of its snow and terrain variety and is a true skiers destination. Known for its pristine beauty and action-packed expeditions and events, winter fun includes skiing, snowboarding, cross country skiing, snow shoeing, sled dog tours, and backcountry expeditions. An ideal location for weddings and corporate meetings, the Kirkwood Village includes boutique shopping, live music and dining. For more information about Kirkwood Mountain Resort or to book your holiday on season pass, visit www.kirkwood.com or call 209.258.6000.

Go here for the announcement from U.S. Airbag.