Slē

Slē as a project begins with the question: Can a sledge be designed to suit different age and size groups? Its design focuses on the user experience and on defining a language that is playful but still sophisticated. Thanks to the chosen material, the result is a recreational equipment that is child-friendly, yet stylish and high-quality in built for adults. Plywood moulding has become a leading technology in the furniture and sports equipment industry since the end of the 1880's. For Slē, plywood was chosen as the essential component that could incorporate all the properties of a traditional sledge while accommodating added functional and aesthetic features. Plywood’s smooth and waterproof surface paired with a flexible but incredibly strong structure creates an impact resistance that is key for sledging and in harsh outdoor conditions. The tilted seat and frame are specially designed for the slopes, providing convenient sitting and manoeuvrability on slopes up to 25% gradient. The ‘double arch’ construction of Slē was designed to be durable against recurring forces while sledging and the radius of the upper and lower arches are made to be self-supportive. The soles of the sledge are covered with a T-shape stainless steel cover, which is integrated between two layers of plywood. This cover protects the edges of the plywood against impacts and damages. The leash can be clipped under the seat while not in use to prevent it from swinging dangerously while sledging. Mass production needs have also been considered so that Slē is viable to manufacture. Red Dot Award: Design Concept | Concept | Recreation