Zorbing: Harnessing the fun of rolling down in spheres
What's the story
You must have seen people in large transparent balls rolling around in parks. This is known as zorbing. Zorbing is one of those thrilling activities that's childish and transports you back to your early years, offering an unforgettable experience. Let's acquaint you with the thrilling world of zorbing, so you can get into this enormous ball and roll down the hill yelling with joy.
Adventure
Why zorbing?
Zorbing offers a unique adventure that combines elements of thrill, unpredictability, and outdoor enjoyment. It's an experience unlike any other. For adrenaline junkies, zorbing provides an exhilarating rush. The combination of speed and the sensation of tumbling down a hill creates an adrenaline-fueled escapade. Typically, riders can choose to pay for a single ride or a predetermined sum for the duration of the ride.
Origin
Looking back on its roots
Zorbing, also known as globe-riding, sphereing, or orbing, originated in New Zealand. The concept was the brainchild of Andrew Akers and Dwane van der Sluis, who envisioned the excitement of rolling down hills while enclosed in a large, inflatable ball. The first zorbing experience was introduced in Rotorua, New Zealand. Its popularity quickly spread, turning it into a global adventure phenomenon.
Process
Where to try
Sites for zorbing typically have mild slopes, however flat areas can also be used for zorbing to provide riders more control and a more comfortable ride. There are half-mile-long runs in certain zorbing locations. You can do it by adding water to the inner sphere called 'aqua zorbing'. Participants slip and slide as they roll down the slope, creating a water park-like experience inside.
Types
There are primarily two types of zorbing
There are two varieties of zorbs: harnessed and non-harnessed. Harnessed zorbs are made for one or two people and have straps to keep riders securely fastened. Up to three riders can be carried by non-harnessed zorbs. The riders in these spheres can bounce around a lot more than in an orb with a harness as they don't have anything to hold them in.
Safety
Safety features
The purpose of these spheres is to lessen the effect of bumps when riding. Zorbs are constructed as a ball inside another ball with an air layer separating them, unlike a hard plastic hamster ball. The two flexible plastic balls are separated by an air layer that serves as a shock absorber. Since the zorbs are lightweight, there is less chance of injury.