The Porsche ski bob is the Arova-Porsche 212 Skibob, a rare 1970 winter machine that proves Porsche's design genius reached far beyond the racetrack. Created in partnership with skibob manufacturer Arova and styled by Porsche itself, it combines sledding and skiing into one bike-like frame that you straddle and steer down snowy slopes, and it folds compactly enough to slide into the front trunk of a Porsche 911.
What is the Arova-Porsche 212 Skibob?
Porsche's legacy as a prestigious automobile manufacturer is widely recognized, but its foray into winter sports equipment is a lesser-known facet of its innovation. The Arova-Porsche 212 Skibob is a unique winter accessory created for thrill-seekers and Porsche enthusiasts alike. Introduced in 1970 through the pages of Porsche's own Christophorus magazine, the 212 is a remarkable combination of sledding and skiing. Riders straddle a bike-like frame fitted with tandem-mounted skis, gliding downhill for a fresh and exhilarating experience. It was even designed with seating for two adults. The full provenance is documented by auction house RM Sotheby's.
What makes the Porsche skibob design special?
Unlike traditional skibobs, the Arova-Porsche 212 exudes sleekness and exclusivity. Its enclosed polyfoam body sets it apart, hiding the frame and emanating a futuristic aesthetic. That body is not just for show: it encases sophisticated aluminum struts and Suspa-brand shocks, with front and rear shock-strut suspension that was highly unusual for a skibob of the era. Those struts affix to sturdy fiberglass skis, and riders are encouraged to wear short skis to complement the machine's stability. The Arova-Porsche 212 strikes a rare balance between form and function. Its story is told well by automotive culture outlet Silodrome.
Why is the Porsche 212 Skibob a collector's item?
The Porsche 212 Skibob does not just impress on the slopes; it is designed with practicality in mind. Clever folding mechanisms let it collapse into a compact form for effortless transport, and the seat opens on a hinge to reveal storage space for the handlebars and shaft, or for refreshments to take onto the Alpine powder. With only a few hundred ever built and even fewer surviving, examples have crossed the RM Sotheby's auction block, with one selling for around 8,400 USD. More than a winter sport vehicle, the Arova-Porsche 212 Skibob is a true collector's piece that merges the thrill of the slopes with Porsche craftsmanship.
Explore modern snow machines and Porsche design pieces
The Porsche ski bob proved that snow can be just as thrilling as tarmac, a spirit TheArsenale carries into its modern winter and design collections. Discover the electric MoonBike electric snowbike, the sculptural Joey Ruiter Snoped 2 design snowmobile, the SKWHEEL-One electric all-terrain ski, and the Porsche-inspired Porsche 911 Targa table.
Photo: RM Sotheby's
Browse the full TheArsenale outdoors collection to find your next adventure machine.
