What is Zorbing?
“Zorbing” is an extreme activity where you roll downhill on a giant inflatable ball. Zorbing is the original name of this activity that was started by the Zorb company in New Zealand. You may have also heard this same activity referred to by several different names. It is sometimes called riding a globe or sphere, and the Zorb is sometimes called a human orb or sphere.
Regardless of what you call it, if you’ve ever witnessed it or watched a video, it certainly would have caught your eye. It looks like a giant hamster ball and for the person who loves adventure, it looks like irresistible fun. It’s not just for kids, although it definitely looks silly. Adults will enjoy this activity so much, especially people who love extreme activities.
What is a Zorb made of?
The Zorb is made of clear, flexible plastic that has two air-inflated chambers to provide a great deal of cushioning to protect the person inside when rolling and bouncing downhill. The cushioning comes from the air between the two layers of plastic of the ball and from the connecting cords that join the two layers of plastic. This gives the rider a comfortable ride while riding downhill or a long ride in the great outdoors.
Dry vs. Wet zorbing
If you are interested in trying this, there are a few things to consider. You can use “Dry Zorbing” or “Wet Zorbing”. The dry ride is where you are harnessed and rolled along with the ball doing literally head cartwheels.
Wet Zorbing is when buckets of water are thrown at the ball so that you are riding the ball with the water. This is a completely different experience as you will slide and slide inside the ball. It will still throw you inside, but you won’t go round and round as the ball rolls. You are not hooked and instead you will be splashing and the ball will roll under and around you.
Where can I go to Zorbing?
The only official Zorbing location in the United States is in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. There are also other locations that have the same activity, but are not associated with the original Zorb company and do not necessarily comply with their security codes.