Artistic ice skating rinks canceled in winter!
the solution: a modular pump track!
Due to rising energy costs and the ongoing energy transition, many towns and cities across Germany, Switzerland and Austria are once again cancelling their planned artificial ice rinks and seasonal skating facilities during the winter months and Christmas period.
For some municipalities, the electricity costs associated with running an ice rink in December alone increase total annual consumption by between 151% and 251% — a figure that, in many places, tips the decision against the seasonal installation.
Beyond the energy cost, the setup and dismantling process is complex and time-consuming, taking approximately two months in total. Running the ice surface itself consumes around 60,000 kilowatt hours of electricity — roughly equivalent to the annual consumption of six households — along with approximately 5,000 litres of water. Enough water for 100 showers. All for one month of use.
Curling?
An appropriately wintry idea, but not one that offers children and young people a particularly engaging or active way to spend the cold season.
What About Synthetic Ice?
Synthetic rinks present their own difficulties. The surface is made from plastic materials, and gliding can release both microplastics and larger particles into the environment. The skating experience itself has also drawn criticism — beginners and children in particular often find it more frustrating than enjoyable.
Then there is the cost. Hiring a 300-square-metre synthetic ice rink, including installation, costs approximately CHF 58,000 / €60,000 for six weeks. At that price you could Buy your own modular pump tracks. Easy choice!
In short: mobile ice rinks are increasingly difficult to justify. The energy and water consumption are too high, the costs are significant, and the setup and dismantling demands are considerable.
The Practical Alternative:
A MODULAR PUMP TRACK!
- Quick to Install and Remove
Setting up an ice surface takes the best part of a month. The Modular Pumptrack can be installed on the intended area within a few hours.
There is a suitable layout for every space originally planned for an ice rink.
- No electricity, no water!
The Modular Pumptrack — built from heat, cold and weather-resistant boat-building plywood with a non-slip surface — requires neither electricity nor water to operate. It can be ridden comfortably even in wet conditions.
- Gliding, Rolling, Riding
Riding the Modular Pumptrack has a similar feeling to skating — smooth, flowing movement using whichever wheeled equipment you choose.
- The Costs
Compared to synthetic ice hire and the energy costs of an artificial rink, the Modular Pumptrack is significantly more cost-effective. Operators can choose to hire a Modular Pumptrack for the season or invest in a permanent installation that adds value to the space throughout the rest of the year. Depending on the layout, it can even be an even more cost-effectiveinvestment! Either you rent in the short term or purchase for the future. To make things even easier no building permit is necessary!
- Active and Enjoyable
Riding is engaging and physical. It burns calories — leaving room for the seasonal treats — and keeps children active outdoors. It also builds confidence and practical skills on scooters and bikes that are useful in everyday riding.
- A Winter Gathering Place
The Modular Pumptrack becomes a seasonal meeting point. Parents can keep an easy eye on the track from nearby — perhaps with a mulled wine in hand — while surrounding businesses benefit from the additional footfall. With the right lighting and music, the atmosphere takes care of itself.
The Modular Pumptrack is a well-considered, practical alternative to the seasonal ice rink.
