Drawing inspiration from whitewater canoes and powder skis, the Mad River Rocket is far more controllable and maneuverable than your garden-variety toy store sled. You kneel on the sled and steer by leaning, using your hands for stabilization. The design of the sled's hull makes it easy to execute sharp turns, which is essential for dodging trees on forested hillsides in Vermont and everywhere else. The plush kneepads soften landings, and the knee strap ensures that you and your sled come back to earth together. Some well-practiced MRR riders have even developed quite a repertoire of aerial tricks on the sleds; it's very impressive, but just like with skiing, try some small jumps first before you aim for the skies.