Hackwell Innovations

Hackwell Innovations

The Ultimate Zipline
Braking & Retrieval System

We understand that every rider is different. Some come too fast, others too short, and others just right. ZIPKEA is designed to accommodate all types of riders.

Self-Contained

All braking is done within the ZIPKEA — no additional poles, cables, or anchors necessary. Installs easily to your existing zip line.

Self-Regulated

The speed at which the rider engages the brake determines the pressure applied. Faster riders get more stopping power automatically.

Captures Riders

Easily capture riders that come short of the landing platform. This universal system attaches to the carabiner and works with virtually all trolleys.

How It Works

Kinetic Energy,
Not Friction

The energy produced by the rider is absorbed by the brake's wheels and used to slow down the rider — without producing heat or other friction.

Push the ZIPKEA out onto the line before every rider begins their zip, and you've given your guides the best tool to accommodate all types of riders. Stop faster riders with ease. Pull slower riders in after they make contact with ZIPKEA's capture.

What about riders coming in at a perfect speed? Slowly retract the ZIPKEA out of their way if they don't need it.

ZIPKEA braking system on cable

Compatibility

Works with Your Slope

Negative slope diagram

Negative Slope

Best Fit

Our bread and butter. Safely brake faster riders while easily capturing riders that come short of the landing platform.

Flat slope diagram

Flat Slope

Let's Talk

Many factors come into play. Each course is built slightly different. Contact us to find out if your flat lines are a good fit.

Positive slope diagram

Positive Slope

Let's Talk

Many factors come into play. Each course is built slightly different. Contact us to find out if your positive slope lines are a good fit.

Pricing

Choose Your ZIPKEA

ZIPKEA 8-Wheel

$3,895

Plus installation & travel. Yearly recertification $299/unit.

  • 1/2 inch cable compatible
  • Universal rider capture
  • Dimensions: 14.5" x 8.5" x 8.5"
  • Rider weight limit: 280 lbs
  • Impact speed limit: 25 mph
  • Best for avg speeds under 15 mph
Get Started

ZIPKEA XL 12-Wheel

$4,295

Plus installation & travel. Yearly recertification $349/unit.

  • 1/2 inch cable compatible
  • Universal rider capture
  • Dimensions: 14.5" x 8.5" x 8.5"
  • Rider weight limit: 280 lbs
  • Impact speed limit: 32 mph
  • Best for avg speeds under 20 mph
Get Started

FAQ

Common Questions

Not every course is a fit. Each course must be approved by Hackwell LLC because operations vary widely in design, builders, equipment, and procedures. Fill out our questionnaire and we'll help you find out.

All initial installation is performed by a Certified Installer approved by Hackwell LLC. Installation generally takes 1-2 days. The cable does NOT need to be removed — ZIPKEA installs right over your existing cable with no additional cable, anchor points, or poles needed.

Training on use, maintenance, and inspection is provided by the installers during installation.

Operators are responsible for replacing wheels as needed. Replacement frequency varies by operation based on participant volume and rider speeds. Spare parts (wheels, captures, covers, bumpers, rope, curtain clips) can be ordered directly from us.

A daily inspection by your team (visual check, wheel inspection, glide test, pull test) plus an annual inspection as part of recertification by Hackwell LLC.

ZIPKEA must be sent to Hackwell before the date on your Recertification Label. We perform a thorough inspection and replace internal components (wheels, wheel kits, bearings, magnets) as necessary. Turnaround is 2-3 weeks. Year-round courses: we recommend buying an extra unit and rotating them.

280 lbs rider weight limit for both the 8-wheel and 12-wheel XL models.

ZIPKEA does not function properly with ice on the cable and may have shorter stopping distances under 32°F.

1-year warranty covering repair or replacement of defective parts from the delivery date on your Recertification Label, plus a 30-day money-back guarantee (product cost only; installation and travel are non-refundable).

Find Out if ZIPKEA Is Right for Your Course

Fill out our quick questionnaire and we'll help you determine the best braking solution for your operation.