Futureproof: Robots Make Terrible Guides

As rapidly changing technologies threaten to upend entire industries and change the way we live, we believe the outdoors serves as an essential antidote.

Over the course of our 54 years, we’ve become part of a vibrant outdoor community, and the dedicated people who power our community remain at the heart of NRS. Futureproof is a celebration of that outdoor community.

Futureproof isn’t about taking a negative stance toward technology; it’s about affirming the human spirit and celebrating the strength, creativity, and heart of real people.

At a time when so much of the world is becoming automated and algorithmic, we are taking a stand: Human-powered enjoyment of nature is a radical and necessary act. So is the work of caring for these places and for one another. And that is something that only humans can do.

Please join us in helping tell this story.

The Human Spirit Cannot Be Automated

The know-how, grit, and muscle memory earned from hours on the oars or getting your hands dirty cannot be downloaded, automated, or replaced. We believe in a future where human skill, connection, and heart remain truly irreplaceable.

With Futureproof, we are doubling down on telling the stories and supporting the efforts of the people powering a brighter future—from commercial guides and conservation advocates to everyday river heroes.

Meet SkyLR5000

The World’s First Robotic Raft Guide

Rated 5 out of 5 stars. 420 reviews.

Whether working to lower overhead costs, relieve HR headaches, or add organizational capacity, today’s commercial rafting operations have an advanced modern solution in SkyLR5000. Guide-inspired for ultimate utility, SkyLR5000 combines rugged professional-grade construction with state-of-the art BoatBrain™ intelligence to deliver unparalleled performance on the water, in camp, and around the boathouse. SkyLR5000–spawned on the river, ready for whatever.

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“Better than the real thing.”

Product Details

Set it and forget it with adaptable BoatBrain robotic intelligence. Choose between Safe, Economy, and Party modes to dial SkyLR5000’s operating system to your needs.
Pre-programmed with everything a guide needs to know, from reading whitewater, to rescue techniques and pointing out poison ivy.
Includes more than 100 preloaded guide jokes. Just pick your favorite two and hit repeat.
Adaptable voice modulator seamlessly transitions between 96 unique stereotypes, including Silverback, Bro Brah, Mountain Mama, and more.
Proprietary TÜLBOCKS™ wrist connectors let you choose between included hands, oar blades, salad tongs or meat hooks for maximum versatility. Compatible with all TÜLBOCKS accessories.
Innovative cranial guard features a flexible SpaceRayz® satellite transmitter, camera mount, and fully adjustable chin strap with quick-connect buckle.
Powerful articulated limbs allow complete range-of-motion for rowing, paddling, and chasing runaway tents.
Modular design lets you disassemble SkyLR5000 for convenient storage and transport. The dismembered robot stows easily in a 110L NRS Bill’s Bag or common trash can liner.
Multi-port power dock accommodates recharging via standard EV stations, 12-volt power port, portable solar panel, home outlet, or included hand-crank.
Integrated NRS Martian PFD with Orbit Fit Technology is pre-curved to wrap effortlessly around the robot for unrivaled comfort and freedom-of-movement.
PVC-free stainless-steel construction with top-quality components for long-lasting durability and a lower environmental footprint than other leading river droids.
100% waterproof up to the ankle, so there’s no need to worry about SkyLR5000 getting its feet wet as a new guide!
Unlimited 0-year commercial warranty.

Use #Futureproof and tag @NRSweb on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube to feature your stories, guides, and river crew.

Just kidding: While tech has its place, robots make terrible guides.

Instead of ordering robotic intelligence for the coming season, enjoy our short film #Futureproof: Robots Make Terrible Guides, featuring the one and only SkyLR5000.

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