Recommended fat skiing for male free skiers | '25-26 Pro Shop Selection

In addition to their extensive expertise, the staff at pro shops have the analytical skills to look across a variety of brands, test ride on the snow themselves, and gather feedback from users, making them highly skilled at discerning quality. So, let's ask them to tell us which of the new fat ski models for the 2025-2026 season they can confidently recommend to users

ANIMA｜BLACKCROWS

◆ Official HP / https://www.hasco.co.jp/black-crows/

These days, powder snow is often very wet, and lightweight skis often lack the power to break through. That's where the "anima" comes in. While the skis aren't particularly light (2,150g/176.6cm), their weight allows them to easily break through heavy powder. They offer solid stability on slopes and packed runs, and the swing balance is impeccable.

If you're also considering backcountry skiing, we recommend DPS bindings! The DPS F-15EVO's freeride spacers allow for firm pressure on the skis, making them a perfect match for the "anima"!

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ARV112 ｜ARMADA

◆ Official HP / https://armadaskis.jp/

It's no exaggeration to say that this is a complete fat ski, carrying the soul of the legendary "JJ" ski! With a new 112mm waist width and a focus on off-road performance, this ski is sure to become a must-have for powder lovers! Whether you're plunging down a vertical fall line or slinking through the woods on a tree run, this is your one and only companion you'll want to keep with you at all times

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I (I) RO (Ro) | WAPAN

◆Official website: https://wapanskis.com/

While the distinctive cosmetics tend to catch your eye, these skis are actually well-made, and once you try them out, you'll be amazed at how easy they are to maneuver and how stable they are. (I) The skis offer excellent float in deep powder thanks to their width, and in stark contrast, they're easy to handle on piste runs! They're well-made!! (B) is an even more versatile version of (I), making them truly all-mountain skis!!

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MAVERICK 105CTI | ATOMIC

◆ Official HP / https://atomicsnow.jp/

The titanium and carbon sheet inside make these skis very sturdy, providing excellent stability on rough slopes and preventing excessive flex in powder, making them a great choice for aggressive skiers

It's also my favorite!

This model is suitable for the snow conditions found in Honshu from December to March. While it is heavier than other ATOMIC models, it is also rigid, allowing for stable skiing with minimal vibration. This is the perfect board for stress-free skiing

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MINDBENDER 106C | K2

◆Official website/ https://elevateoutdoorcollective.com/brands/k2-skis?lang=ja

This fat ski is easy to handle and has a good feel. I think it's a prime example of a ski that can be used on both slopes and in powder. With a not-too-powerful flex and the light rebound of the carbon, even if you choose a slightly longer size, you can enjoy aggressive skiing on both flat ground and powder with simple handling.

The key points are the waist width of around 105mm, which provides sharp carving and buoyancy, and the medium radius that makes carving easy. If you keep these points in mind, I think there are many skis that can be enjoyed with a similar feel, not just this one.

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REVOLT 104｜VÖLKL

◆Official website/ https://elevateoutdoorcollective.com/brands/volkl-skis?lang=ja

From the slopes to the powder, this one board will give you 80% or more of fun on any day and in any situation. With just the right weight and sticky hardness, it's great for the peak season as well as heavy spring snow. Its wide range of playability means you can't go wrong with this board when you're not sure what to choose

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SEA 108｜SCOTT

◆ Official HP / https://www.scott-sports.com/jp/ja/

I think this ski is a pleasure to use in all snow conditions in Japan. From the start of the season in December until the end of the season at the end of May, it is a very easy ski to use, except for special skiing styles. What makes this possible is the balance between flex and torsion.

The strength of snow resistance obtained varies greatly depending on the snow quality. Therefore, skis that are good in one condition tend to be weak in others, but the SEA108 is a ski that strikes an exquisite balance. There is also a wide range of binding options available. The versatility of the SEA108 is further enhanced by the fact that you can choose the one that best suits your skiing style and the combination of boots you use.

I also recommend it!

The "SEA108" is a perfect match for the snow surface! The "ship bottom" shape of the tip and tail works well, allowing you to make turns comfortably without catching! What's more, the tip and tail are flexible, while the metal underfoot is firm. This is also an exquisite balance. The name is cool, "SKI EVERYWHERE ANYTIME" = SEA. It's truly the ultimate partner for having fun skiing anywhere!

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SENDER FREE 118 OPEN｜ROSSIGNOL

◆ Official HP / https://rossignol.co.jp/

These skis offer satisfactory performance as fat powder skis, with excellent traction, good ski control, and stable gliding. Some people may find their weight a challenge, but I think this actually contributes to their excellent gliding and traction. These skis give the impression of gliding firmly in powder, rather than floating around

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UNLIMITED104｜NORDICA

◆ Official HP / https://www.tecnica-group.com/

It's lightweight yet strong enough to provide firm traction. It responds well to your movements and allows for easy maneuvering. At the same time, it's stable, making it easy to control turns, from small to large, regardless of size. It's also less affected by changes in snow quality, making it a reliable companion for backcountry skiing in tricky snow and terrain

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VANDEER FREERIDE 108 ｜ VAN DEER-Red Bull Sports

◆Official website/ https://vandeer-redbull-sports.com/

It's incredibly stable. It's finished with a race-room finish using the same materials as racing skis, so it's great for rough conditions and easy to ski on any slope. Making a long turn feels amazing!

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 VISION114｜LINE

◆Official website/ https://elevateoutdoorcollective.com/brands/line-skis?lang=ja

The VISON 114 has a thick shape but is lightweight. I chose it because I thought it would be a ski that could be handled by both men who like to push hard and men who are a little less confident in their power. It is sure to be a hit on the slopes, in the side country, and in the backcountry. The slightly strong nose rocker creates buoyancy in powder, and its maneuverability is excellent. It is also recommended for those who want to venture from the slopes to the backcountry

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