Boasting turning performance comparable to that of carving skis,
the lineup includes many park and lightweight tour models.
This is the narrowest waist width group in the freeski category, but considering that the waist width of a typical carving ski model is in the 60-70mm range, it is still quite voluminous. While carving models are designed for turns on flat ground, freeski models are designed for skiing on any kind of snow on any slope, from park to backcountry. This is why they have a wider waist width than carving models
The advantage is that you can ski without stress even on smooth ground. The turning transitions are quick and the edge grip is as direct as that of carving skis, even on hard pack. The disadvantage is that the skis are unstable in powder because of their narrow underfoot. The deeper the snow, the more difficult it is to make long turns, requiring reliable short turn technique using pivots
*Ski specifications: D (dimension = sidecut), L (length = length), R (turning radius), T = tail, N = nose
[DIRECTIONAL model]
It offers a certain degree of maneuverability in powder and spring corn snow, while the metal layer allows for sharp, high-speed carving turns on groomed runs. The ratio is about 6-7 on flat ground and 3-4 on rough ground
LINE｜BLADE
D=154-95-124mm | L=169, 176, 181cm | R=TIGHT | 105,600 yen
The extremely wide nose is comparable to that of a deep powder model, but the waist is tightly tapered. This extremely narrowed, radical outline allows for deep lean-in turns, quick, sharp turns, and even moderately off-center slides. It creates a different kind of freeski-like turning fun than a carving model
VÖLKL｜M6 MANTRA
D=135-96-119mm | L=163, 170, 177, 184cm | R=30/18/24m (177cm) | 96,800 yen
Völkl offers a full lineup of mountaineering, backcountry, and freestyle skis, and this freeride model has produced many outstanding models. The sixth generation of the highly acclaimed Mantra adds a mesh-like carbon fiber to the well-established titanal frame, allowing it to effortlessly slice through rough terrain
FISCHER RANGER 99 TI
D=130-97-121mm｜L=174, 181, 188cm｜R=18m (181cm)｜110,000 yen
This is a directional model from Fischer's freeride model. The "99 TI" features a 130mm wide nose and 99mm waist for buoyancy in powder, while the double titanal layer and longer contact edge provide stable edge grip on rough runs and hard pack. There is also the freestyle "FR" series
https://www.goldwin.co.jp/fischer/alpine2021/
HEAD | KORE 99
D=134-99-120mm (177cm) | L=170, 177cm | R=17m (177cm) | 93,500 yen
Head's freeride model "Core" series features a lightweight poplar wood core with multiple layers of carbon, graphene, and fiberglass, providing lightness, buoyancy, and maneuverability. The wide range of sizes available is also a distinctive feature: six men's models ranging from 87 to 117mm in 7mm increments, and four women's models ranging from 85 to 103mm
[FREESTYLE model]
Designed for park riding, this ski has the DNA of a twin-tip ski. The not-too-narrow waist width improves jump launch and landing stability, as well as maneuverability for freestyle tricks
ARMADA｜EDOLLO
D=131-98-121mm (172cm) L=164, 172, 180cm R=19.9m (172cm) 91,300 yen
Armada, a leader in freeskiing, has released this freestyle model produced by the well-known Henrik Harlow. Featuring a subtle nose and tail rocker for buttery tricks, a cambered underfoot, durable 2.5mm edges, a racing sole, and a lightweight, stiff poplar core, this ski is perfect for the competitive freestyle skier
WAPAN｜HO
D = 125-100-125mm | L = 171cm | R = 18.5m | 107,800 yen
This unique Japanese brand is planned and designed in Japan and produced in an American factory. The Japanese-style graphics are the work of a domestic creative unit consisting of former ski racers who work primarily in apparel. Four models are available: "I," "Ro," "Ha," and "Ho," ranging from a powder model with a 122mm waist to a park model with a 90mm waist. The HO model is a versatile park model with a 100mm center
LINE｜BLEND
D=133-100-122mm｜L=171, 178, 185cm｜R=20m｜77,000 yen
This line has evolved alongside the evolution of freeskiing. The signature "Blend" ski continues to evolve while retaining the DNA of the brand since its inception. The twin tip combines a gentle long nose and tail rocker for easy butter tricks, while the well-balanced medium flex supports free riding from jibs to the park
[TOUR model]
This class has the most lineup of tour models. In addition to a slim body, it is made ultra-light with a lightweight wood core that makes extensive use of carbon, and there are various models available that are suitable for long tours
BLACKDIAMOND｜HELIO CARBON 95
D=124-95-113mm (176cm)｜L=162, 169, 176, 183cm｜R=19m (176cm)｜102,300 yen
This lightweight touring model from a brand specializing in backcountry skiing features a flexible paulownia wood core, a responsive lattice pre-preg carbon fiber, and ABS resin sidewalls for a sandwich construction. While incredibly lightweight, the latest technology minimizes fluttering during turns. Four models are available, ranging from 115mm to 88mm waists
https://www.lostarrow.co.jp/store/c/c1030/
K2｜WAYBACK 96
D=128-96-115mm | L=170, 177, 184cm | R=22m (177cm) | 93,500 yen
This popular tour model from K2 continues to be a long-selling favorite. It features a lightweight wood core with finely arranged carbon stringers and titanium alloy only around the feet, achieving both lightness and excellent glide. It reduces the flapping that is common with lightweight carbon models and takes advantage of the wood core's properties to produce a sticky, smooth turn. It's also available in a wide variety of waist widths
VÖLKL｜RISE BEYOND 96
D=138-96-119mm | L=156, 163, 170, 177, 184cm | R=24/17/22m (177cm) | 110,000 yen
This ultra-lightweight Völkl tour model features a hybrid core made from multiple woods and synthetic materials, with a lightweight and durable carbon top shovel. The nose rocker, camber, and straight tail provide stability in any snow condition and turn. Equipped with a dedicated skin system (sold separately) for easy attachment and detachment, it comes in four models with waists ranging from 82mm to 96mm