We asked riders to share their impressions of the gear they've been using to the fullest this winter.
This time, we'll be looking at the gear used by Makoto Asakawa, who continues to ski from his base in Asahikawa, Hokkaido.
Makoto Asakawa, 47 years old
He is originally from Asahikawa, Hokkaido, and is currently a skier who mainly works in Asahikawa
instagram> makotoasakawa
Makoto Asakawa's setup
Skis: VECTER GLIDE INTIMACY 188cm (140-110-130) '22-23 model
Boots: OMNIS PRO '22-23 model
Bindings: MARKER DUKE PT 12 '22-23 model
Ratings and reviews for each gear
ski reviews
VECTER GLIDE INTIMACY
5 levels of impression of hardness (★1=soft←→★5=hard)
Nose: ★★★☆☆
Center: ★★★★☆
Tail: ★★★☆☆
●Five levels of suitable scenes
Powder: ★★★★★
Grooming: ★★★★★
Hard pack: ★★★★☆
Park: ★★★★★
Moguls: ★★★★☆
Touring: ★★★★ ★
Frequently used conditions
: All seasons
Location (slope, course, ski resort, mountain range, etc.): Ski resorts around Asahikawa and the Daisetsuzan mountain range
Conditions: From groomed runs to powder snow, all conditions
●Review
Features: Available in two sizes: 188cm/140-110-130 and 180cm/137-106-120. Both offer a flexible flex thanks to the Natural
Wood & G-FRP construction, making them enjoyable for riders of all skill levels, from beginners to experts. Control: The nose and tail rocker are well-vented. The turn entry is smooth, and the shape allows for easy flex, making the latter half of the turn a breeze. The rider's intentions are easily conveyed, allowing for seamless control.
Ride Experience: Contrary to its freestyle-inspired appearance, it allows for aggressive carving on groomed runs. It also has ample float in powder snow and is suitable for play in the park, allowing for smooth gliding across a wide variety of backcountry terrain.
Weight: While the board itself is not light, it is stable and has none of the flapping that is typical of a rocker design. While you'll likely select bindings based on your intended use, we recommend choosing a separate type if possible to maximize the board's flex.
Favorite thing: As the name "Intimacy" suggests, it's an all-rounder that anyone can enjoy. Its exquisite balance and well-calculated shape broaden the idea of fun skiing. Since I got it in February this season, I've only used the Intimacy, which is proof that it can be used in all situations.
boot reviews
OMNIS PRO
●Five levels of impression of hardness (★1=soft←→★5=hard)
Lower shell: ★★★☆☆
Upper: ★★★☆☆
●Suitable scenes are rated on a 5-point scale:
Powder: ★★★★☆
Grooming: ★★★★★
Hard pack: ★★★★★
Park: ★★★☆☆
Moguls: ★★★☆☆
Touring: ★★☆☆☆
●How easy is it to use the walk mode function?
It has a simple structure, so it is easy to operate and there are probably few problems.
Frequently used situations (time, location, conditions, etc.):
All seasons, all conditions, mainly used at Kamui Ski Links
●Review
Features: The simple design and not-too-stiff flex make these boots suitable for a variety of riders. An all-round boot suitable for a variety of situations, from slopes to side country.
Control: Power is transferred well to the ski, and the upper shell has a wide range of motion, allowing you to instantly adapt to changes in slope and snow conditions and move the ski.
Ride Experience: The well-fitting inner lining and sticky shell balance allow you to get firmly on the board.
Weight: Average weight for an alpine boot. You may feel a little weight when going to the backcountry using a Daymaker, but the weight is not stressful in other situations.
Comfort: These are not climbing boots with a walk mode, so they are recommended for skiers who prioritize smooth skiing.
binding review
MARKER DUKE PT 16
●Impressions are rated on a 5-point scale
: Power transmission: ★★★★☆
Reliability: ★★★★★
Usability: ★★★★★
Lightweight: ★★★☆☆
Climbing mode change operation: ★★★★★
Heel lifter operation: ★★★☆☆
●Suitable scenes are rated on a 5-point scale
: Powder: ★★★★★
Grooming: ★★★★☆
Hard pack: ★★★★☆
Park: ★★★★☆
Moguls: ★★☆☆☆
Touring: ★★★★★
●Comfortable use of the walk mode function The
binding itself is made very lightweight, so you can walk lightly on snowy mountains.
● Frequently used situations (season, location, conditions, etc.):
All seasons, in all conditions, mainly used at ski resorts around Asahikawa.
●Review
Features: The system of detaching the toe piece to switch between climbing and gliding modes is innovative. It's as light as a tech binding when climbing, and functions as a standard separate binding when gliding.
Operation: Unlike touring bindings, which are connected front and rear by a plate, the separate bindings allow for more flex in the board, allowing you to fully utilize the board's inherent characteristics.
Ride Experience: While the toe piece feels slightly heavier, it's easier to drop the top of the board, allowing for earlier transitions in the first half of a turn and easier tail shifting. Depending on the board you use, it's easy to create movement and allows for a relaxed, positive feel.
Weight: The overall weight isn't particularly heavy, but you'll need to tuck the toe piece into your backpack when in climbing mode. There are two release models, 12" and 16" models, but with the 12" model, the weight won't be too stressful.
Fit: Just like a standard separate binding, it provides a secure hold, giving you a sense of security. The pins are easy to insert into your boots when climbing, making it easy to use even for first-time users.