Photo: Takahiro Nakanishi
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 skis, boots, and bindings used by freeskier Hidemitsu Okada, who mainly skis at the Hokkaido BC.
Rider Profile
Hidemitsu Okada, 33,
is a freeskier based in Hokkaido. He often goes out to the mountains with photographer Takahiro Nakanishi, mainly to shoot at backcountry skis.
Hidemitsu Okada's setup
Reviewing the entire setup
What kind of places and situations is this setup intended for skating in?
Hidemitsu OkadaThis setup is designed for hard riding in backcountry
Can you tell me why you have this setup?
Hidemitsu OkadaAt BC, you'll encounter a variety of conditions, from hard snow to light powder. This setup gives you complete confidence in being able to hit the line you want at any time. The balance between the board's composition and the binding's composition is excellent
Ski Impressions
VÖLKL REVOLT 114 | L=184cm | D=146-114-128mm | 2023-24 model
What are your impressions of the performance and ride of these skis?
Hidemitsu OkadaThe stability at medium to high speeds is outstanding. What's more, it can slide without any trouble even in rough conditions, so you can hit the slopes with confidence
What else do you like about the design or special features of these skis?
Hidemitsu OkadaIt goes without saying that the punchy design is eye-catching, but the biggest appeal is that you can ski comfortably in anything from powder to rough conditions. The feeling of turning is top-notch!
Who would you recommend these skis to?
Hidemitsu OkadaThis board is recommended for freeride skiers who want to ski at high speeds in all conditions. With this board, skiing at medium to high speeds will be easier and more enjoyable!
However, the board's flex is hard, so don't forget to train your leg strength!
Boots impressions
What are your impressions of the performance and comfort of these boots?
Hidemitsu OkadaSince this setup can be used in tough conditions, I always think about the power balance between the skis, bindings, and boots.
I choose boots that can transmit power reliably without being overwhelmed by the hard setup.
What else do you like about this gear, such as its design or special features?
Hidemitsu OkadaThe wrap full thermo liner fits perfectly. The shell is light, so hiking is stress-free and you can ski down your own line without any hesitation
Who do you think these boots are recommended for?
Hidemitsu OkadaI am an advanced freeride skier who likes to hike up the slopes
Binding impressions
What are your impressions of the performance and feel of this binding?
Hidemitsu OkadaI've said this many times before, but it's all about balance.
I focus on creating a setup that maximizes the performance of the skis, bindings, and boots.
What else do you like about this binding, such as its design or special features?
Hidemitsu OkadaI sometimes describe it as a "walkable JESTER" and I don't think there's anything else that gives you the same stability when gliding!
Who do you think these bindings are recommended for?
Hidemitsu OkadaRecommended for aggressive freeskiing
Where should you mount your bindings and why?
Hidemitsu OkadaIt is installed in the recommended position, 78mm back from the core center of the ski (according to Okada).
The reason for installing it in this position is that VOLKL develops skis together with riders under the theme of "built together," and they have determined the center after many tests, so they believe it is correct.
