Topics from the brands and product lineup for 2026-2027
The appeal of "HOJI," the benchmark for "dream powder skis," is worth re-examining
The "HOJI," a popular model that symbolizes 4FRNT, seamlessly blends freeride and touring at a high level. It remains a flagship model for the brand in the 2026-2027 season, enjoying unwavering popularity
HOJI 4-LOCK｜D=128-112-120mm｜L=170, 177, 184, 191cm｜R=30m ¥206,800 (POMOCA FREE PRO included)
Named after legendary skier Erik "Hoji" Jorefson, this signature model is hailed by backcountry skiers worldwide as the "dream powder ski," and in 2020, it won "SKI OF THE YEAR" in a reader poll by the American magazine " POWDER ." Furthermore, it has garnered high praise globally, being selected as "EDITOR'S PICK" by the freeskiing media outlet " FREESKIER " and as one of the best gear by " Blister review ," a trusted source for in-depth outdoor gear reviews. Let's take another look at the appeal of this model, which has continued to captivate many skiers for over 10 years.
Unwavering curiosity and the deepening of ski design
Eric learned ski design through self-study, starting with hand-drawn profiles on paper. With the help of a friend, a nearly 80-year-old "ski bum engineer," he has brought his ideas to life, and "HOJI" is truly a crystallization of Eric's passion
Born from the philosophy of "pursuing the freedom to go anywhere without sacrificing gliding performance," this model later saw the development of derivative models such as "HOJI TOUR" and "HOJI CC," and became widely known as the "Hjorleifson Collection."
Afterwards, he focused on boot development, but in recent years his passion for ski design has grown again, and he is working on things like developing skin attachment systems. His latest models reflect the philosophy of "lighter and more comfortable," and as he himself says, "the future of ski design lies in materials and production," so although there are few major changes in shape, he continues to make steady progress in terms of materials, structure, and manufacturing
Technology that blends freeride and touring
His popularity is underpinned by his passion and reliable technology
Its most distinctive feature is "Reflect Tech," a unique technology that matches the rocker shape with the curve of the sidecut. Many conventional rocker skis prioritize maneuverability in powder, often at the expense of edge grip and turning feel on groomed snow. However, the HOJI boasts an innovative design that provides both the agility needed for long hikes and high stability on groomed and rough snow surfaces
The core material is a wood core blended with flexible aspen and highly rigid Canadian maple, combined with carbon fiber. It achieves a balance of lightness and energy, making it easy to handle both uphill and downhill
The top features "Vulcanized Rubber," a material also used in tires and hiking boot soles. This material is made by adding sulfur and heat to rubber to enhance its strength, elasticity, and durability. It maintains its flexibility even at -20°C and is lighter than metal. Its excellent vibration absorption suppresses unpleasant flapping, resulting in a smooth and stable ride
Featuring "Multi Radius Rocker" technology with varying radii in different sections, it offers a playful, surf-like feel in deep snow and maximum control in hard-packed snow
Equipped with the "4-LOCK™" skin system for securing the included dedicated climbing skins, "POMOCA FREE PRO." This dedicated system, designed not only for the tip and tail but also taking into account the internal and side shapes of the ski, allows for more secure and quick attachment.
The video, which includes footage of the crew visiting Hokkaido during the 2019-20 season and having sessions with Japanese riders such as Taiyo Nakanishi, Tenran Katsuno, Taisuke Kusunoki, and Satoshi Tsukahara, as well as an interview with Hoji, is a must-see
4FRNT SKI began in 2002 when Matt Star-Benz, a rider from the American Midwest who was active in Level1 Films movies and freeskiing contests such as the US Open, started making skis in his garage with the idea of creating his own original skis. 4FRNT SKI has grown as a true riders' company, with fellow pros who supported Matt creating and selling their own signature models.
Currently, the MSP models are manufactured at Elan's factory, which boasts top-quality manufacturing worldwide. Models other than the MSP models are still handmade. Since the time when Jason Levinsol, the founder and former president of J SKI and LINE, managed 4FRNT, each ski has been carefully made one by one at the Cote Pea factory in Toronto, Canada. With innovative ideas and designs for powder, park, and all-around skis, each ski has consistently attracted attention in the freeskiing world.
The top models of the HJORLEIFSON COLLECTION, developed by professional freeride skier Erik Hoji, such as "RENEGADE" and "HOJI", are extremely popular and have received high praise for their quality, winning prizes in US ski magazines
