Hoshino Resorts operates permanent demo centers for VECTOR GLIDE, a Japanese brand specializing in skis and snowboards for powder snow and backcountry use, at three of its ski resorts nationwide (Hoshino Resorts Tomamu, Nekoma Mountain, and Mt.T).
This year, in addition to the "GLIDE ON GROOVE" test ride events held at all three locations nationwide, guests can easily try out various models from the brand at any time during the season.
Demo Center Features
Feature 1: 10 carefully selected ski models and all snowboard models
The Demo Center offers 10 carefully selected VECTOR GLIDE powder ski models, as well as all snowboard models, allowing visitors to test ride a wide variety of models
[Ski models available] *May vary depending on the ski resort
GENIUS 185, 177|Vector Glide's fastest powder model
GENIUS Narrow 185|Vector Glide's fastest powder model
POLARVE 186, 180, 170|Model with excellent maneuverability in powder
POLARVE LIGHT 164|Model with excellent maneuverability in powder
AVENTURA 185, 178, METAL 185|Enjoy skiing with confidence even on unfamiliar mountains
INTIMACY 188, 180|Make-style fat skis for those who want to enjoy turns and tricks
NADURRA 185, 175|All-mountain model
CORDOVA 185|From powder to groomed slopes
OMNY 165|Standard modern ski
NANO 130, 150 |Kids model
Feature 2: Open every day, test drives available all year round
Unlike limited-time test ride events, the Demo Center is open every day, allowing you to easily try out a wide range of models suited to the conditions of the day throughout the season
Feature 3: Cashback benefits for potential buyers
If you decide to purchase the bike after the test drive, you will receive a cash back on the test drive fee. This will help those who are seriously considering purchasing a VECTOR GLIDE to make a satisfactory decision
This demo center, which opened last year, was created because, until now, the only opportunity to try out skis and snowboards before purchasing them was through test rides held only a few days during the season. Another issue was that regular rentals focused on skis for the slopes, making it difficult to fully experience the appeal of powder snow
To get the most out of skiing on a variety of snow types, including Japan's famous powder snow, it's essential to choose the right skis for the conditions. Brand producer Masayuki Akiba had this to say about this initiative:
"VECTOR GLIDE skis and snowboards boast exceptional buoyancy, turning performance, and stability, even in powder snow. However, their greatest appeal lies in their design optimized for Japanese snow conditions. Japanese snow is incredibly varied, encompassing not only fluffy powder but also heavy,wetsnow, granular snow in early spring, and groomed slopes. Furthermore, conditions differ significantly depending on the mountain range, weather, and season."
For details on the features and selection criteria of each ski board, as well as the models available at each ski resort, pleasethe official website.
Demo Center Overview
| Location | Nekoma Mountain | South Area Resort Center WEST Mt.T | Ropeway Station (6F) Tomamu Ski Resort | Inside Resort Center |
|---|---|
| Test drive fee | 3,500 yen/2 hours, transfer 500 yen/trip |
| Model | Skis | 10 models, mainly for powder (all skis are 160cm or longer) Snowboards | All models |
| Test drive target audience | Ski resort users |
What is VECTOR GLIDE?
This Japanese manufacturer specializes in powder skis and snowboards, handling everything from design to manufacturing in-house.
From material selection and rigorous testing to meticulous finishing based on skilled craftsmanship, they create products that prioritize both performance and comfort. Their innovative designs and uniquely Japanese craftsmanship have earned them strong support from skiers and snowboarders both domestically and internationally, and they are particularly renowned for their powder skis and backcountry models. With
the concept of "value beyond skis as mere tools," they aim to provide products that enhance the joy of skiing and snowboarding.
Information
Hoshino Resorts Tomamu, Nakatomamu,
Shimukappu-mura, Yufutsu-gun, Hokkaido 079-2204, Japan
Official website:https://www.snowtomamu.jp/winter/
Official social media:Instagram | Facebook | X | Youtube
Hoshino Resorts Nekoma Mountain
6838-68 Kiyomizuhira, Sarashina, Bandai-machi, Yama-gun, Fukushima 969-3396 (South Area)
1163 Nekoma-yama, Hibara, Kitashiobara-mura, Yama-gun, Fukushima 969-2701 (North Area)
Official Website:https://www.nekoma.co.jp/
Official Social Media:Instagram|Facebook|X
Mt.T by Hoshino Resorts
379-1728 Gunma Prefecture, Tone District, Minakami Town, Yubiso Yubukiyama National Forest
Official website:https://tanigawadake-joch.com/
Official SNS:Instagram|Facebook|X