" STEEP SKIBOOK ." We asked users at a new model test ride event. We present user impressions that could not be fully covered in the magazine. Regular skiers give honest reviews of the most popular skis for the 2025-2026 season. Here, test riders gather together to introduce each brand and model.
RMU
RMU is a skier-led independent brand based in Breckenridge, Colorado, USA, that emphasizes backcountry and all-mountain performance, combining practicality with fun
Review of "BUTTERKNIFE"
With a wide waistband exceeding 120mm and an asymmetrical shape for switch riding, this fat twin-tip model offers impressive buoyancy and playfulness even in deep powder. Designed for switch riding, butter, and playing with the terrain, it's versatile enough for everything from backcountry to freestyle lines. It embodies the RMU spirit of "freely skiing the mountain" and is a reliable companion for skiers who enjoy powder
High maneuverability for free play in both powder and on the slopes
What stood out during the powder test ride was the outstanding maneuverability. It was also smooth to adjust to the terrain. This is a bike that will allow you to fully express your playfulness without having to hold back on the slopes.
evaluation
Reviewer
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Masataka Nakajima
Number of days skiing per year = Approximately 30 days
My Gear = Ski_VECTORGLIDE/Binding_22DESIGNS/Boots_SCARPA
Height: 173 cm / Weight: 75 kg / Skiing preference: Telemark / Home slope: Okutone
Season.
Season Eqpt. was launched by Eric Pollard and his buddy Austin in 2020. They aim to unite the ski and snowboard community by providing sustainable and innovative equipment
"Kin" Review
Designed for versatility and playfulness on the mountain, the unique shape, smooth flex, and full-height twin tip provide superior maneuverability in any condition, while the all-black seamless base is not only fast but also ideal for tuning and repair
It's very easy to ride and carve
in the park, but I felt it was a little sluggish, especially when using it for jibs. It's a good board for freestyle tricks outside the park.
evaluation
Reviewer
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Riku Nakajima
Number of days skiing per year: Approximately 45 days
My Gear : Ski_ARMADA ARV94 (172cm) / Binding_SALOMON/Strive / Boots_K2
ZAG
Founded in France in 2002, the company is based in Chamonix and offers the SLAP series and the environmentally friendly ZAGREEN program. It has attracted attention for its innovative rocker skis and is active in competitions such as the FWT
Review of "SLAP 98"
The SLAP series is a ski that can handle everything from slopes to backcountry skis, packed snow, and powder. The West 98 is much more versatile and maneuverable than its sister SLAP 104, with easy pivots and transitions. It's a ski that gives you power and control when carving
were perfect for a warm day and
were a lot of fun. They're a versatile ski that cuts through granular snow. If you have the chance, I highly recommend giving them a try.
evaluation
Reviewer
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Rin's
number of ski days per year = approx. - days
My Gear = Ski_K2/MINDBENDER/Binding_MARKER/GRIFFON/Boots_K2/MINDBENDER
Vector Glide
A purely domestic brand produced by Masayuki Akiba. With uncompromising craftsmanship, they offer a wide range of unique models, producing high-quality skis in domestic factories and undergoing thorough testing
Review of the "MAXI S13"
This model is designed for technical turns, combining nimble maneuverability with high stability. Its flexible flex and compound radius allow for a gentle change of direction in the first half of the turn and a deep cut in the second half, giving you high control and sharp turns
a flexible
flex, strong edge grip, and good torsion balance, making it suitable for use in a variety of conditions, including off-road and bumpy terrain.
evaluation
Reviewer
profile
Mr. i
Number of days skiing per year = Approximately 20 days
My gear = Ski_OGASAKA/TC-S/Binding_MARKER/Strive/Boots_ROSSIGNOL
Height: 164 cm / Weight: 70 kg / Skiing preference: Basic / Home slope: Sugadaira
The now-on-sale "STEEP SKI BOOK 2025" features reviews from 106 people, including professional and amateur skiers!
This impression project was participated in by 106 skiers, from riders receiving support to the general public. Find the skis you've been interested in and explore the sensory aspects that can't be measured by specs alone. We also tracked detailed information about the test riders, such as what gear they usually use, where they ski, and their height, weight, and physique. Reading the impressions with that information in mind should give you a clearer picture. Furthermore, riders can watch the skiers' ski runs on Instagram and YouTube. Gather information from multiple angles and have fun agonizing over the process to choose the best skis
