If you remove the condition of "all-around performance,"
the feel of skiing becomes virtually limitless.
This category is filled with shapes that make any skier want to ride it at least once, such as an extra-thick body with a waist exceeding 120mm, an asymmetrical outline, and a unique nose and tail shape. Not all models were necessarily born as deep powder machines, but they provide a great amount of floatation and a high level of comfort in big runs of high-quality deep snow that accumulates in windless, low temperatures
What's surprising is that there are quite a few models that are easy to turn on packed snow. Of course, you can't expect the quick turns and direct control of a thinner board, but you can still turn with a relatively natural feeling even on packed snow. This deceptive performance is proof of the evolution of modern ski technology, including materials, structure, and outline design
While it would be more realistic to have a main model that can be used for all-around skiing and release this as a second or third model, there are also enthusiasts who are so drawn to this unique riding feel that they use it to the fullest as their main ski.When choosing skis, what is more important - specs or design?Both are correct, but ultimately it may be the "riding feel" that matters
*Ski specifications: D (dimension = sidecut), L (length), R (turning radius), T (tail), N (nose)
ATOMIC | BENT CHETLER 120
D=143-120-134mm (184cm) | L=176, 184, 192cm | R=19m (184cm) | 109,890 yen
Chris Venturer's signature board is the largest size of the Atomic line. The modest camber creates a ride that's close to full rocker, and the nose and tail rocker with a 3D underside shape makes it ideal for loose, freestyle riding. The West 100 model is a popular all-rounder. Incidentally, Chris also designs the graphics for each year
https://steep.jp/catalog/atomic/
WAPAN｜I
D=148-122-135mm | L=180, 190cm | R=19m (180cm) | 111,100 yen
This is the largest size from a garage brand that is based on the concept of boards made by Japanese people with the best of Japanese craftsmanship. At 180cm and weighing just 1900g, it is a model that can be used to surf powder not only on the slopes but also at backcountry ski resorts. It is not just gear, nor is it all about specs; its appeal lies in the combination of concept, functionality, and design
https://steep.jp/catalog/wapan/
BLACK CROWS｜NOCTA
D=140-122-132mm (185.5cm) | L=177.6, 185.5, 190.6cm | R=26m (common) | 132,000 yen
Black Crows is known for its sophisticated, modern graphics and the tough, hardcore design that makes it popular with hardcore riders. This fat twin model with a medium flex and near-full rocker offers excellent flotation and handling in deep powder, while the large radius contributes to high-speed stability. The underfoot camber also enhances carving performance
https://www.hasco.co.jp/black-crows/
4FRNT｜RENEGADE
D=137-122-130mm (184cm) | L=184, 191cm | R=30m (common) | 149,600 yen
This is the largest of the four signature models in Erik Gjøleifson's series. It offers a firm flex and torsion that meets the demands of aggressive freeride skiers, and its unique Reflect Tech technology, which matches the sidecut and rocker radius, allows for carving even with a full rocker model
https://steep.jp/catalog/4frnt/
LINE | PESCADO
D=158-125-144mm | L=180cm | R=19.5m | 132,000 yen
This unique model has created a sensation with its outline inspired by surf-like riding and its fishtail that encourages tail stickiness. The 158mm nose width is the widest of the models introduced here, but despite its appearance, it's also comfortable for carving on packed snow. Whether connecting lines or hitting walls, it's a pleasure to turn with such high sensitivity
https://steep.jp/catalog/line/
RMU｜SR 126 BUTTERKNIFE
D=157-126-134mm | L=176cm | R=17m (inside edge), 25m (outside edge) | 105,600 yen
This new model was shaped by Wiley Miller. The concept is inspired by surfing's fishboards, with a thick, short board, and the tail shape is crucial. The wide, long nose rocker creates a tremendous flow even at low speeds, and the asymmetrical sidecut allows it to glide across the snow like butter. This is a limited production model, so it's first come, first served
https://www.caravan-web.com/brand_rmu/
FIELDEARTH｜T9
D=155-128-134mm｜L=168cm｜148,500 yen
Field Earth, based in the Daisetsuzan mountain range of Hokkaido, is known for its exquisite designs. The "T9" is a completely asymmetrical design from the outline to the contact edge. Taking advantage of the 3D shape which allows for excellent snow surface flow, it can be operated seamlessly from powder to groomed snow. In addition, the natural handling characteristic of fiberglass provides a smooth and comfortable feeling.
https://www.fieldearthdesign.com/
VECTOR GLIDE｜GENIUS Standard
D=155-130-140mm｜L=185, 193cm｜R=33.3m (185cm)｜181,500 yen
This big fat Vector Glide model is perfect for wide-open, deep powder. The rocker provides incredible flow, while the pintail provides excellent release in the latter stages of turns, resulting in exceptional maneuverability. It's easy to handle for its volume, and it's effortless to ski on flat ground. Even now, more than 10 years after its release, it remains highly popular
https://steep.jp/catalog/vector-glide/
BLASTRACK | SILVA
D=148-132-139mm｜L=181, 188cm｜R=25.4m (181cm)｜145,200 yen
This big fat model with full rocker delivers impressive volume for deep powder. The asymmetric design is designed with the inside of the foot in mind. Cutting the outside of the nose and tail makes it easier to control the inside foot, which tends to be weak in pushing down. The use of an ultra-light wood core and carbon reduces the weight of the extra-thick body
K2｜PON2OON
D=157-132-112mm｜L=159, 169, 179, 189cm｜R=30m (179cm)｜110,000 yen
This landmark model, born from Shane McConkey's passion and ideas, introduced a rocker structure that took the world of skiing by storm. While it has now settled into a more conventional, extra-thick design, the innovative nature of the original is still highly respected, as evidenced by the number of times it has disappeared and reappeared in the K2 catalog