We asked riders to share their impressions of the gear they used to the fullest last winter.
This time, we looked at the skis, boots, and bindings used by Masato Hirase, who is based in HAKUBA VALLEY and also works as a development tester for BLASTRACK.
rider profile
Masato Hirano, 35,
is a dual-wielding freeskier and telemark skier based in Hakuba. He was once a prodigy who flew down kickers in telemark skiing. He currently works as a BLASTRACK ski tester and is involved in a wide range of industry activities, including judging freeride and park competitions. He also works as a development tester for the freeski brand BLASTRACK.
INDEX
Mato Hirase's setup
Review of the entire setup
What kind of places and situations is this setup designed for?
Masato HiraseWith touring bindings, these skis are perfectly suitable for spring backcountry skiing, but this time we chose separate bindings and set them up for on-piste use. On the slopes, you can enjoy everything from deep carving in the morning to ungroomed areas, and even powder on the slopes when it snows, all with just one ski
Please tell me why you chose this setup.
Masato HiraseFirst of all, I want to enjoy a decent sense of speed, so I chose a rigid model for the bindings and boots. I can charge into slightly rough runs without worrying, and the power from my body is transmitted without any loss. On the other hand, the gear is quite heavy, so I think this setup is best suited to men in their 20s and 30s.
The skis are not very strong with metal in them, so I think the bindings and boots will allow me to adjust the overall strength and speed range of the gear. The skis are designed for carving, but because the base is wide, I can boldly stand the skis upright in soft powder snow that is difficult to angle, or in spring granular snow.
The skis are not very strong with metal in them, so I think the bindings and boots will allow me to adjust the overall strength and speed range of the gear. The skis are designed for carving, but because the base is wide, I can boldly stand the skis upright in soft powder snow that is difficult to angle, or in spring granular snow.
ski impressions
BLASTRACK FARTHER | L=172cm | D=139-90-117mm | 2023-24 model
What are your impressions of the performance and ride quality of this ski?
Masato HiraseYou can ski from deep carving to powder. The skis are metal-free and have a moderate flex, so you can also perform fine control
I also think you won't feel tired even if you ski for a long time
I also think you won't feel tired even if you ski for a long time
In addition to that, please let us know what you like about this ski, such as its design or other points.
Masato HiraseThe top sheet features a design that combines mountains and waves. This design truly represents skis that can handle the opposing situations of carving and powder riding, and while the overall color is calm, the white of the rough waves is a striking accent. The
sidewalls are black, which subdues the color but still gives off a sense of solidity that shows high performance.
The sole is also a simple design, but the rounded logo design and the linear change between white and black sole express both strength and gentleness
.
sidewalls are black, which subdues the color but still gives off a sense of solidity that shows high performance.
The sole is also a simple design, but the rounded logo design and the linear change between white and black sole express both strength and gentleness
.
What kind of people is this ski recommended for?
Masato HiraseRecommended for those who want to use the slopes in an all-round way
The skis are fairly wide, so you'll need to get used to moguls, but they can handle any other environment
Another feature is that the skis move when turning
The skis are fairly wide, so you'll need to get used to moguls, but they can handle any other environment
Another feature is that the skis move when turning
boots impression
What are your impressions of the performance and comfort of these boots?
Masato HiraseWhile the boots are sturdy, they are also suitable for freeriding, with cushioning to absorb the impact of jumps and a comfortable fit. The thermo inner keeps the inside of the boots warm even in cold environments, allowing you to ski for long periods of time
In addition to that, please tell us what you like about these boots, such as the design or one point.
Masato HiraseThe new DALBELLO series has a subdued color scheme, but the design expresses high performance. I think these boots are a perfect match for the skis I wear
What kind of people do you think these boots are recommended for?
Masato HiraseThe flex is on the stiffer side, so it's recommended for men in their 20s and 30s who have the stamina and skill to handle the club. If you're unsure, you can choose a lower flex
There are also female models available, so if you are a woman or have short legs or are short in stature, I think the female model is definitely an option
There are also female models available, so if you are a woman or have short legs or are short in stature, I think the female model is definitely an option
Binding impressions
What are your impressions of the performance and feel of this binding?
Masato HiraseAlthough they are a little heavy, these bindings offer an excellent sense of power transmission to the skis. Anyone who has used these bindings will feel the sense of stability when increasing speed. Another notable feature is the sense of unity you feel the moment you put your boots into the bindings
These bindings are not available at test ride events, so there aren't many opportunities to try them out, but if you're physically fit, I'd definitely recommend them. However, bindings with lower release values, such as Squier and Griffon, are also very high quality, so I think it's best to choose one that suits your physical strength and speed range
These bindings are not available at test ride events, so there aren't many opportunities to try them out, but if you're physically fit, I'd definitely recommend them. However, bindings with lower release values, such as Squier and Griffon, are also very high quality, so I think it's best to choose one that suits your physical strength and speed range
In addition to that, please let us know what you like about this binding, such as its design or other points.
Masato HiraseIt comes in several colors, so you can match it with your skis, boots, and clothing
Since it's a valuable tool, you want to pay attention to its appearance
Since it's a valuable tool, you want to pay attention to its appearance
What kind of people do you think this binding is recommended for?
Masato HiraseFirst of all, you need to be reasonably physically fit
Bindings with low release values are also of high quality, so please choose one based on your physical strength and speed range
Bindings with low release values are also of high quality, so please choose one based on your physical strength and speed range
Please tell me where to install the binding and why.
Masato HiraseAlign the boot center with the position indicated on the ski. The reason is that there is no reason to deviate from the boot center position determined by the manufacturer's testing
I mainly ski in the park, and if I'm in a situation where it's best to set the ski as close to the center as possible, I set it further forward
I mainly ski in the park, and if I'm in a situation where it's best to set the ski as close to the center as possible, I set it further forward