Let's hear impressions from riders about their favorite gear that they used extensively last winter.
This time, we'll hear about the skis, boots, and bindings that Masato Hirase, who is based in HAKUBA VALLEY and also works as a development tester for BLASTRACK, uses.
Rider Profile
Masato Hirano, 35 years old,
is based in Hakuba and is a dual-threat skier who excels in both freeskiing and telemark skiing. In his younger days, he was an exceptional talent who could jump kickers in telemark skiing. Currently, he works as a BLASTRACK ski tester and is also involved in a wide range of industry activities, including judging freeride and park competitions. He is also active as a development tester for the freeski brand BLASTRACK.
INDEX
Masato Hirase's setup
Reviewing the entire setup
What kind of places and situations is this setup intended for skating in?
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
Can you tell me why you have this setup?
Masato HiraseFirst, since I want to experience a decent sense of speed, I've chosen bindings and boots that are fairly rigid. I can tackle even slightly rough slopes without worry, and power transfer from my body is efficient. On the other hand, the gear is fairly heavy, so I think this setup is probably best suited for men in their 20s and 30s.
The skis aren't particularly strong with metal in them, so I think the bindings and boots allow you to adjust the overall strength and speed range of the gear. The skis are shaped to excel at carving, but because the foot area is wide, you can confidently tilt the skis even in soft powder snow where edge angling is difficult, or in the slushy snow of spring.
The skis aren't particularly strong with metal in them, so I think the bindings and boots allow you to adjust the overall strength and speed range of the gear. The skis are shaped to excel at carving, but because the foot area is wide, you can confidently tilt the skis even in soft powder snow where edge angling is difficult, or in the slushy snow of spring.
Ski Impressions
BLASTRACK FARTHER | L=172cm | D=139-90-117mm | 2023-24 model
What are your impressions of the performance and ride of these skis?
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
What else do you like about the design or special features of these skis?
Masato HiraseThe topsheet features a design that combines mountains and waves. This design perfectly represents a ski capable of conquering the seemingly contradictory situations of carving and powder riding. The overall color scheme is subdued, but the white of the rough waves provides an impactful accent. The
sidewalls are black, giving a sense of solidity and high performance without being overly flashy in terms of color.
The sole also has a simple design, but the rounded logo and the straight lines of the white and black sole express both strength and gentleness
.
sidewalls are black, giving a sense of solidity and high performance without being overly flashy in terms of color.
The sole also has a simple design, but the rounded logo and the straight lines of the white and black sole express both strength and gentleness
.
Who would you recommend these skis to?
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 impressions
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
What else do you like about these boots, such as their design or special features?
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
Who 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
What else do you like about this binding, such as its design or special features?
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
Who do you think these bindings are 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
Where should you mount your bindings 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