Let's hear impressions from riders about their favorite gear that they used extensively last winter.
This time, we'll hear from Simon Fujita, who leads the Kandatsu Freeski School, about his favorite skis, boots, and bindings.
Rider Profile
Simon Fujita, 39 years old,
former competitive skier. Currently the head of the Kandatsu Freeski School. Recently works as a commentator and coach.
INDEX
Simon Fujita's setup
Reviewing the entire setup
What kind of places and situations is this setup intended for skating in?
Simon FujitaThis setup is primarily intended for snow park riding both domestically and internationally, playing around with the terrain on the slopes, and powder on the slopes
Can you tell me why you have this setup?
Simon FujitaA light swing weight that won't tire you out even if you wear it for a long time
The moderately soft flex on the top side makes it easy to perform tricks in the snow park and ground tricks using slopes and terrain
The flex is relatively hard from the center to the tail, so it does not compromise performance on packed slopes at overseas ski resorts
In addition, the 90mm width and rocker shape make it easy to ski on ungroomed snow on the slopes
I think it's a highly versatile setup
The moderately soft flex on the top side makes it easy to perform tricks in the snow park and ground tricks using slopes and terrain
The flex is relatively hard from the center to the tail, so it does not compromise performance on packed slopes at overseas ski resorts
In addition, the 90mm width and rocker shape make it easy to ski on ungroomed snow on the slopes
I think it's a highly versatile setup
Ski Impressions
MAJESTY DIRTY BEAR PRO L=171 cm | D=122-90-113 mm | 2022-23 model
What are your impressions of the performance and ride of these skis?
Simon FujitaYou can smoothly switch between intentionally shifting (buttering) and gripping with the edges
The soft flex at the top allows the soft flex in the nose to easily absorb bumps even on rough runs
Torsion works well when turning, providing sticky grip, making it great for riding in half-pipes
The soft flex at the top allows the soft flex in the nose to easily absorb bumps even on rough runs
Torsion works well when turning, providing sticky grip, making it great for riding in half-pipes
What else do you like about the design or special features of these skis?
Simon FujitaAs a board, it has versatile performance without being too sharp
Although it is a relatively lightweight board at 1500g for a 171cm board, it is quite durable
Although it is a relatively lightweight board at 1500g for a 171cm board, it is quite durable
Who would you recommend these skis to?
Simon FujitaThe 90mm width is right in the heart of the current park scene.
It's recommended for everyone from beginners who want to do light and agile tricks like park riding and ground tricks, to advanced riders.
It's recommended for everyone from beginners who want to do light and agile tricks like park riding and ground tricks, to advanced riders.
Boots impressions
What are your impressions of the performance and comfort of these boots?
Simon FujitaThe shell flex is neither too stiff nor too soft, allowing for smooth power transfer to the board when needed.
The hold is just right, preventing foot fatigue even during long rides or hikes.
The hold is just right, preventing foot fatigue even during long rides or hikes.
What else do you like about these boots, such as their design or special features?
Simon FujitaSmooth entry and a perfect fit thanks to the heat-molded inner lining by Intuition
Who do you think these boots are recommended for?
Simon FujitaThe last width is relatively wide at 99mm, so it is recommended for people who do not like slim shells such as Dropkick, ATOMIC, and Dalbello
Binding impressions
What are your impressions of the performance and feel of this binding?
Simon Fujita Even when I put my center of gravity on the nose of my board during freestyle tricks, it stays put. Compared to other companies, the board has a lower center of gravity, making it easier to maneuver. And I think it's relatively lightweight
It doesn't have as strong a vertical release as LOOK, but it's used by top athletes so it's not a problem
For people whose bottles often fall off, it is usually because the pressure at the front of the bottle and the adjustment of the edge are not correct
It doesn't have as strong a vertical release as LOOK, but it's used by top athletes so it's not a problem
For people whose bottles often fall off, it is usually because the pressure at the front of the bottle and the adjustment of the edge are not correct
What else do you like about this binding, such as its design or special features?
Simon FujitaUsed by Jesper. Highly reliable and used by top athletes from around the world in competitions
The brake is integrated, so it is strong and difficult to break. (If it does break, it's a hassle.)
The brake is integrated, so it is strong and difficult to break. (If it does break, it's a hassle.)
Who do you think these bindings are recommended for?
Simon Fujita People who prefer a lower center of gravity setting than the Marker
People who like designs where the heel piece is not too large
People who like designs where the heel piece is not too large
Where should you mount your bindings and why?
Simon FujitaMinus 1.5cm from the center of the board's overall length
A place that maximizes the board's swing weight while ensuring minimum gliding performance
A centered position will make the swing lighter, but the gliding performance will be significantly reduced. By setting the ski back slightly, you can enjoy the gliding performance of the ski
A place that maximizes the board's swing weight while ensuring minimum gliding performance
A centered position will make the swing lighter, but the gliding performance will be significantly reduced. By setting the ski back slightly, you can enjoy the gliding performance of the ski