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 Kazushige Sekiya, who works as a private guide for inbound tourists in the Hokushin area.
rider profile
Kazushige Sekiya, 43 years old
Born in Obuse, Nagano Prefecture in 1980. Devoted himself to competitive skiing until high school, after graduating he was drawn to the freestyle movement and went to Colorado, USA to study, where he entered the world of freeskiing. Currently based in Kijimadaira Village in Northern Shinshu, he runs SKINAGANO, a private guide service for inbound tourists, while also participating in freeride competitions and taking photographs
Instagram: skinagano
INDEX
Kazushige Sekiya's setup
Review of the entire setup
What kind of places and situations is this setup designed for?
Kazushige SekiyaOutside the backcountry, within the resort
Please tell me why you chose this setup.
Kazushige SekiyaThis setup is suitable for all conditions, from powder to groomed terrain
ski impressions
FISCHER RANGER 102 L=176cm | D=137-102-127mm | 2023-24 model
What are your impressions of the performance and ride quality of this ski?
Kazushige SekiyaThe nose is soft and has a shape that makes it easy to grip the snow surface, making it very easy to initiate turns. This applies to any snow type or situation. The soft flex allows the board to bend cleanly, allowing for smooth turns in deep snow and packed snow. The titanium sheet underfoot provides stability, allowing for stability on hard snow and at high speeds, and the off-road capabilities to run at high speeds with confidence
In addition to that, please let us know what you like about this ski, such as its design or other points.
Kazushige SekiyaSimple design. Solid twin tip, great for park
What kind of people is this ski recommended for?
Kazushige SekiyaDepending on the length you choose, it can be enjoyed by intermediate female skiers to expert male skiers. The 162cm length is also enjoyable for intermediate female skiers
boots impression
What are your impressions of the performance and comfort of these boots?
Kazushige Sekiya The lower shell is firm, and the upper shell is soft, making it easy to use around the ankle, so the range of motion is wide. Therefore, it can flexibly respond to all conditions
In addition to that, please tell us what you like about these boots, such as the design or one point.
Kazushige SekiyaIt's light and the color is sophisticated. It's hard to tell from the catalog, but when you hold it in your hands, the color is exquisite and it's received good reviews from people around me
What kind of people do you think these boots are recommended for?
Kazushige SekiyaThis board is designed for advanced skiers who enjoy backcountry skiing. It's also suitable for non-advanced skiers, as long as you choose the flex appropriate for your level and weight. Flex options include 120, 110, and 105
Binding impressions
What are your impressions of the performance and feel of this binding?
Kazushige Sekiya The front and back are separate, so the board bends nicely
In addition to that, please let us know what you like about this binding, such as its design or other points.
Kazushige SekiyaThis type of binding is simple and tough, giving you a sense of security
What kind of people do you think this binding is recommended for?
Kazushige Sekiya This binding is especially recommended for those who don't go into the backcountry
Please tell me where to install the binding and why.
Kazushige SekiyaI installed it 5mm further forward than the manufacturer recommends, which makes the board feel easier to handle