Let's hear impressions from riders about their favorite gear that they used extensively last winter. This time, we'll hear from Kazushige Sekiya, who works as a private guide for inbound tourists in the Hokushin area, about his favorite skis, boots, and bindings.
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
FISCHER RANGER PRO 130 DYN Flex: 130 2023-24 Model
FISCHER ATTACK 14 DIN release value: 10 (used in 2023-24 model)
Reviewing the entire setup
What kind of places and situations is this setup intended for skating in?
Kazushige Sekiya
Outside the backcountry, within the resort
Can you tell me why you have this setup?
Kazushige Sekiya
This 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 of these skis?
Kazushige Sekiya
The 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
What else do you like about the design or special features of these skis?
Kazushige Sekiya
Simple design. Solid twin tip, great for park
Who would you recommend these skis to?
Kazushige Sekiya
Depending 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 impressions
Fischer Ranger Pro 130 Dyn | 2023-24 model
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
What else do you like about these boots, such as their design or special features?
Kazushige Sekiya
It'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
Who do you think these boots are recommended for?
Kazushige Sekiya
This 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
Fischer Attack 14 | 2023-24 model
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
What else do you like about this binding, such as its design or special features?
Kazushige Sekiya
This type of binding is simple and tough, giving you a sense of security
Who do you think these bindings are recommended for?
Kazushige Sekiya
This binding is especially recommended for those who don't go into the backcountry
Where should you mount your bindings and why?
Kazushige Sekiya
I installed it 5mm further forward than the manufacturer recommends, which makes the board feel easier to handle
Kazushige Sekiya