This time, we spoke to them about blackcrows, a traditional core brand originating from Chamonix, France, at JSP SNOW EXPO JAPAN 2024 (held February 13-14, 2024 at Pacifico Yokohama)
The theme for blackcrows' 2024-2025 season is "STEP"
As befitting its origins in Chamonix, the kingdom of alpinists, blackcrows is committed to hardcore manufacturing based on its own unique values, with the themes of "skis that perform well in all mountain conditions," "authentic products supported by local ski guides and the mountain community," and "pursuing the joys of life and making everyone smile."
The theme for the 2024-2025 season is "Pursuit of Fun." As in the past, the lineup will be divided into three ranges: "Big Mountain," "Touring," and "All Mountain," and the new graphic direction for next season will be "Step." The graphics have been completely revamped, with three-dimensional steps depicted on each ski, evoking the image of stepping up to ever higher heights
Topics and recommended models for the 2024-2025 season
Corvus - reborn with a new shape and structure
The most notable change is the revamped Corvus. This model can be considered the origin of Blackcrows skis, but it has been reborn with a new shape and construction. It embodies the essence of Blackcrows skis: making turns every day, in any snow condition, and in any location, full of fun and joy. The large shovel and top rocker ensure excellent flotation in powder, while the flat tail and long effective edge provide excellent carving performance. There's no way this wouldn't be fun
The construction uses a thicker wood core, eliminating unnecessary materials to reduce CO₂ emissions. The ABS sidewalls and edges are recycled, and the topsheet uses half the amount of TPU, a plastic resin material. This is a reflection of blackcrows' commitment to sustainable manufacturing
octo - the sibling of the classic "mirus cor"
The Octo, a new addition to the 2024-2025 season, can be considered a sibling to the ever-popular Mirus Cor. With the recent trend of carving gaining popularity, boards with longer effective edges are becoming more popular. The Octo has a similar top shape to the Mirus Cor, but the big difference is that the Octo has a flat tail rather than a twin tip. Its long effective edge provides excellent carving performance and makes it extremely easy to slide around. Weight is also a concern, but the Octo is one of the lightest models from Blackcrows
The 84mm waist is a semi-fat type, and the slight rocker at the top makes it easy to initiate turns. The 14m radius is quite short, allowing for quick edge-to-edge response. It's perfect for quick carving, and is especially great for those who want to enjoy free runs on the slopes and powder on the slopes
octo birdie - Birdie is not just for women, it's birdie
Globally, it would be categorized as a ladies' model, but the Brackcrows Birdie is not a softer model for women; rather, it is still a Birdie. Rather, it is characterized by a firm stiffness, and is popular with those who want a good pedaling feel. In Japan, it is especially popular with men. Considering the difference in physique between Westerners and male skiers, many male skiers find the Birdie a better fit and easier to ride. Its structure and features are almost identical to the Octo
serpo - For skiers who want to pursue carving on the slopes
From the perspective of skiers, the "serpo" is our top pick. With a waist width of 93mm and rocker at the top, it has a medium flex and is extremely easy to handle. This is because the underfoot section has an H-shaped double titanium plate, which strengthens the underfoot and improves grip and responsiveness. With a flat tail shape that is not a twin tip and a long effective edge, it is recommended for those who prioritize gliding and want to pursue solid carving on the slopes
For those who want a bit more fun, who want to switch, slide, and have fun in the park, try Camox. For powder freaks, Amina and Atris are popular
mirus cor - A versatile carving ski that will continue to be the most sought-after
The "mirus cor" model, which has been available since the 2021-2022 season, continues to be a recommended model. It features a thick tip and a distinctive swallowtail. With a narrow waist width of 87mm and a radius of 13m, it has a very maneuverable range, making it a versatile board that can be used on slopes, in the side country, and even in tree runs
Although the waist is narrow, the tip and tail are thick, so it can glide well in powder and is also suitable for slush and buttery movements. The flex is quite soft, so when you step on it, the board sticks to the snow surface and runs smoothly. Another appealing feature is that it can also be used for playing on banks. The swallowtail creates large sprays and is fun to show off. It can be used for a wide range of things, from powder to carving and playful movements, and it is said that this carving ski will continue to be the most popular in the future
Official
website: https://www.hasco.co.jp/black-crows/