In the middle of the season, manufacturers are already holding exhibitions in various places where new models for the 2023-2024 season will be unveiled. At various places such as the manufacturer's own solo exhibitions, collective trade shows, and test rides on the snow, we asked the manufacturer's PR staff about the hottest new models and hot topics for the 2023-2024 season.
This time, we asked Kogasaka Ski, who boasts a long history and technological prowess, about the Japanese brand BLASTRACK at the "SNOW SPORTS Joint Exhibition" (February 14-15 @ Pacifico Yokohama).
The popular standard model "FARTHER" has evolved further with a full model change!
BLASTRACK's 2023-2024 season's best-selling model is the fully remodeled "FARTHER." Up until now, the slimmer shape of the Blazer was perceived as FARTHER, but this time's full model change is a big change from the Blazer, and in terms of image, it has become the big brother of the ELIXIR, which underwent a full model change in the 2022-23 season. That's what I said. The shape of the nose is also similar to ELIXIR, and it was remade with an image that slightly expanded the range of action of ELIXER.
This time, by adopting a new mold and balance, running performance, stability, and operability have been improved, and this one machine can be used in a variety of snow conditions and terrain, such as compacted snow on the slopes, powder, granulated spring, and various snow conditions and topography. Powered up as a mountain model. It can be said that it has evolved into a model that is very good at long-distance cruising, so-called tours.
A wide body is adopted for the nose to gain buoyancy, and the tail is also slightly raised. It corresponds to speed and straightness. It also incorporates active elements such as jumping on the terrain that is the fun of freeriding, hitting the wall, sliding on the switch, etc., and the finish will satisfy your playfulness. And you can enjoy sharp turns with the flex balance that bends smoothly.
The graphics are inspired by mountains and waves, and the atmosphere is full of free riding.
▼ FARTHER explanation video (BLASTRACK: Mr. Kinoshita in charge of development)
Bumps & Cruising "STYLUS" The stylus has undergone a full model change!
The model "STYLUS", which allows you to enjoy cruising while enjoying bumps, has undergone a full model change. The shape hasn't changed much, but the nose is slightly sharpened and the tail is slightly cut.
The STYLUS has always been known for its excellent response, but with the adoption of a new mold and balance this time, the ski returns extremely well and responds very quickly. It's especially easy to feel in short turns, but even in mid-turns and long turns, it bends quickly and returns with good response when entering the next turn, which leads to a lot of fun.
Response performance alone is not enough to ski well on bumps. Even if you move rhythmically in bumps, you can't attack on the line you want unless you have high stability and operability. The new STYLUS has a narrow waist of 68 mm, a large side cut, and a flex that bends moderately, making it easy to control on bumps. It's easy to experience the feeling of "manipulating yourself" while riding, so it's more fun. The feeling becomes a sense of security even when cruising, and it is very comfortable.
▼Explanation video of STYLUS
"IMPROVE" series brushed up
The all-mountain model "IMPROVE" 93/86 has been brushed up. Although there is no change in the mold, the composition of the contents, mainly graph fiber, has been changed, and the balance has also been tuned. IMPROVE is a model that is originally characterized by flexibility, but next season's model will be even more flexible. As a result, the grip of the foot is further strengthened and finished.
The graphics depict mountains reflected on the surface of the water, creating a somewhat Japanesque atmosphere reminiscent of Kabuki.
IM PROVE 93
The IMPROVE 93 is especially effective on powder rides and coarse snow in spring due to its supple flex and waist width of 93mm. Of course, you can also go backcountry, and on-piste you can play with terrain with confidence because of the stability of your feet.
IM PROVE 86
The IMPROVE 86 has a waist width of 86 mm and large side curves with little resistance, allowing you to shift the skis without losing speed and smoothly switch between edges and surfaces. Especially supported by park users, BLASTRACK riders are fighting the slope style of the world championship and W-CUP with this 86.
▼ Explanation video of IMPROVE
The other 10 models of BLASTRACK will be continued models from the 2022-23 season. BLASTRACK does not release new models every year, but systematically releases new products and updates about every two years. Although the brand is now in its 13th year, it seems that people in the field are realizing that the ways to enjoy each model and the ease of riding this board have spread considerably.
"Users who purchased the BLASTRACK for the first time are satisfied, and second and third riders are enjoying the BLASTRACK's ride even more. I'm very happy. I want to continue making skis that people will enjoy riding on,” said Mr. Kinoshita of BLASTRACK, who attended the exhibition this time.
Official site: https://www.blastrack.jp/
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