Photo: Satoshi Tsujino
ATOMIC has a strong presence not only in alpine racing, which boasts overwhelming strength in the world, but also in the Japanese free ski scene, with top riders such as Tsuyoshi Kodama, Ayana Onozuka, Yu Sasaki, and Gen Sasaki. This time, we asked about the hottest new models of the 2023-2024 season and hot topics at the test drive event hosted by Pro Shop VAIL (March 18-19 at Naeba Ski Resort).
The evolution of the BENT series never stops
The signature model "BENT CHETLER", which has been designed and developed in collaboration with artist and rider Chris Benchetler, has already passed 14 years and continues to evolve.
From the 2021-2022 season when there were only two models, 100mm and 120mm, the next season, the 2022-2023 season saw the introduction of a highly versatile size of 110mm in the middle. In the 2023-2024 season, 90mm and 85mm narrow body widths for park and slopestyle will be added, and the adult lineup will include 5 models, and the BENT CHETLER MINI and BENT JR will be added, bringing the total to 7 models. Become. The lineup has been enhanced with various waist widths, and the 2023-2024 season will be further enhanced as "BENT FAMILY".
The appeal of BENT
The first attraction of "BENT" is "smooth stability that makes you feel as if you are riding a wave". HRZN Tech (except BENT85) in top and tail increases surface area by 10% for increased buoyancy in deep snow without increasing ski width or weight. This should give more openness in the top and tail, allowing for smoother flexibility over natural terrain and improved performance.
The surprisingly lightness of BENT is certified. And while the top and tail have a rocker shape, there is also a vent in the center, and the ski itself is light and very soft, so you can get a lot of contact with the snow when you bend it, and you can also show off the carving element. It's attractive.
And, of course, this graphic. Benchetler's hand-painted artwork has a consistent message of self-expression through art, but the items, touches, colors, etc. drawn every year continue to change skillfully. There is no doubt that it is an attractive piece of art.
You can ski any way you want! You can play! Express yourself! The power of BENT, which has this multi-performance, should fully demonstrate the imagination and creativity of the skier. Anyone who gets excited in front of a pure white snowfield will become a snow artist as good as Chris Benchetler.
▼Explanatory video of the BENT series
Official site: https://atomicsnow.jp/
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