Let's ask riders to share their impressions on their favorite gear that they used to the fullest last winter.
This time, we will introduce the favorite skis, boots, and bindings of Masato Hirase, who is also a development tester for BLASTRACK based on HAKUBAVALLEY.
rider profile
Masato Hirano 35 years old
A dual-skilled freeskier and telemark skier based in Hakuba. He used to be a telemark kicker and had a unique talent. While currently working as a BLASTRACK ski tester, he also works as a judge in freeride and park competitions, and is widely involved in the industry. He is also active as a development tester for the freeski brand BLASTRACK.
INDEX
Mato Hirase's setup
Review of the entire setup
What kind of places and situations is this setup designed for?
If you use the tour type bindings, this ski can be used for spring backcountry skis, but this time I used separate bindings and set it up for use on the slopes. On the slopes, you can enjoy everything from deep carving in the morning to areas with uncompacted snow, and even powder on the slopes when it snows.
Please tell me why you chose this setup.
First of all, I want to experience a decent sense of speed, so I use rigid models for the bindings and boots.
You can drive into the rough terrain without worrying, and the power is transmitted from the body without any loss. On the other hand, the weight of the gear is quite heavy, so I think this setting is suitable for men in their 20s to 30s. Since skis are not strong metal items, I think you can adjust the overall strength and speed range of the gear with the bindings and boots.
The shape of the ski is good for carving, but the wide foot area allows you to stand up skis on soft powder snow that is difficult to sharpen, or on coarse spring snow.
You can drive into the rough terrain without worrying, and the power is transmitted from the body without any loss. On the other hand, the weight of the gear is quite heavy, so I think this setting is suitable for men in their 20s to 30s. Since skis are not strong metal items, I think you can adjust the overall strength and speed range of the gear with the bindings and boots.
The shape of the ski is good for carving, but the wide foot area allows you to stand up skis on soft powder snow that is difficult to sharpen, or on coarse spring snow.
ski impressions
BLASTRACK FARTHER | L=172cm | D=139-90-117mm | 2023-24 model
What are your impressions of the performance and ride quality of this ski?
You can ski from deep carvings to powder. The skis do not use metal and have a flex that is not too strong, so you can make detailed movements.
I think you won't feel tired even if you ski for a long time.
I think you won't feel tired even if you ski for a long time.
In addition to that, please let us know what you like about this ski, such as its design or other points.
The top sheet has a design that combines mountains and waves.
The design truly represents a ski that can handle the contradictory situations of carving and powder riding, and while the overall color is calm, the white color of the rough waves is the focal point for an impactful color. The sidewalls are black, giving a solid feel that shows off the high performance while suppressing the color statement.
The sole has a simple design, but the rounded logo design and the straight cut of the white and black sole express both strength and gentleness
.
The design truly represents a ski that can handle the contradictory situations of carving and powder riding, and while the overall color is calm, the white color of the rough waves is the focal point for an impactful color. The sidewalls are black, giving a solid feel that shows off the high performance while suppressing the color statement.
The sole has a simple design, but the rounded logo design and the straight cut of the white and black sole express both strength and gentleness
.
What kind of people is this ski recommended for?
Recommended for those who want to use the slopes for all-round use.
The ski has a fair width, so you need to get used to the bumps, but it handles all other conditions.
Another feature is that the ski moves to enter the turn.
The ski has a fair width, so you need to get used to the bumps, but it handles all other conditions.
Another feature is that the ski moves to enter the turn.
boots impression
What are your impressions of the performance and comfort of these boots?
Although the boots are stiff, they are suitable for freeriding and have cushioning that cushions the impact of jumps, as well as a good fit. The thermo-inner properties keep the inside of the boots somewhat warm even in cold environments, allowing you to skate for long periods of time.
In addition to that, please tell us what you like about these boots, such as the design or one point.
DALBELLO's NEW series has a design that expresses high performance while having subdued colors. I think these boots are a perfect match for the skis I wear.
What kind of people do you think these boots are recommended for?
The flex is stiff, so it is recommended for men in their 20s to 30s who have physical strength and skill. If you are unsure, please choose a lower flex.
Also, there are female models, so if you are a woman or have short legs or height, I think you have a choice of female models.
Also, there are female models, so if you are a woman or have short legs or height, I think you have a choice of female models.
Binding impressions
What are your impressions of the performance and feel of this binding?
Although it feels a little heavy, it is still a binding with excellent transmission to the ski. Anyone who uses this binding will feel the sense of stability when increasing speed. It also features a sense of unity that you can feel the moment you put the boots into the binding.
It's a binding that doesn't come out at test ride events, so I don't have many opportunities to try it out, but if you're physically fit, it's definitely a binding you should try. However, bindings with low opening values such as Squier and Griffon are also of fairly high quality, so I think it would be best to choose one that suits your physical strength and speed range.
It's a binding that doesn't come out at test ride events, so I don't have many opportunities to try it out, but if you're physically fit, it's definitely a binding you should try. However, bindings with low opening values such as Squier and Griffon are also of fairly high quality, so I think it would be best to choose one that suits your physical strength and speed range.
In addition to that, please let us know what you like about this binding, such as its design or other points.
It comes in several colors, so it's nice to be able to match it with your skis, boots, and clothing.
Since it is a precious tool, I want to pay attention to its appearance.
Since it is a precious tool, I want to pay attention to its appearance.
What kind of people do you think this binding is recommended for?
First of all, those who are physically fit.
Bindings with low opening values are also of high quality, so choose one based on your physical strength and speed range.
Bindings with low opening values are also of high quality, so choose one based on your physical strength and speed range.
Please tell me where to install the binding and why.
Match the boot center indicated on the ski. The reason is that there is no reason to shift the position of the boot center after testing by the manufacturer.
If you are mainly skiing in the park and are skiing in a situation where it is better to set the ski in the middle of the ski, then set it forward.
If you are mainly skiing in the park and are skiing in a situation where it is better to set the ski in the middle of the ski, then set it forward.