Spring season is upon us, and manufacturers are announcing new models for the upcoming 2024-2025 season one after another at exhibitions and test drive events. We asked about "BLASTRACK" by Ogasaka Ski, a long-established Japanese manufacturer that boasts a long history and high technological capabilities, at "JSP SNOW EXPO JAPAN 2024" (held February 13-14, 2024 @ Pacifico Yokohama).
For the '24-25 season, we have changed the component materials and balance for 6 models!
For the '24-25 season, we have changed the constituent materials used in the structure of the skis in six models in the BLASTRACK lineup and adopted a new balance. Although the outward appearance, such as the outline of the shape, has not changed, it can be said that the operability and ride feel have been significantly updated due to the internal tuning.
When I asked Mr. Kinoshita, a BLASTRACK development staff member, to dig a little deeper, he revealed that the material that had changed was mainly glass fiber. BLASTRACK's development engineers believe that the construction material is the second most important material after the ski core material. Compared to the current model, next season's model uses glass fiber that is slightly stronger in the bending and twisting directions.
This is because, as a manufacturer, we are always striving to improve running performance, stability, and the enjoyment of skiing. By changing the material, we tested on the snow every day to see if we could improve the performance and ride comfort, and the result was the adoption of strong glass fiber for next season.
In addition, in early spring, the snow tends to become loose, but in order to ensure that you can enjoy the season for a long time, we have increased the rigidity of the skis so that you can enjoy skiing to the fullest with peace of mind and stability even on rough slopes. Increasing rigidity naturally affects maneuverability, and generally makes it a little difficult to initiate turns, but in BLASTRACK, we emphasize maneuverability while increasing rigidity. That's why we're changing the balance. Since the way a ski bends changes depending on its thickness, it is effective to partially adjust the thickness of the ski to change the balance. It is said that by making these exquisite adjustments to the balance, they have achieved the desired ride quality for each model.
At first glance, it may appear that only the graphic changes have been made, but with the internal tuning updates, the 2024-25 model has evolved even further. Among them, we have selected and introduced models that are particularly noteworthy for the 2024-25 season.
Fully remodeled “MASSIVE106”」
The MASSIVE 106, which is popular for its ease of handling even in deep powder, has been narrowed down to a mid-fat 106mm, making it a top pick for the 2024-25 season.
An all-mountain model that allows you to enjoy everything from powder to backcountry, ski slope carving, and park riding.
The origin of the full model change is to review the flex balance and increase the rigidity of the nose area in particular. By changing the constituent materials, it exhibits high stability and running performance even on rough roads and hard snow surfaces. It provides good buoyancy in powder and allows for quick turns, making it perfect for tree runs after snowfall. With the compacted snow, you can make sharp turns at high speeds, and cruising the slopes is fun.
The graphics also feature a snowy mountain motif, giving it a moist and gorgeous texture. This is perfect for greedy skiers, as you can enjoy all kinds of situations over a long season with this one skier.
The BLAZER series has been reborn with improved precision for each application.
The BLAZER series has three models: the all-round model "BLAZER", the "BLAZER TOUR" for tour skis, and the even lighter "BLAZER LT", but all three models are fully equipped for the 2024-25 season. Model change. The graphics have been redesigned, but the content has also changed significantly. The outline of the shape is the same as previous models, but the material inside has been changed and the flex balance has been adjusted. This resulted in a change in the ride taste.
The BLAZER, which is characterized by its 97mm waist width and long nose, is an all-rounder that can handle everything from the slopes to the backcountry, from powder to the grooming barn. Improved. You'll be able to enjoy more aggressive skiing than ever before, as you can fly safely in a variety of situations.
Although ``BLAZER TOUR'' is lightweight, it has an increased sense of stability, and the ski does not flap around even on rough roads, improving the comfort of skiing. The result is a high-level combination of ``mobility'' and ``gliding ability,'' which are the missions of touring models. Furthermore, the ultra-lightweight BLAZER LT has increased grip underfoot, making it easier to transmit power and improve controllability. It is surprisingly light and has the advantage of being able to climb for long periods of time without getting tired, but it has also improved its glide performance, making it a welcome evolution.
「FARTHER” now has a new length of 178cm
``FARTHER'', one of the classic games in BLASTRACK, is a work that the development team has put a lot of effort into. Last season, it was very well received, and everyone said it was their favorite car to ride. The '24-25 season model adds a new length of 178cm.
I'm confident that in early spring, when there's not much snow like this season, you'll be able to enjoy it easily even with the rough snow. In fact, this FARTHER was said to be the most popular at the Dream Gate test drive event held in Naeba from March 17th to 18th.
Pay attention to BLASTRACK's backcountry poles
One of the hot topics for the 2024-25 season is the backcountry pole, which was jointly developed with the prestigious pole brand SHINANO.
The main feature is the T-grip grip. It fits naturally in the palm of your hand and is easy to grip, and the wide T-shaped surface easily transmits force, making it very easy to climb. He says he doesn't feel stressed even after climbing for two and three hours. It has a 3-tier configuration, but all three parts are made of high-strength aluminum. The durability is outstanding. The lock part is a fast lock that is easy to handle, and has reliable strength and convenient lightness. Of course, when gliding, it can be folded compactly and stored in a backpack.
If you have BLASTRACK skis, you'll want to get matching poles as well.
BLASTRACK 24-25 New Model TEST RIDE
BLASTRACK's annual test drive event for next season's 2024-25 model started on February 15th, but there are still other venues that will hold it after this. Both are opportunities to test drive popular new models for free. All test drives are free. Opening times vary by venue, so check the official website.
| Event schedule | venue |
| March 23rd (Sat) - 24th (Sun), 2024 | Madarao Kogen Ski Resort |
| April 6th (Sat) - 8th (Mon), 2024 | Hakuba Happoone Ski Resort |
| 2024 ・March 21st (Thursday), 28th (Thursday) , April 4th (Thursday) | Sapporo International Ski Resort |
| April 12th (Friday) - 14th (Sunday), 2024 | Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort |
◆Details
https://www.blastrack.jp/news/
Information
official website: https://www.blastrack.jp/
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