'24-25 Which ski "freeride model" is recommended by the pro shop?

Pro shop staff have a strong ability to discern quality products by looking across a variety of brands, test riding them on snow themselves, and accumulating feedback from users. So, we would like to ask you to tell us about the ``skis you would like to recommend'' from the new models of freeride skis for the 2024-25 season. If you're interested in several new models but can't decide on which one to go for, or if you'd prefer one that has been highly rated by professionals, this is a great reference!

*All prices shown include consumption tax.

ARMADA｜ARV94

◆ Official HP / https://armadaskis.jp/

It is a ski that mainly follows the slopes to the park and side country. With the perfect shape and just the right amount of flex for skiing on the slopes or in the park, I think this ski is suitable for a variety of skiing styles and for a variety of skiers! From freeride to freestyle, this ski is perfect for anything!

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ATOMIC｜BACKLAND 102

◆ Official HP / https://atomicsnow.jp/

A freeride ski designed for use in the backcountry. It is a ski that satisfies two conditions: it is lightweight, so it is easy to use for backcountry activities such as hiking, and it can ski well in any situation.

These two conditions seem to be the latest trends in freeride skis. In fact, I learned backcountry riding with the first-generation BACKLAND100 and used it for over 5 years, switching to Telemark!

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ATOMIC｜BACKLAND109

◆ Official HP / https://atomicsnow.jp/

"BACKLAND109" has appeared in the '24-25 season. Compared to last year's model "BACKLAND107", the waist width is a little thicker, the top shape is slightly thinner, and the 3D structure increases buoyancy. Compared to the 107, the weight is not much different, but it feels lighter due to good balance, and it is very easy to maneuver, and maneuverability in deep snow was very good.

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blackcrows ｜Solis

◆Official website/ https://www.hasco.co.jp/black-crows/

Even if you are a free skier who usually skis loosely, it would be a good idea to have at least one orthodox ski that is responsive. If you're in a bad position, you won't be able to ride this board well, but if you try hard, you'll naturally become better at skiing. Then, even if you switch to a different ski later on, you should be able to bring out the potential of that board even more.

For advanced skiers with a good position and a certain amount of power, this is the best all-mountain ski with a high speed range. In addition to the beautifully groomed slopes and powder, I'd like you to take it to the next level on the rough, slip-strewn slopes of the afternoon.

Regarding the length, I would like men to choose 180cm if possible, but depending on your physique and skill, you may need to size down for safety reasons.

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CANDIDE SKIS｜BC111

◆Official website/ https://www.candide.co/

The 1mm camber provides solid edging on the slopes, and the 111mm waist width provides buoyancy even in powder. The effective edge is shortened due to the twin tip effect, so even if you choose a longer one, it will not be too long. It is sure to be loved by many skiers, including those who cruise the slopes, those who want to attack the side country, and those who want to play with the terrain!

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CANDIDE SKIS｜RESORT101

◆Official website/ https://www.candide.co/

CANDIDE SKIS was not launched for the '23-24 season, so unfortunately we were not able to introduce it in this project, but it actually received good reviews from users at test ride events, and we have a steady stream of reservations. Ta. This is the original brand of the well-known super freeskier Candede Thovex.

It is similar to the FACTION CT series, which Candide was involved in developing for many years. Candede's skating proves his high potential. However, it is extremely high-end and not difficult to handle, and it is amazing that it is so versatile that anyone can ride it to their satisfaction! ``RESORT 101'' is perfect as an all-round free ski, from park skis to light powder skis!

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DPS｜CARBON WAILER 107

◆Official website/ https://www.dpsskis.com/

Domestic sales of this DPS went blank last season, but it will be back in '24-25. In addition to "KAIZEN" launched in '23-24, "CARBON WAILER 107" is now available with the revival of the traditional (legendary) Wiler shape for the '24-25 season!

Furthermore, we use a lot of bio-based materials and adhesives. Although it is a next-generation ski, it has an old-fashioned ride feel, making it an all-mountain ski in the truest sense of the word. This skiing is really fun! There are also 3 waist sizes: 90/100/107. Please choose according to your purpose and preference! !

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ELAN ｜RIPSTICK 102 BLACK EDITION

◆ Official HP / https://www.elanjapan.co.jp/

``RIPSTICK BLACKEDITION'' is a special edition ski that uses more carbon than the RIPSTICK series, which has a wide range of protection against snow conditions, and adds aggressiveness and running performance to its adaptability.
Mountains are a field that is greatly influenced by external influences and has a wide variety of snow quality. There are various conditions such as slippery snow and non-slip snow. On the other hand, the characteristic of the RIPSTICK series is that it is not affected by the characteristics of the board under any circumstances and does not feel slippery, and its biggest advantage is its ``wide range of protection''.

One of the features of "RIPSTICK BLACKEDITION" is that it uses more carbon material than the standard model, but it has almost no sharpness or flapping feeling that is characteristic of carbon. To put it in an extreme way, it's "carbon skis that look like metal skis." I think this expression would be appropriate.

There are not many skis that can provide this feeling. As for compatibility with bindings, there is no problem with both the tech type and frame type, but since it is a ski that feels great when grooming on the slopes, a type of heel piece with less edge would be better compatible.

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FACTION｜LA MACHINE 4

◆ Official HP / https://jp.factionskis.com/

One that is lightweight and nimble, yet also has a sliding response. You can also enjoy terrain play. Although it is classified in the backcountry category in the manufacturer's catalog, it can be used in any situation, from ski slopes to sidecountry. It's stable from medium to low speeds to high speeds, and is easy to handle without any quirks, so I think it's a ski that everyone will be satisfied with, regardless of the skill level of the skier.

The matching boots and bindings are of course suitable for tour settings, and also suitable for slip-oriented mode. You may be wondering whether to turn up the volume and choose "La Machine 5," but please think of your favorite courses and faces before making your decision.

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FACTION ｜ STUDIO 2

◆ Official HP / https://jp.factionskis.com/

I want to play borderless on the slopes! Making skiers' dreams come true is what FACTION skis is good at. ``STUDIO 2'' not only has a 102mm waist that can be used in a variety of conditions, but also has the strongest specs, including carbon and shock absorption, so it will be able to handle everything from riders jumping into the snow! ︎

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FISCHER｜RANGER96

◆Official website/ https://www.goldwin.co.jp/fischer/

The quick reaction of turning is demonstrated not only on the slopes but also in powder. My impression is that the ease of entering turns is extremely good. From the middle to the second half of the turn, you can complete turns with a sense of stability without slowing down.

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KASTLE｜PARAGON 101

◆ Official HP / https://www.kaestle.com/jp/

The popular FX series has undergone a complete model change, and Kessle's attention-grabbing front side all-mountain ski. Kessle's unique Symbiocore structure, Hollowtech with excellent vibration absorption, and Freeride Rocker provide buoyancy and turning performance on soft snow, and comfortable glide performance even on grooming burns. I think it's a very well-balanced and excellent ski.

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K2｜MINDBENDER 106C

◆Official website/ https://elevateoutdoorcollective.com/

Freeride model "MINDBENDER" series. There are titanium and carbon models, but the characteristic of carbon is that the plate bends flexibly. You can easily handle it without having to push hard with power. An all-around ski that can be used for both powder and slopes in one season. The center waist size of 106 is also just the right size.

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K2｜RECKONER 92

◆Official website/ https://elevateoutdoorcollective.com/

Skis are light and soft, making them easy to handle and require no force at all to operate. It is easy to control carving and shifting, and has a good width, so it can be used in a variety of conditions.

As a modern standard free ski, I think it's perfect for families who ski several times a year or for leisure people to enjoy while playing around the courses on the slopes. It is also attractive that the price is relatively reasonable. If you know someone who is a core skier and wants to start, I would definitely recommend this ski to them.

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LINE｜CHRONIC 94

◆Official website/ https://elevateoutdoorcollective.com/

LNE's main model "CHRONIC" was significantly renewed in the 2023-24 season. This ``CHRONIC 94'' has standard specifications and has an exquisite balance of slippery and playability. The R setting is relatively small, so you can easily start carving. This board is also recommended for people who want something classic and all-around for a week. This is a ski that can be used for both free runs and tricks.

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LINE ｜VISION114

◆Official website/ https://elevateoutdoorcollective.com/

A lightweight freeride model among LINE SKI. One of its attractions is that it is not only light, but also has good sliding performance. There are many lightweight skis, but some skis that are specifically made to be lightweight have concerns about skiing. VISION is lightweight while maintaining high glide performance, making it ideal not only for the slopes but also for backcountry skiing where various snow conditions are expected. Also, the twin tip shape allows for park rides. It is also worth noting that the side cut has been completely redesigned for the 2024-25 season and will be introduced as a new model.

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RMU｜PROFESSOR 111

◆Official website/ https://www.caravan-web.com/brand_rmu/

We are a ski manufacturer that started out as a garage brand, but our current products have evolved into highly accurate products. This season's recommended new model from RMU is "PROFESSOR111". It's a very fun ski in the popular BC freestyle genre. Although it is basically a ski for powder, it has a twin-tip-like top and tail rocker shape that makes it easy to move in all kinds of snow, and it is a versatile ski that can be used for tricks and jumps, although it can be skied firmly. You can enjoy the mountain terrain to the fullest!

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SCOTT｜SEA108

◆ Official HP / https://www.scott-sports.com/jp/ja/

Although skis may not be widely distributed in Japan, the ride itself is quite smooth and has an elegant taste. The flex torque itself is neither too weak nor too strong, making this ski recommended for a wide range of users.

The ride quality can be described as ``mild,'' and this is a ski that anyone other than those who are looking for a ski with sharpness should give this ski a try. Regarding combinations with bindings, there will be no problems with either tech type or frame type.

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ROSSIGNOL｜SENDER SOUL 102

◆ Official HP / https://rossignol.co.jp/

Great for freeride skiing! Stable skiing is possible from ski slope carving to sides, from powder to bad snow. The titanium plate in the feet improves stability and edge grip. Some people may feel that the center 102mm is a little thick, but I think they will be able to skate without worrying! This is an excellent product that can be used from the slopes to off-piste with just one unit! !

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VAN DEER-Red Bull Sports | FREERIDE 98

◆Official website/ https://vandeer-redbull-sports.com/

"VAN DEER-Red Bull Sports" was produced by Marcel Hirscher, the absolute champion of alpine skiing. The "FREERIDE 98" is one of Hilscher's favorite models, and is a ski with outstanding floatability in powder, grip on hard burns, maneuverability, and stability. Like race skis, everything from the wood core to the manufacturing process is finished in the race room, making it an all-mountain freeride ski perfect for off-piste skiing near the slopes and on-piste freeriding.

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VECTOR GLIDE｜POLARVE LIGHT

◆ Official HP / https://www.vectorglide-japan.com/

Lightweight model without metal. With its light maneuverability and flexible deflection, you can enjoy the terrain. It has perfect grip and is an almighty ski that can be enjoyed even on the slopes.

VECTER GLIDE will be available at Mt.Peaks from the '24-25 season. Among them, we recommend "POLARVE LIGHT". The STANDARD is made of metal and has a sturdy feel, but the LIGHT is mainly composed of a wood core, making it easier to feel the bend of the board. I'm sure many skiers, regardless of gender, will be captivated by the lightness of this ski on tree runs.

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VÖLKL｜REVOLT 121

◆Official website/ https://elevateoutdoorcollective.com/

Because it is thick, it has a sense of stability in powder and has high glide on leveling! If you recommend the binding position, you can also perform freestyle movements, so it is an all-rounder even though it is a BC main machine!

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VÖLKL｜BLAZE104

◆Official website/ https://elevateoutdoorcollective.com/

The waist width is a little narrower than the '23-24 model, and the shape of the metal in the feet has been changed. Even on tight roads, the grip under your feet is firm, giving you a sense of security. This is a ski that can handle a variety of snow conditions with just one ski.