With the high season in full swing, manufacturers and pro shops are holding test rides of the latest ski models for the 2026-2027 season one after another. Test rides of new ski models are a valuable opportunity to try out new gear early on. Here is a summary of the test ride events that have been announced so far. We will introduce them in order of the most recent
STEEP | Ski test ride event "SKI DIG"
"STEEP" is holding its first ever ski test ride event! It's called "SKI DIG." Experience the joy of choosing from a wide variety of brands, testing them out on the snow, and finding the perfect pair that resonates with your body and senses. Just like digging up your favorite record at a record store, you'll have plenty of time to discover and enjoy a pair of skis. This winter's new ski event, " SKI DIG ,
" . A total of 45 brands will be gathered, offering not only hard gear like skis, boots, and bindings, but also soft goods like goggles and backcountry gear. In addition to the '26-27 NEW MODEL test ride exhibition and test ride event, there will also be original SKI DIG merchandise for sale.
Be sure to check out the event's official social media! https://www.instagram.com/ski.dig
"SKI DIG" Event Details
・Participation fee: ¥1,500 with priority entry *1 hour from 9:00-10:00 / Limited to 50 people, advance
reservation ¥1,000 / on the day ¥1,500
*A separate system usage fee of ¥200 will be charged for each ticket.
| Event Schedule | time | venue |
|---|---|---|
| March 7th (Sat) – 8th (Sun), 2026 | 10:00-16:00 *Priority admission is limited to 50 people between 9:00 and 10:00 | Kashimayari Ski Resort Family Park, Nagano Prefecture |
◆For details and applications,
please visit https://skidig.peatix.com/view
◆List of exhibiting brands
BLASTRACK｜26-27 NEW MODEL BLASTRACK Test Ride
BLASTRACK, which held test ride events for its current 2025-2026 models in various locations until early February, will begin test ride events for the long-awaited 2026-2027 models from February 14th. Test rides of the hot new models will be available for free (fees apply for the JSP_SKI FORUM ON SNOW on February 14th and 15th). There will be six locations in total, all of which are ski resorts renowned for their high-quality powder. This is the perfect opportunity to test the true value of BLASTRACK's freeride models
"26-27 NEW MODEL BLASTRACK Test Ride" Event Details
・Participation Fee: Free (February 14-15 JSP SKI FORUM ON SNOW 2026 only requires a fee)
・Present your ID to staff at the BLASTRACK tent on the day of the event
・Present your ID to staff at the BLASTRACK tent on the day of the event
・Present your ID to staff at the BLASTRACK tent on the day of the event
| Event Schedule | time | venue |
|---|---|---|
| February 14th (Sat) - 15th (Sun), 2026 | 8:30-15:00 | JSP SKI FORUM ON SNOW 2026 (hosted by JSP) Sugadaira Kogen Snow Resort, Urataro Slope, Nagano Prefecture |
| February 14th (Sat) - 15th (Sun), 2026 | 10:00-14:30 | Tangram Madarao, Nagano Prefecture |
| Thursday, February 19th, Thursday, February 26th, Thursday, March 5th, Thursday, March 12th, Thursday, 19th, Thursday, February 26th, Thursday, April 2nd, | 10:00-13:00 | Sapporo International Ski Resort, Hokkaido |
| February 21st (Sat) - 22nd (Sun), 2026 | 9:30-14:30 (until 14:00 on the last day) | Suhara Ski Resort, Niigata Prefecture |
| March 14th (Sat) - 15th (Sun), 2026 | 9:30-14:30 (until 14:00 on the last day) | Madarao Kogen Ski Resort, Nagano Prefecture |
| March 28th (Sat) - 29th (Sun), 2026 | 9:30-14:30 (until 14:00 on the last day) | Shiga Kogen Yakebitaiyama Ski Resort, Nagano Prefecture |
◆Details and applications
: https://www.blastrack.jp/news-2/
*Alphabetical order
SKI&OUTDOOR Mt.Peaks | 2026-2027 NEW MODEL TEST RIDE
Located in Kichijoji, Tokyo, SKI&OUTDOOR Mt.Peaks offers a wide selection of popular brands, from backcountry and freestyle to basic and all-around skis, all of which are available at specialty stores. Starting this season, they also carry snowboards
Mt.Peaks' test ride events cover a wide range of test ride genres, including racing, demo, all-mountain, freeskiing, and powder. The staff, who have ample expertise, will kindly and carefully attend to you, and the homey atmosphere is also popular. It's the perfect opportunity to compare a wide range of brands and categories. It's rumored that applications are flooded every year, so we recommend applying in advance
"Mt.Peaks 2026-2027 New Model Test Ride" Event Details
・Fee: Advance reservations are free, same-day reservations are 1,000 yen
・Reservations: Apply at Mt.Peaks or by email (application deadline 2/22)
Email applications [Email: mt.peaks@arigaen.co.jp]
Required information for email applications: Name, address, contact information (both home and mobile), age, and test ride participation date. If these required information is not filled in, the application will be invalid.
・Lift ticket discount: Weekends and holidays: Adults, usual price 5,100 yen → Test ride participants only 4,000 yen (Elementary school students, usual price 3,600 yen → 3,000 yen)
| Event Schedule | time | venue |
|---|---|---|
| Saturday, February 28, 2026 - Sunday, March 1, 2026 | 2/28 9:00-15:00 3/1 9:00~14:30 | Katashina Kogen Ski Resort, Gunma Prefecture |
◆Details and applications
: https://www.instagram.com/p/DTfbRPAkQ0U/
ARMADA ｜DEMO TOUR 2026
This season, the schedule for ARMADA test ride events has been announced at eight locations across the country, from Sapporo in Hokkaido to Hyogo. Some dates and locations are blessed with powder snow every year, so you can enter on the day depending on the conditions. Advance registration is required online, and signing up for ARMADA's email newsletter is a prerequisite. The latest information will be posted on Instagram and Facebook
"ARMADA DEMO TOUR 2026" Event Details
Participation fee: Free
Participation conditions: Online entry and ID required
Last rental period 30 minutes before closing
| Event Schedule | time | venue |
|---|---|---|
| January 17th (Sat) - 18th (Sun), 2026 | 10:00-15:00 | Sapporo International Ski Resort, Hokkaido |
| January 24th (Sat) - 25th (Sun), 2026 | 10:00-15:00 | Appi Kogen Ski Resort, Iwate Prefecture |
| Saturday, January 31, 2026 - Sunday, February 1, 2026 | 10:00-15:00 | Geto Kogen Ski Resort, Iwate Prefecture |
| February 7th (Sat) - 8th (Sun), 2026 | 10:00-15:00 | Hachikogen Ski Resort, Hyogo Prefecture |
| February 14th (Sat) - 15th (Sun), 2026 | 10:00-15:00 | Takasu Snow Park, Gifu Prefecture |
| February 21st (Sat) - 22nd (Sun), 2026 | 10:00-15:00 | Kandatsu Snow Resort, Niigata Prefecture |
| February 28, 2026 (Sat) - March 1, 2026 (Sun) | 10:00-15:00 | Kawaba Ski Resort, Gunma Prefecture |
| March 7th (Sat) - 8th (Sun), 2026 | 10:00-15:00 | Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort, Nagano Prefecture |
◆Details and applications
: https://armadaskis.jp/index.php/demotour/
FACTION｜2026 DEMO DAYS
The schedule for FACTION test ride events from February to early March has been published on @factionskis_japan. This year, many test ride events are planned to be held in Hokkaido. Details will be updated sequentially, so keep an eye on Instagram
2026 DEMO DAYS
| Event Schedule | time | venue |
|---|---|---|
| Saturday, January 31, 2026 – Sunday, February 1, 2026 | 9:00-15:00 | Niseko Hanazono Ski Resort in Hokkaido and Amihari Onsen Ski Resort in Iwate Prefecture |
| February 7th (Sat) – 8th (Sun), 2026 | 9:00-15:00 | Kawaba Ski Resort, Gunma Prefecture |
| February 14th (Sat) – 15th (Sun), 2026 | 9:00-15:00 | Kiroro Resort, Hokkaido |
| Sunday, March 1, 2026 | 9:00-15:00 | Kitami Northern Arc Resort, Hokkaido |
◆Details
@factionskis_japan
2026-27 SALOMON SKI EXPERIENCE TOUR
The schedule for the "SALOMON SKI EXPERIENCE TOUR," a test ride event for new ski models, which will give you an early chance to experience the 2026-2027 season models, has been announced. The official website describes it as follows:
"This year's test ride event has a special meaning even more than usual. The Milan-Cortina d'Ampezzo Winter Olympics, for which Salomon is a premium partner, are finally about to begin. To coincide with this major milestone, Salomon has completely revamped its racing products. They feature a variety of innovative technologies developed with an eye on the world's highest stage. Your heart will start beating the moment you touch the skis, and the moment they hit the snow, you will be astounded by their overwhelming gliding performance. Every time you ski down the slopes, you will discover a new you. Be the first to experience the excitement and thrills worthy of an Olympic year on the snow."
2026-27 SALOMON SKI EXPERIENCE TOUR Event Details
・Participation fee: Free
・Conditions for participation: S/PLUS members only (free)
*If you are already an S/PLUS member or have previously been a member of the online store, you will need to log in with your email address and password.
*If you are not registered, you can create an account for free by clicking "Create an account"
*Guests cannot enter
*Proof of identity such as a driver's license or insurance card is required
| Event Schedule | time | venue |
|---|---|---|
| January 24th (Sat) - 25th (Sun), 2026 | 10:00-15:00 | Gunma Prefecture White World Oze Iwakura |
| Saturday, February 7, 2026 | 10:00-15:00 | Hokkaido Kamui Ski Links |
| Sunday, February 8, 2026 | 10:00-15:00 | Sapporo Teine Olympia, Hokkaido |
| February 14th (Sat) - 15th (Sun), 2026 | 10:00-15:00 | Sugadaira Ski Resort, Nagano Prefecture (hosted by JSP) |
| Saturday, February 21, 2026 | 10:00-15:00 | Washigatake Ski Resort, Gifu Prefecture (SKI FORUM ONSNOW, hosted by JSP) |
◆Details and applications
: https://salomon.jp/a/archives/columns/8768
JSP SKI FORUM ON SNOW 2025 | New Model Test Ride
This annual test ride event for next season's models is organized by the Japan Ski Industry Promotion Association (JSP). Many manufacturers and brands gather here during the peak season. You can compare models from various brands, and since it's held during the peak season, it's the perfect opportunity to try them out in good conditions. This season, the event will be held at the traditional Sugadaira venue and Washigatake Ski Resort in Gifu Prefecture. Advance registration is required, so don't forget to make a reservation! Advance registration is available through ski shops such as Alpen and Victoria (until February 13th), and through Asoview
JSP SKI FORUM ON SNOW 2026 New Model Test Ride Event Event Details
・Participation fee: 1,500 yen (2,000 yen on the day)
・Participation conditions: Must present proof such as a driver's license or insurance card
・Registration will close once capacity is reached
| Event Schedule | time | venue |
|---|---|---|
| February 14th (Sat) – 15th (Sun), 2026 | 9:00-15:00 (reception begins at 8:30) | Nagano Prefecture Sugadaira Kogen Snow Resort Urataro Family Slope |
| Saturday, February 21, 2026 | 9:00-15:00 (reception begins at 8:30) | Gifu Prefecture Washigatake Ski Resort In front of HOTEL Rainbow |
◆For details and applications,
please visit https://ski-jsp.jp/
Ishii Sports | 2026-2027 New Model Ski Test Ride
Ishii Sports' annual nationwide test ride event for new models begins at Hyonosen International Ski Resort on February 21st and continues at eight locations nationwide this season. The lineup features a wide variety of new ski models, including racing, demo, and freeride. Test ride models will be announced as soon as they are finalized.
In addition to skis, you can also try out boots, goggles, and helmets in the field. Discount tickets will be distributed at the venue, but it's best to use them on the day of the test ride. If you make a reservation on the spot, you'll receive an additional discount on top of the special early booking price, allowing you to get the new model at the lowest price of the year. Advance registration for the test ride is now being accepted in-store or online!
2026-2027 New Model Ski Test Ride Event Event Details
Participation fee: Advance registration 1,100 yen | Same-day registration 2,500 yen (Sugadaira venue only: Advance registration 2,750 yen | Same-day registration 3,500 yen)
Participation conditions: Must present proof such as a driver's license or insurance card
| Event Schedule | time | venue |
|---|---|---|
| Saturday, February 21, 2026 | 9:00-15:00 | Hyogo Prefecture, Mt. Hyonose International Ski Resort |
| Saturday, February 28, 2026 | 9:00-15:00 | Tainai Ski Resort, Niigata Prefecture |
| Sunday, March 1, 2026 | 9:00-15:00 | Niigata Prefecture Grape Snow Resort |
| March 7th (Sat) - 8th (Sun), 2026 | 9:00-15:00 | Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort, Nagano Prefecture |
| March 14th (Sat) - 15th (Sun), 2026 | 9:00-15:00 | Geto Plateau, Iwate Prefecture |
| March 28th (Sat) - 29th (Sun), 2026 | 9:00-15:00 | Sugadaira Kogen Snow Resort, Nagano Prefecture |
| April 4th (Sat) - 5th (Sun), 2026 | 9:00-15:00 | Sapporo Teine, Hokkaido |
| April 11th (Sat) - 12th (Sun), 2026 | 9:00-15:00 | Kiroro Snow World, Hokkaido |
◆For details and applications
, please visit https://www.ishii-sports.com/wintersports/customfair/ski_newmodel/
ATOMIC TEST DRIVE 2026
This is a test ride event where you can experience various Atomic skis on an actual snowy mountain. The attraction is that highly specialized staff, including top athletes who are guests, will give you advice on the settings that suit your skiing technique and preferences. In addition, product seminars will be held twice a day (from 12:30 and 14:00) exclusively at the Sugadaira venue. Gate tests will also be held at the Sugadaira and Asarigawa venues
ATOMIC TEST DRIVE 2026 Event Details
・Participation fee: 1,000 yen per person per day (lift ticket not included)
・Registration: From 8:30
・Please bring your boots, clothing, helmet, goggles, poles, etc. and gather at the meeting point on the day.
| Event Schedule | time | venue |
|---|---|---|
| Thursday, February 5, 2026 - Sunday, February 8, 2026 | 9:00-14:30 | Sugadaira Kogen Ski Resort, Nagano Prefecture |
| Wednesday, February 11th – Saturday, February 14th, 2026 | 9:00-14:30 | Asarigawa Onsen Ski Resort, Hokkaido |
| Sunday, February 15, 2026 | 9:00-14:30 | Asahikawa Kamui Ski Links, Hokkaido |
| February 20th (Friday) - 21st (Saturday), 2026 | 9:00-14:30 | Appi Kogen Ski Resort, Iwate Prefecture |
| Sunday, February 22, 2026 | 9:00-14:30 | Shizukuishi Ski Resort, Iwate Prefecture |
| February 23, 2026 (Monday holiday) | 9:00-14:30 | Iwate Prefecture Iwate Kogen Snow Park |
◆For details and applications, click here
VECTOR GLIDE GLIDE ON GROOVE
This season's VECTOR GLIDE DEMO TOUR "GLIDE ON GROOVE" will be held at three venues across the country. The official website describes it as "a test ride event where you can try out skis and snowboards that are made with uncompromising craftsmanship and pursue turning performance. With the theme of "enjoy gliding like the groove of music," we will deliver a new riding experience along with soothing music in collaboration with JAZZY SPORT."
Advance registration is required to avoid overcrowding.
VECTOR GLIDE GLIDE ON GROOVE Event Details
・Participation fee: Free
・Conditions for participation: Online advance registration and ID such as a driver's license are required
・Last rental period ends 30 minutes before closing time
| Event Schedule | time | venue |
|---|---|---|
| January 9th (Friday) - January 11th (Sunday), 2026 | 9:30-14:00 | Kiroro Resort, Hokkaido |
| Saturday, January 31, 2026 - Sunday, February 1, 2026 | 9:30-14:00 | Nekoma Mountain by Hoshino Resorts, Fukushima Prefecture |
| Saturday, March 7th to Sunday, March 8th, 2025 | 9:30-14:00 | Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort, Nagano Prefecture |
◆For details and applications, click here
VECTOR GLIDE TESTRIDE
VECTOR GLIDE TEST RIDE is a test ride event held at ski resorts across Japan. A lineup of models is selected to suit the area characteristics and field conditions of each location, allowing participants to experience the matching of the ski's individual characteristics with the snow quality and terrain
・Participation fee: Free
・Conditions for participation: Online advance registration and ID such as a driver's license are required
・Last rental period ends 30 minutes before closing time
| Event Schedule | time | venue |
|---|---|---|
| Saturday, February 21, 2026 - Sunday, February 22, 2026 | 9:30-14:00 | Togakushi Ski Resort, Nagano Prefecture |
◆For details and applications, click here
Nekoma Mountain | NEKOMA MOUNTAIN FEST 2026
"NEKOMA MOUNTAIN FEST 2026" is a winter festival at Nekoma Mountain. It's a packed event with activities, including a ski and snowboard test ride event, "THE UNINVITED 2026" being held for the first time in Japan, as well as booths and night events. This year's lively event will be held again from February 6th (Fri) to 8th (Sun) during the peak season
A popular event at NEKOMA MOUNTAIN FEST, the largest test ride event for the latest skis and snowboards in the Tohoku region, will be held again this year. Famous snowboard and ski brands will be gathered together in one place. Be sure to take advantage of this lucky opportunity to try out a variety of items all at once
NEKOMA MOUNTAIN FEST 2026 Overview
Details will be announced at a later date
| Event Schedule | time | venue |
|---|---|---|
| February 6th (Friday) – February 8th (Sunday), 2026 | To be announced at a later date | Hoshino Resorts Nekoma Mountain, Fukushima Prefecture |
◆For details and applications,
please visit https://www.nekoma.co.jp/event/60048/