The Best Skis For Japan 2016-17
Chillfactor x Rhythm Snowboard Shop
There was a time when skiing powder was hard work, a matter of multiple bouncy, short swing turns on straight, skinny flat-cambered skis which restricted the fun factor of powder to the most technical elite skiers.
Fortunately, the late, great Shane McConkey came up with a concept in 2006 that revolutionised ski design. A combination of fat skis, reverse side cut and reverse camber (Rocker), Shane’s design laid the platform for the modern powder ski, a ski that makes the deep, light fluffy stuff accessible for all – powder to the people.
Today’s powder skis are something special, the width, tapered shapes and rocker allowing big turns at speed. They are also light, nimble and responsive – just what you need when you’re chasing powder in the trees.
So, if you are going to Japan you want to make sure you have the right equipment to make the most of that epic. This guide from the crew at Rhythm Snowsports will help you make the right choice on skis and have you shredding at your best.
ARMADA JJ 2.0
Sizes: 165cm, 175cm, 185cm, 195cm
Dimensions (175cm): 130-137-116-133-126
Turn radius (175cm): 16m
The ski that changed men’s powder riding forever returns with its trademark flotation, edging and all around face shot-making, deep-snow-buttering fun. The JJ 2.0 embraces its heritage as one of the most-awarded, and biggest, developmental leaps in skiing history and carries it forward in 16/17.
ARMADA VJJ 2.0
Sizes: 155cm, 165cm, 175cm
Dimensions (165cm): 129-136-115-132-125
Turn radius (165cm): 15m
The women’s version makes skiing pow fun and easy on this iconic powder ski. Super playful and lively thanks to a Hybrid Ultra-Light Core, the VJJ 2.0 begs to hit your favorite tree stashes before ripping the hard-pack on the way back to the lift. It’ll float your boat, no matter how deep the snow.
VOLKL BMT 109
Sizes: 166cm, 176cm, 185cm
Dimensions (176cm): 134-109-119
Turn radius (176cm): 22.4m
Designed as a backcountry ski, the BMT 109 is also a great choice for nailing some pow in Japan. With a full carbon construction and lightweight multi-layer wood core, it features full rocker and an early-taper side-cut, for true backcountry versatility. They also ski really well on the groomed, but pow is where they shine.
DPS PURE WAILER 112
Sizes: 168cm, 178cm, 184cm, 190cm
Dimensions (178cm) 141-112-128
Radius: 16m
A strong, light ski with the rocker you need for floating through the powder, tis ski also has the versatility for complete control in the trees. The 112RP2 consistently and playfully delivers ultimate powder versatility and ease of use in varying conditions and is still fun for those rare times you are on the groomed. Who skis on piste when they’re in Japan?
DPS YVETTE 112RP2
Sizes: 168cm, 178cm
Dimensions: 141-112-128
Turn radius: 16m
Powder in the morning, crud in the afternoon, and carving groomed arcs back down for après. The Yvette 112RP2 combines the loose and early planning feel of a fully rockered ski with aggressive side-cut and slight camber underfoot. Borrowing from the basic geometry of the award-winning Wailer 112RP2, the Yvette 112RP2 is the most versatile women’s ski ever built.
ATOMIC BENT CHETLER
Sizes: 175cm, 185cm, 192cm
Dimensions: 142-120-134
Turn radius (185cm): 19m
One of the best powder skis on the market, this is Chris Benchetler’s signature ski so it’s not surprising that it’s a ski that not only floats better in deep snow but also allows you to expand on the possibilities in powder. A light wood core, powder rocker and 120mm waist makes this ski ideal for playful Japow missions.
