Exploring the Art of Powder
Exploring the Art of Powder
Hoshino Resorts is proud to announce the opening of the VECTOR GLIDE demo center at our ski resorts. To showcase the exceptional craftsmanship and unique features of VECTOR GLIDE skis and snowboards, we spoke with the founder Masayuki Akiba about his top recommendations and the brand’s standout qualities.
Can you tell us what
VECTOR GLIDE represents as a brand?
I’ve spent much of my life in the world of competitive skiing. One day, I encountered an incredible slope—like a once-in-a-lifetime experience—and that’s when I discovered the joy of backcountry skiing. At the time, I couldn’t find the kind of skis I truly wanted, so I decided to create them myself. That’s how VECTOR GLIDE was born.
What are the key features of
VECTOR GLIDE skis?
In short, they’re skis and snowboards designed specifically for Japan’s powder and backcountry conditions. Every piece is crafted entirely in Japan to perfectly match the unique quality of Japanese snow.
What does it mean for skis to be suited
to Japanese snow conditions?
In Japan, the ski season is long, and snow conditions vary greatly depending on the region, altitude, and even the time of day. In the U.S., snow tends to be relatively dry and light in deep areas, while in Europe, it’s often shallower and harder. In Japan, you can encounter both extremes in the same area, along with heavier, deeper snow. We designed our skis to perform consistently and reliably across these diverse conditions with just one pair.
Some people think VECTOR GLIDE skis are
stiff and heavy. Why is that?
There are two key factors to achieving stability in skis. The first is stiffness and weight. While they may not be necessary for gliding through light, deep powder in ideal conditions, such situations aren’t always guaranteed. Stiffness and weight provide stability and prevent chatter when skiing on rough or variable snow. The second is the balance of shape and flex, which ensures buoyancy in deep snow while allowing for smooth, controlled turns. By carefully fine-tuning these elements, we create skis that perform consistently, regardless of snow type, slope angle, or surface conditions.
Can you tell us about the flagship model
the “GENIUS”?
The GENIUS is the ultimate powder ski in the VECTOR GLIDE lineup, featuring the fattest dimensions for incredible floatation. Even in slightly heavier powder, it provides excellent buoyancy without compromising on turning performance. Its design allows the skis to stay flat against the slope without braking, delivering exceptional speed and stability.
Another standout feature is its pintail shape, inspired by snowboard design. We’ve also created a snowboard under the same name, utilizing a wide tip and a tapered tail. This shape not only ensures superb floatation but also allows for smooth, neutral turns, making it highly maneuverable. It’s perfect for tree runs and delivers a truly fun experience on the mountain.
What skis would you recommend for
someone new to fat skis?
I’d recommend the “POLARVE Light” and “MAKE BC” models. Both feature a softer flex, making them easy to handle and perfect for enjoying powder.
POLARVE Light: Ideal if you’re looking to purchase a dedicated pair for backcountry skiing, separate from your regular resort skis.
MAKE BC: Perfect if you want a versatile ski that performs well in both backcountry and resort settings.
A Message from the Founder
I believe fat skis are a game-changing piece of gear that doubles the joy of backcountry skiing. Unlike groomed slopes at resorts, where conditions don’t vary much from place to place, backcountry skiing lets you experience diverse snow conditions and terrain depending on the area. It’s this variety that makes me feel like fat skis take me on a journey. In backcountry skiing, every run—every slope—becomes a vivid memory etched into your mind. I encourage everyone to give fat skis a try and discover an even richer and more unforgettable skiing experience.