u/rileyhawken

I am doing a full season based in Furano next season. Last season in Myoko I bought a November Backcity 162cm which is great for steep and deep but not so great in tight trees and mellow terrain (which I’ve heard is most of Hokkaido).

I also have a twin park/all mountain board. Interested to know if there’s any jibs or jumps built in the area in spring to justify bringing this board? Otherwise I’m considering leaving it at home.

As for new decks, I’m thinking about picking up a Gentemstick Midfish or similar for the low angle trees. A splitboard would also unlock a lot of terrain, interested in the new United Shapes Deep Reach or Covert.

Those who have spent time in the area, what would you bring/buy for the season and what would you leave at home? What sort of terrain to expect compared to my experience in Myoko? Any advice appreciated. Is there much lift accessed terrain suitable for my Backcity or does most of the steep and deep required skinning to access?

Spending a season in Furano. What would be your split of choice to explore the central Hokkaido back country?

Currently looking at United Shapes Covert, Weston Backwoods and Cardiff Goat around the 160cm-162cm range. I’m 85kg, 185cm and 29cm boot

I’m looking at niseko or furano due to the potential El Niño. Niseko would be convenient, social, great access to back country through the gates and a good terrain park for spring. But crowds. Furano would be quieter but need a car to get around and once the powders gone no park to keep things interesting. Which would you pick?

I’m 85kg and 6’1 on a 61L 8 foot soft top. Finally at the stage where I am catching around 10 waves a session but they usually close out or break too fast in front of me - took me longer than it probably should have to get to this level. Google ai tells me my board is too small for my weight and I should be on a 75-85L board, but I spent a fair bit of money on this premium soft top. Should I ditch it and get a fibreglass longboard or keep it? If I get a bigger board will I still have situations where I use this one or will it just sit in the garage?

Was in Myoko last season and enjoyed it but the powder season felt short and sweet, with rain and warmer weather most of December and from mid Feb onwards (only 6ish weeks of consistent powder). Coming back for my second year WHV and seems like Myoko will probably be worse than it was last year with the El Niño.

Should I be trying to find a job in Hokkaido to try maximise my powder consumption?