2013-2014 Volkl Shiro
The 183cm Volkl Shiro offers a nice blend of versatility and powder performance, but demonstrated some finicky behavior that would likely be reduced by sizing up.
Niseko
2012-2013 Blizzard Dakota, 177cm
The women's version of the Cochise, the 2012-2013 Blizzard Dakota is one of the burliest big-mountain women’s skis yet.
Blister: Niseko, Japan
Niseko is a gigantic, beautiful playground of trees, pillows, and deep, light snow.
2012-2013 Blizzard GunSmoke
The new GunSmoke is a freestyle-oriented addition to Blizzard's "Free Mountain" lineup, and a very solid addition at that. BLISTER reviewer Andrew Gregovich is sold.
2012-2013 Line Pandora
More than just a really good pow ski, the Line Pandora might actually be one of the most sturdy and fun all-mountain women’s skis available.
2012-2013 ON3P Cease and Desist
If you're looking for a big ski to point down big lines, the ON3P Cease and Desist might be your ride.
2014-2015 4FRNT Hoji
When Eric Hjorleifson comes out with a new pro model (especially a pro model that replaces the much loved 4FRNT EHP), it's time to pay attention. We've been running the new HOJI through the pillows and trees and pow of Niseko, and the ski is as dynamic and playful as the terrain around here.
2012-2013 Black Diamond Gigawatt
Since it STILL hasn't stopped snowing here in Niseko, we're glad we've had the Gigawatt with us. It's exceptional in deep, open spaces; very good in deep, tight trees; outstanding in soft chop; and excellent (for its size) on groomers. But the biggest question might be: Gigawatt, or Megawatt?
2012-2013 Black Diamond Element
The Black Diamond Element is proving in Niseko to be a fantastic pow ski that actually does very well in chopped up snow and crud - assuming you get the mount position right....
Trip Report: Niseko – The Arrival
Literally, from the very first run, Niseko has lived up to its reputation.
Niseko, Japan Ski Review Trip: Our Selections
Here's the complete list of the fourteen skis in BLISTER's Japan review trip lineup.
BLISTER HEADS EAST
To celebrate BLISTER's one year anniversary and to start off year two with a bang, we're heading to Niseko, Japan, for its deep, light snow, with more than a dozen new skis.
BANG.