Man it’s here. We’re off to Hokkaido today for a week of shredding. We’ve been pretty lucky because it’s snowed quite a bit this week, topping things up real nice. I know what it’s gonna be like tonight – the first night in the chalet – like a kid on Christmas Eve. I’ll be so excited I won’t be able to get to sleep. I’ve aready annoyed Ciara this morning by getting up too early and then jumping around the place…

I’ve just had a quick look at the forecast for the next few days and it seems for now, at least, the snow is hanging back. It should make for some great sunny riding days to begin with – but I hope the temperature stays low and we get some fresh snow next week. Throw a prayer up to the snow gods for me!

The new stick. Well, I’m also really excited as this will be the first time that I’ve ridden the new board, the T2. I can’t wait to see what it’s like. I sized it with our new snowboard size calculator, which worked a treat.

Actaully, I’ve been pondering the stance options a little this week. You see the (152) Kink’s got a wide boy set up, allowing for a 25″ stance. I started off using the 25″ set and it was nice, much wider than anything I’d tried before, and it had its benefits. But after a while I dropped down to the next inserts which are around 22″. The main reason for this was that I found it easier to pop/ollie with a narrower stance…

Now, the T2 looks like its widest set is 23.5″ and then 22″. This is pretty handy (for all I know this could be standard?) because I’ve got the option to stay with the same setup. However, that 23.5″ is right inbetween, so I’m gonna check it out and see how it feels.

Oh yeah, I’ve waxed the boards up too. I still don’t know whether or not I’m doing a good job with this. It’s always in the back of my head that I might be adding a sticky coat that’s gonna slow me down, rather than performing a speedy wax! In fact I might do something with this when I get back: show you guys my procedure and hopefully pick up some tips. I’m also bringing some rub-on wax with me for good measure.

Ok, I suppose it’s time to go get ready. I wanna give a quick shout out to my (lucky) mate Simon, who’s off to Fernie for two weeks. Have a good time mate! I say “lucky”, but there’re no complaints here… I’m going snowboarding! Sick.

Update: After an epic trip, I’ve now completed my ultimate guide to snowboarding in Hokkaido. Check it out!

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