#Japan #Osaka #SNOWTURF #Gyro Technology #Keiichi Okamoto

Revolutionizing Summer Skiing with SNOWTURF

The launch of SNOWTURF marks a groundbreaking development in the realm of summer skiing and snowboarding. Engineered in Japan, this next-generation artificial slope brush enables enthusiasts to enjoy these winter sports even during the hottest months, overcoming traditional limitations posed by the absence of snow.

Product Overview

SNOWTURF is crafted to facilitate skiing and snowboarding on surfaces devoid of snow, ideal for summer ski slopes and off-training facilities. Unlike conventional brush-like artificial turf, SNOWTURF promises to deliver a glide sensation closer to that of natural snow, enhanced control through superior edging, and a high degree of customizability. The innovation stems from a partnership between the trailblazing gear developer Gyro Technology and prominent professional snowboarder Keiichi Okamoto, who spearheaded off-training in the industry. After two years of extensive testing and refinement, SNOWTURF emerges as a practical solution responding to real-world needs.

Key Features

1. Dual-Direction Brushes: SNOWTURF employs a combination of vertical and horizontal brushes along with three distinct tips for enhanced edge performance.
2. Seamless Structure: Its patented design leverages unique material compositions to create a natural glide experience, devoid of gaps.
3. Customizable Brush: Notably, the base plate can be detached from the bristle tips, allowing for easy replacements and offering high customization and maintenance potential.
4. Quality Assurance: Justifiable by Japanese brand standards, our product guarantees diligent quality control and flexible implementation options.

Addressing Current Needs

Why Now is the Time for SNOWTURF?

• - Challenges: The sports industry grapples with significant snow shortages due to climate change and a noticeable decline in skiing participants, particularly among younger audiences constrained by economic factors.
• - Growing Demand: There is increasing anticipation for ski resorts to operate summer activities, enhancing their appeal to urban populations seeking year-round skiing experiences.
• - Market Trends: Data indicates a 41% increase in visitors to ski resorts over five years, indicating an expanding market for year-round skiing and snowboarding activities.

Given these factors, SNOWTURF serves as an innovative solution linking challenges, market demand, and emerging trends, aiming to revolutionize the ski industry. This product will attract visitors during summer seasons, effectively tackling the issues posed by shorter skiing periods, and introducing SNOWTURF close to urban areas will subsequently lower entry barriers for many enthusiasts.

Insights from Co-Developer Keiichi Okamoto

Keiichi Okamoto, a pioneer in off-training and a representative of Japan at the Beijing Paralympics, was instrumental in the development of SNOWTURF. Reflecting on his experiences, he stated, "Having dedicated around 20 years to off-training, I have tried numerous snow brushes throughout my journey. Each brush type comes with its advantages and disadvantages. Our goal has been to strike an optimal balance between edging grip and the unique disbalance caused by brush hardness. Through extensive testing, we've achieved a product that embodies this vision. By launching as a Japanese brand, we aim to revitalize summer activities at Japan's renowned ski resorts, making skiing and snowboarding a year-round pastime. While we are not at perfection yet, we look forward to evolving this product with user feedback."

Feedback from Test Riders

The initial test runs at the Murakami Snow Research & Training Center have elicited positive reviews from prominent riders like Ayumu Hirano and Yamamoto Yuto, who noted, "Of all the brushes we've skied on, SNOWTURF feels the closest to real snow." This praise underscores the product's efficacy in replicating a genuine skiing experience, bridging the gap between summer training and winter sports.

Upcoming Release Event

SNOWTURF is set for its initial user experience at Osaka KINGS around May 10. Following this, the SNOWTURF FIRST RIDE event will take place in late May across Osaka and Toyama, inviting users, media, and professionals to interact with the product firsthand. Attendees can look forward to demonstrations, lessons, and engaging activities led by top riders.

Future Prospects

Looking forward, the development team remains committed to continually crafting brushes tailored to various needs. By promoting urban implementation and expansion in training facilities, they aim to support user skill maintenance and health. Their ultimate vision is to position SNOWTURF as an integral tool in summer slopes and off-training markets, significantly transforming skiing and snowboarding into seasonal sports.

Learn More

For further information, please visit the official SNOWTURF website: SNOWTURF Official Site

Contact:
Gyro Technology Inc., UM Division
Contact Person: Ishiyama Gan
Phone: 03-5879-6088
Email: [email protected]