Burton Sapporo

"Get Ready for Powder Snow at Burton's Flagship Store"

Burton was founded in the U.S. in 1977. It has been a pioneer in snowboarding for nearly 50 years, constantly producing innovative products. Their flagship store opened in Odori, Sapporo in 2020. This is the go-to spot for gearing up before heading to the slopes.
From apparel and accessories to boards, boots, and bindings, everything you need for snowboarding is available here.

There are only four Burton flagship stores in Japan. One in Sapporo offers a unique service: the first-of-its-kind "Test Ride Center" in Japan.
This service allows you to rent Burton boards and boots before purchasing, so you can try them out on the snow before you buy.

Because Sappori has great places for snowboarding, the all staffs are seasoned snowboarders. They are ready to give advice for anybody from beginners to experts. You can ask anything about snowboarding or any concerns you have.

We interviewed Mr. Sakai, the manager of the flagship store in Sapporo. He told us about the popular models and the recommended gears for powder snow.

"Specialized Store, Specialized Knowledge.”

- Burton offers many models suitable for powder snow. What are some popular choices?

Mr.Sakai: Lately, shorter and wider boards are popular. The boards with good maneuverability and high buoyancy are selling well.

Does a pointed nose increase buoyancy?

Mr.Sakai: It is not the only reason but the image is more like when ships are going forward. So because of the sharpness, we can smoothly go through a deep slope. If the nose is more squared, it pushes down snow to go through. It depends on which type you like. Although, boards with pointy nose are much easier for pwder snow compared to squared ones, which is good for packed snow.

There are so many kinds of boards. It is hard to pick one.

Mr. Sakai: It reaaly depends on your purpose. Some want a feeling of floating, some want for jumping. We have some for freestyle, and of course for all-round. Many people have several boards. For example, boards for powder snow are not fully functional for usual snow, so they have all-round boards for main use.

At the Sapporo store, we can try them out at the "Test Ride Center," right?

Mr.Sakai: Yes, we have the entire lineup this year, so many customers try before they buy. Some even visit just to experience powder snow. You can also try Burton's STEP ON^®.

- What exactly is STEP ON^®?

Mr.Sakai: Because the boards are strapless, you can set your boots to the boards easily. You just step the heel cleat onto the binding and set the heel buckle, then shift your position to your toe and fix the both sides. With STEP ON^®, you can prepare quickly and easily.

Is the most fascinated point of STEP ON^® its usability?

Mr.Sakai: Plus, the lightness. Other brands also have the similar products, but our boots and bindings are both lightened.

Right. They are incredibly light.

Mr.Sakai: Exactly. They're as comfortable as regular boots and stress-free even off the slopes. They're suitable for powder snow too. I recommend them for both beginners and experts.

- Thank you. What are the popular boot models?

Mr.Sakai: The Photon model of STEP ON^® is the most popular.

I heard there's a shortage of inventory. When is the best time to buy?

Mr.Sakai: It is difficult to tell you exactly when, but you should get as early as possible. Often you cannot get what you really want especially in December. If you want to try Burton products when you come to visit Sapporo, please use "Test Ride Cemter".

For those who unfamiliar with snow, this is where they should visit before heading off to the slopes, right?

Mr. Sakai: We can give you some advice if you don’t know what you need to get for the first time. Of course, we can provide btter suggestion to experts, who are looking for boards for powder snow. We are happy to welcome anyone seeking guidance on snowboarding.