To settle your first question: No, premium doesn’t mean good, and standard doesn’t mean bad. All of Rhythm Japan’s gear is hand selected based on quality, practicality, and different usage needs to ensure that all of our customers are rented boards/skis that’ll best suit their experience and riding style. There are, however, differences between the models and who they will be most suited for.
We’ve broken down the nitty-gritty specifics of the two to make the decision as to if you should look into hiring premium or standard gear during your trip to Japan as easy as possible.
Firstly, what’s the difference…
Standard Rental Packages
Our standard rental packages include basic model equipment that is great for beginner to lower intermediate riders. This package is designed to be a cost effective option for those on a budget who are looking to stick to groomed runs.
Standard Models
For skiers, the standard models are limited to Volkl RTM or Salomon X-Drive, and for boarders, Burton LTR. Both are quite soft and easy to turn, making them good for beginners to learn on before they upgrade to more refined premium gear.
Premium Rental Packages
On the other hand, our premium package allows customers access to the latest range of demo gear, new models and powder skis or snowboards. Premium rentals also offer options to cater to more specific equipment preferences such as carvers, park orientated, all-mountain, powder-specific, stiff and responsive, or soft and forgiving, giving more experienced riders options for all weather conditions and styles of shredding.
Premium Models
In the premium range, our ski brands include K2, Black Crows, Atomic and Armada, while our premium board brands feature Capita, Lib Tech, Nitro, Jones, and many more. Customers hiring premium gear have significantly more options in terms of the gear they choose, and with the help of our specialised ski and board techs, will be able to find the perfect fit for their style of riding.
Perks Of Renting With Rhythm
Whether you hire standard or premium gear, you will have the option of swapping the gear for free, so you can enjoy a new set of skis/snowboard based on conditions or simply to try something new like swapping from boards to skis. If you are looking to swap, our friendly staff will be on hand to suggest skis/snowboards based on your needs and ability, as well as the daily snowfall conditions.
All customers, both standard and premium, also have access to the Rhythm shuttle, which can pick you up and take you to the shop to hire your equipment, as well as dropping you off after you have checked out your rentals.
All customers, both standard and premium, also have access to the Rhythm shuttle
Customers hiring our premium snowboard package also have access to Burton STEP ON boots and bindings (not available in kids sizes).
*Please note that STEP ON boots and bindings are subject to availability.
Outerwear
Customers of both our premium and standard packages have access to in-season Armada outerwear (jackets, pants), as well as safety gear such as helmets, avi packs and wristguards.
*Please note that for pre-bookings on outerwear and safety gear please go to the ‘Others’ section of the pre-booking site, don’t forget to add them on before finalising your booking!
So, What Should You Get?
If you’re a beginner or first-timer, we recommend the standard models to best suit your needs and make it an easy process to learn and get comfortable on snow. If you are more advanced and know what you’re looking for, the premium models will be the better option for you.
For a more refined breakdown of the difference between premium and standard, watch our video below:
Standard Vs Rental Summary
| Category | Standard Package | Premium Package |
|---|---|---|
| Target Audience | Beginner to lower intermediate riders | More experienced riders |
| Cost | Cost-effective, budget-friendly | Higher cost for advanced features |
| Equipment Type | Basic model equipment | Latest range, new models, powder skis/boards |
| Specifics for Skiers | Limited to Volkl RTM or Salomon X-Drive | Options include K2, Black Crows, Atomic, Armada |
| Specifics for Snowboarders | Limited to Burton LTR | Options include Capita, Lib Tech, Nitro, Jones, etc. |
| Riding Style & Conditions | Suited for groomed runs | Suitable for all weather conditions, offers specific types like carvers, park, all-mountain, powder-specific |
| Flexibility & Performance | Soft and easy to turn, good for beginners | Various options: stiff and responsive or soft and forgiving |
| Additional Perks | Free gear swapping, access to Rhythm shuttle | Free gear swapping, access to Rhythm shuttle, access to Burton STEP ON boots and bindings (subject to availability) |
| Outerwear and Safety Gear | Access to Armada outerwear, helmets, avi packs, wristguards | Access to Armada outerwear, helmets, avi packs, wristguards |
| Recommendation | Recommended for beginners or first-timers | Recommended for advanced riders who know what they’re looking for |
