Tips From The Team: How To Smash Pow Like A Local

Winter is well and truly in full swing now – and let us take a wild guess, you’re riding hasn’t quite been living up to all the thoughts, hopes and dreams you’d built up in the lead up to the winter season. 

Don’t stress, it happens to us all. We couldn’t even count the amount of times we’ve heard (or said) “I’m going to backflip into deep pow this season”.... 5 seasons in a row.

But visualising a trick or a line and then actually riding how you imagined are two different things, and once you’re out on the slopes keeping an eye out for other riders, scouting terrain and dealing with outdoor elements, it’s easy for those goals to fly out the window or seem too hard – a job for another day. 

Screw that. We get it, but we won’t accept it – we want you hitting those goals this season. 

So we tracked down Rhythm Rides backcountry guide, Josh Kent, to get his tips and tricks for riding in pow this winter. Because we don’t just want you to get a taste of pow, we want you to absolutely send it and make the most of Japan’s truly unique conditions. 

Tip 1: Read the Snow, Not the Tracks

"In Japan, the deepest and most consistent snow is often sitting just off the obvious lines that are always ridden. Look for wind-loaded pockets, natural features, and protected zones rather than blindly following what’s been ridden already. Oh, and learn how to ride pow properly before you go trying to ride it in trees."

Tip 2: See Through The Snowblind

"Tree riding here is about flow, it is a dance. And everyone gets excited to ride trees in Japow but that light, fluffy, airy snow we all love flies up over your face very easily and blocks your vision. Make sure you know where you are and what's  coming ahead before you smash pow and go head first into a trunk."

Tip 3: Look Through the Trees, Not At Them

"Fixating on obstacles is a fast way to meet it. Keep your eyes focused on the gaps between trees to find your line through, and look for spots to turn before you arrive - plan ahead. "

Tip 4: Bamboo Changes Everything

"The bamboo undergrowth common in Japan is far less forgiving than standard tree cover. It can stop you very abruptly, so give it space and be especially cautious in flat light or unfamiliar zones."

Tip 5. Poles and Hands Are Tools, Not Decorations

"Japan's natural conditions might mean throwing hands at obstacles in front of you to make sure you can get through without copping a branch to the face." 

Tip 6: Ride One at a Time

"Tree wells and deep snow immersion are real hazards in Japan. Spacing out, maintaining visual contact, and stopping to check on each other should be standard practice."

Tip 7: Know the Cultural Grey Zones

"Tree access rules vary widely between resorts and regions in Japan. Do your homework, read signage carefully, and respect closures - enforcement and consequences can be very real."

Tip 8. Don’t Forget Why You’re Here

"You’re riding in one of the most snow-rich and culturally layered places in the world. Respect the mountains, the people, and the customs - on and off the hill - and actually take a moment to enjoy just how special it is."