Rider Interview | 194 Talks About Why She Trusts the SPLIT
Proven Performance in Nozawa & Hokkaido Backcountry
In the backcountry, every ascent is earned under your own power, and every descent takes place in the unpredictable world of nature. That's why trusting your gear is essential.
This season, 194 explored some of Japan's most renowned powder destinations, including Nozawa and Hokkaido. Riding through a wide variety of snow conditions and terrain, she once again experienced why the SP Bindings SPLIT has remained her binding of choice for years.
We spoke with her about its performance in real mountain conditions, the confidence it gives her, and why she continues to rely on it season after season.
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Q1. How was your backcountry season this year? What kind of riding did you enjoy in Nozawa and Hokkaido?
194:
It was another incredible season!
I spent almost every day in the mountains around Nozawa, enjoying the opportunity to ride whatever conditions nature offered each day.
Hokkaido was amazing as well, with its light, deep powder reminding me once again why I love the mountains. No two days are ever the same. Every run is unique, and chasing that one unforgettable line is what makes backcountry riding so special.
Q2. Why did you choose the SPLIT again this season?
194:
Honestly, there was never a reason to consider anything else (laughs).
When you're in the backcountry, confidence in your gear is everything. The SPLIT feels incredibly natural, whether I'm climbing or riding. Because of that, I don't have to think about my equipment—I can simply focus on the snow and enjoy the ride.
That's what matters most to me.
Q3. After riding everything from Nozawa to Hokkaido in different snow conditions and terrain, what stood out most about the SPLIT?
194:
Its consistency.
No matter what the conditions are, it performs exactly the way I expect. Whether I'm riding deep powder or steep terrain, it always feels stable and predictable, allowing me to choose my lines with confidence.
It's the kind of binding that makes you think,
"Let's ride everything today!"
Q4. During the transition from climbing to riding, what makes the SPLIT so comfortable to use?
194:
The transitions are incredibly smooth and completely stress-free.
When you're standing on a windy ridge or changing over in freezing temperatures, even saving a little time makes a huge difference.
Those small details add up and make every day in the mountains more enjoyable.
Q5. Trust in your gear is essential in the backcountry. Was there a moment this season when you were especially glad to be riding the SPLIT?
194:
The more challenging the conditions, the more I appreciated it.
In the mountains, one wrong decision can quickly become dangerous. That's why knowing your equipment won't let you down is so important.
Because I trust my bindings completely, I can focus entirely on my riding.
Q6. When did the dedicated crampons prove especially useful?
194:
They were indispensable on hard-packed morning snow and steep traverses.
They grip the snow really well, giving me confidence while climbing. They're also quick to install whenever I need them, which makes a huge difference out in the field.
Q7. How would you describe the response and board feel while riding?
194:
It feels like every movement I make is transferred directly to the board.
The response is very natural and predictable, making it easy to make small adjustments while riding.
Rather than fighting the board, it feels like we're working together, and that connection allows me to ride more naturally.
Q8. During long tours or consecutive days in the mountains, did you notice the benefits of its lightweight design?
194:
Absolutely.
On days with multiple climbs—or after several days in a row in the mountains—the lightweight design really makes a difference.
You simply don't get as tired, and it makes you think,
"Let's do one more lap!" (laughs)
Being able to stay focused and enjoy every run until the end of the day is something I really appreciate.
Q9. After years of backcountry riding, what do you think defines a truly great binding?
194:
For me, it's simple.
It has to give you the confidence to head into the mountains.
Of course, lightweight construction and performance matter, but more importantly, it has to respond exactly the way you expect and remain dependable in every situation.
Backcountry riding is often shared with friends and partners, so having gear you can truly trust is invaluable.
Q10. Is there anywhere you'd like to explore with the SPLIT next season?
194:
There are still so many mountains and new lines I want to ride.
Every backcountry trip offers different scenery and new discoveries.
I'll continue putting safety first while enjoying nature and collecting unforgettable runs.
And with the SPLIT by my side, I hope to experience even more incredible places.
Built on Trust
No two days in the backcountry are ever the same.
Snow conditions, terrain, and weather are constantly changing. That's why dependable equipment isn't just about improving your ride—it's also about staying safe.
For 194, the reason she continues to choose the SP Bindings SPLIT isn't simply because it's lightweight or easy to transition. It's because it delivers the same dependable performance wherever she rides.
The countless days she's spent exploring the deep snow of Nozawa and Hokkaido speak for themselves.
If you're looking to enjoy the backcountry with greater freedom and confidence, the SP Bindings SPLIT is ready to become your most trusted partner.
Profile
Name: Ikuyo Yoshida (194)
Channel: 194channel
Born: September 28, 1985
Height: 159 cm
Stance: Regular / 48 cm
Angles: Front +21° / Rear 0°
Snowboarding Experience: 16 years
Home Mountain: Nozawa Onsen Ski Resort
Board: DAY LYT SPLIT
Instagram: @194channel