My first SUP experience was at Lake Motosu.
PROFILE
Born in 1979 in Itabashi Ward, Tokyo. In 2009, he opened the select shop “the Apartment” in Kichijoji, where he shares with the world the New York culture he has long been passionate about and its vibrant energy. Under the motto “APT
FIELD TESTING,” he is an active enthusiast who constantly heads out into the great outdoors to test both items sourced for the shop and his own prototypes.
Instagram:@theapartment_tokyo
The destination we chose this time was Lake Motosu in Yamanashi Prefecture. Located at the foot of Mount Fuji, it is one of the Fuji Five Lakes, with a depth of over 120 meters. Surrounded by mountains and lava fields, this lake—along with neighboring Lake Shoji and Lake Sai—is known for its crystal-clear waters. Because it remains relatively cool even in the summer, it’s a popular spot for camping and leisure activities year-round.
The 〈FOLBOT〉 that Mr. Ohashi tried out this time is known as an outdoor gear brand based in Charleston, South Carolina—a true specialist known to those in the know, with many years of experience in designing kayaks and SUPs. It excels in safety and durability, and since the board itself can be compactly stored and carried, its main appeal is the ease of setup—simply inflate it on-site, and you’re ready to go. Although Mr. Ohashi gives the impression of someone who regularly enjoys the outdoors—through fishing, camping, and the like—surprisingly, this was his first time trying SUP. It was still early in the morning, and despite his excitement at the sight of the calm water stretching as far as the eye could see, he held back his enthusiasm and began by inflating the board. Once everything was ready, it was finally time to head out onto the lake.
FOLBOT ATTACK SUP ¥159,500
With a width of 34 inches, this design prioritizes stability by offering a wider profile than usual. Durability has been significantly enhanced by using a welded construction in areas prone to wear and tear, and safety is ensured by the inclusion of an automatic exhaust mechanism that activates at pressures exceeding 15 atmospheres. The playful graphics, which subtly incorporate the brand logo into the Dazzle camouflage pattern, are a nice touch.
FOLBOT TFD Dyneema® Composite Fabric ¥26,400
A life jacket is essential for any water activity, and this one features large pockets designed for SUP fishing while maintaining a clean, streamlined look—a welcome feature. It can hold everything from fishing lures and other tackle to your cell phone and valuables all in one place. It’s a one-of-a-kind piece that perfectly balances functionality and style.
