"A classic product that will be used for a long time" as told by backcountry guides

Photo: INFIELD

Professional guides work in the great outdoors. For them, mountain gear is like a companion, and sometimes even a lifeline. We asked them if there is any gear they are deeply attached to, that they "have used for a long time and can't let go of." And why? 

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Q. What is the gear (item) that you have been using for a long time and are very attached to?

SCARPA's "Vinson"

Ryuta Furuichi | Mountain Guide Coyote

My latest trend is telemark skiing in the backcountry for my own enjoyment, using

" They're perfect for slightly deeper snow, such as fresh snow or spring granular snow. For soft snow, you need soft boots to dull the sensation on the soles of your feet. I really enjoy spending my days rediscovering the mountains of Niseko and Mt. Yotei with these boots!!


Petzl's Summit ice axe

Makoto Kuroda | Kuroda Mountain Guide Office

It's simple and easy to use. It's not too light and practical. It doesn't have any unnecessary grips or rubber, and the blades and tips are sturdy, so you can safely use it on hard snow and ice. I had no problem with this one ski on Denali, Mont Blanc, or the Haute Route.

It's just the right weight for skiing downhill from variations at Tsurugi, Hotaka, and Hakuba in Japan. An axe that's too light will just be holding it and may not perform as well as you need it in the right situation, so this is the minimum weight you need.


NORDICA pole

Shohei Sasaki | CIRCLE GAME guide service

This is a hand-me-down pole I inherited from my father when I was in junior high school. It never breaks, and I've never had a pole that swings better than this one, so I've been using it for almost 20 years. In the spring of 2019, I even used it to climb Denali (lol).

It's a regular straight pole, not a powder ring, so I haven't used it for work in the last few years, but I always keep it in my car as a spare pole and often use it when skiing at private resorts.


Gregory's Targhee 45 backpack

Toyokazu Nakano | INFIELD

It's a perfect backpack for backcountry tours, and I really like using it because it's easy to use and comfortable to wear. Although there have been minor updates, the fact that the same model has been around for so long without major changes speaks to its high level of perfection.

Since I use it every day during the season, I can't use the same one for 10 years, but the fact that the same familiar model continues to exist is why I can use it for so long.


 
 

LEATHERMAN

Kazuya Igarashi | Kagura Powder Station

This is the third generation, and I think it's out of production now, but it's a simple set with the bare minimum of tools. The pliers are sturdy, and they can reliably handle heavy, detailed work even in the cold and snow when your gear breaks. It's a tool I carry with me all year round.


GIRO CONTOUR RS 

Mariko Sato | Spur Akita mountain guide

I feel that GIRO's VIVID lenses suit me well, and I particularly like the VIVID Pink lenses. The clarity of the lenses gives me a sense of security, making them a reliable item. I'm replacing them this season, so I don't have them in my hands yet, but I've ordered this season's model, BLACK CRYSTALS VIVID Pink.


Patagonia Men's Long Sleeve Capilene Cool Merino Blend Graphic Shirt

Chikara Nakajima | RIKI JAPOW GUIDE

Merino wool base layer. It feels comfortable against the skin and doesn't easily get sweaty. Merino is the best base material.


TONES SKI "HANDS"

Tomohiro Sagawa|COLOR SPORT CLUB

This is the second model from TONES SKI, and it's been my favorite ski for many years. It has the grip to accurately grasp any terrain, making it versatile and agile. The shape of the tip, with its volume and strength, allows for high performance in any conditions. The stability underfoot and the stickiness of the tail are also excellent, allowing for the ultimate carving experience.


Hill Sound "Pack Staff 40

Ryuta Asahi | Rythm Works

I use it all year round to organize the contents of my backpack by category. Its easy-to-use shape and tough construction make it safe for even the harshest environments. Unfortunately, it's no longer available, and I like it so much that I'm considering making one myself.

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