"This season is my backcountry debut!" "It's about time I bought a new backpack." "I rented one on my first guided tour last season, so this year I want my own." For skiers and snowboarders like you, we'd like to introduce some excellent backpacks that professional BC guides confidently recommend to their guests, calling them "the backpack of choice for a one-day tour."
* For detailed information on the guide club, click the guide club name and go to the guide club introduction page on STEEP!
ARC'TERYX｜RUSH SK 32 BACKPACK
The roll-top design allows for expansion from 32 to a maximum of 40 liters. This backpack utilizes two types of high-performance materials in the right places to enhance durability while remaining lightweight. Its balance, weather resistance, and ease of organization are optimized for backcountry touring. Skis can be attached in an A-frame position on the side or diagonally on the front. For high-season backcountry touring, the Rush SK 32, which expands to 40 liters, offers ample capacity
Capacity: 32 liters
Size (H x W x D): 63 x 28 x 42 cm
Weight: 920 g
Color: Black (Fluidity 2 colors available)
¥38,500
Click here for the official website
"It's stable both when moving and when gliding." | Daichi TERUI
It's light, has a good pack shape, and has little effect on the center of gravity, making it easy to ski. It's functional and easy to use, making it easy to move around. The stability it provides both when skiing and when moving around gives a sense of security to BC beginners with little experience on natural snowy mountains
Reviewer
Daichi Terui
[Main guide area] All of Hokkaido
[Profile]
While attending university, he aspired to become a mountain guide and studied under international mountain guide Hirofumi Ishizaka.
Upon graduating from university, he became a certified guide by the Japan Mountain Guide Association and started guiding. As for his own activities, since his early 20s he has experienced heli-skiing guide training in Northern Europe, mountain climbing in the European Alps, and ski touring. [Qualifications held]
- JMGA Mountain Guide Stage I
, JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
, JAN Avalanche Worker Level I completed
I also love the ARC'TERYX RUSH SK 32 BACKPACK.
"Lightweight, waterproof, and durable!" | Jun Nagai JUNRINA mountain service
There are many reasons why I would recommend this backpack to beginners. First, it's a backcountry backpack, designed for balanced and comfortable carrying. It's also easy to use, with a simple design, a wide side zipper, and easy access to the contents. It's also lightweight, weather-resistant, durable, and waterproof, and is sturdy! You can choose between short and regular back lengths to suit your body size, and the removable helmet fastening system is convenient. I use it myself, and there are many things I like about it when using it in the mountains
Reviewer
JUNRINA mountain serviceJun
Nagai
[Main guide area] Kagura BC, Echigo Yuzawa BC, Tateyama BC
[Profile]
After quitting my job and working at Tateyama Raichoso, I went through guide training and started working as JUNRINA mountain service in 2010.
He has many overseas backcountry trips. In the summer and fall, he works as a mountain climbing guide mainly in the Alps and Joshinetsu, and in the winter and spring he works as a backcountry ski guide. [Qualifications]
・JMGA Mountaineering Guide Stage III
・JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
・JAN Avalanche Worker Level 1
BCA｜FLOAT E2 35L
'22-23 season, new battery-powered float bag from BCA. The new E2 system uses Alpride's supercapacitor fan drive system to store energy and power the compressor during deployment. It stores and releases energy based on magnetic energy instead of chemical reactions like secondary batteries. For this reason, it is attractive that it is highly reliable even at low temperatures.
Capacity: 35ℓ
Weight: 2,792 g (S/M with E2 system), 2,842 g (M/L with E2 system)
Size: S/M, M/L
Color: Moss Green (Black, Tan, 3 colors in total)
¥198,000
Click here for the official website
"Just because you're a beginner doesn't mean you don't need a float bag." | Kazuya Igarashi, Kagura Powder Station
It's lightweight, the pack is well-balanced, and it has all the features you need in a BC. The float system is solid and extremely reliable.
It's not that beginners don't need float bags, but it's best to understand their necessity and understanding from the beginning for safety management. Anyone can easily learn how to use them. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced skier, carrying a float bag doesn't mean you won't die. Using float bags leads to an understanding of safety on snowy mountains and raises and educates people about the safety of BCs and powder skiing in general.
Reviewer
Kagura Powder Station
Kazuya Igarashi
[Main guide area] Entry from the BC gate at the top of Kagura Ski Resort No. 5 Romance Lift / Other areas: Spring Tateyama, Gassan
,
Mt. Trained by Satoya, Miura, Tsukuda, and Hara.
He worked with Yuichiro Miura and was active in Snow Dolphin. In 2008, he climbed Mount Everest with Mr. Currently supporting Kagura Powder Station as a BC ski/climbing guide. [Qualifications held]
・JMGA Ski Guide His Stage I
・JMGA Climbing Guide Stage II
BLACK DIAMOND | Dawn Patrol 32
Equipped with a wealth of functions, the 32ℓ is suitable for one-day tours. The front avalanche tool pocket can store items such as a hydration system, soft flask, and small radio. The back panel can be fully opened with a zipper, allowing for easy loading and unloading of luggage. Made from 100% recycled fabric.
Capacity: S/M=30ℓ, M/L=32ℓ
Size (height x width x depth): S/M (back length = 41-48cm), M/L (back length = 47-55cm) cm
Weight: 1200g
Color: Storm blue (black, 2 colors)
¥31,130
Click here for the official website
“A design specific to the backcountry is good”｜KinTouN Backcountry Guide Kenichi Minegishi
The capacity is just right. Designed specifically for the backcountry. The waist belt pocket is large and very convenient to use.
Reviewer
KinTouN Backcountry Guide (KinTouN)
Kenichi Minegishi
[Main guide area] Kanetsu area
[Profile]
Backcountry guide since 2003.
Hosts a members-only club and camp in an old folk house called Kaze no Tani in Yamakita Town in western Kanagawa Prefecture. Together with members connected through the backcountry, they are building campsites and playgrounds in the mountains using DIY methods. ``I want to ski on a natural snowy mountain just as I ski on waves, which are the energy of nature, and I want to climb a mountain with my own feet and ski as I want.It's because of the risk that I felt freedom.'' [Qualifications]
・JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
Deuter | FREESCAPE LITE 26
This technical pack prioritizes functionality and portability for winter. It's especially great for one-day backcountry tours. It can accommodate skis and snowboards, as well as two external ice axes. It also has dedicated pockets for avalanche gear and goggles
Capacity: 26 liters
Size (H x W x D): 64 / 30 / 22 cm
Weight: 1180 g
Color: Marine x Ink
¥27,500
Click here for the official website
"It's easy to walk and the capacity is just right." | Kuroda Mountain Guide Office, Makoto Kuroda
This backpack is unusual among recent small backpacks in that it has an A-frame, allowing you to carry skis on your back. This has the advantage of making it stable and easy to walk in difficult situations where you have to carry skis on your back. For this reason, it is recommended for people who don't usually hike in the mountains, who are concerned about their physical condition, or who are small and worried about being blown around by the wind. The capacity is just right, so pack as much as will fit inside
Reviewer
Makoto Kuroda Kuroda Mountain Guide Office
[Main guide area] Focusing on Joshinetsu, to the area of your choice
[Profile]
A private guide with a small number of people, supporting a mountain trip full of originality that suits each level.
We provide services that value not only skiing but also the spirit of travel. [Qualifications]
・International mountain guide
・JAN avalanche operator Level 2
GREGORY | Verte 24
Freeride's hipbelt moves with your body, giving you freedom of movement and support with just the right amount of tension. Gregory's signature hydration sleeve, back panel with snow removal function, vintage zipper with side gussets, durable padded front pocket for storing avalanche gear, and zipper pulls and buckles that are easy to open and close even with gloves on make it extremely easy to use. .
Capacity: 24ℓ
Weight: 1150g
Size (height x width x depth): 48.5 x 27 x 20.5cm
Color: Carbon bronze
¥36,300
Click here for the official website
"Light and compact" | Rhythm Works Ryuta Asahi
This is a model I personally use for tours where the hikes are short and the riding is the main focus. Its simple design and hip belt, which resembles a goggle strap, make it easy to move around in, and it can store not only avalanche gear but also emergency preparedness equipment. I like how compact it is
ReviewerRhythm
Works
Ryuta Asahi
[Main guide area] Shirakawago, Tateyama, Hakuba, Hirayu, Hoki Daisen *Mainly Hida Mountains and Ryohaku Mountains
[Profile]
Climb the mountains throughout the four seasons according to the rhythm of nature.
A multi-purpose mountain guide who conveys the appeal of a wide range of mountains, from general traverses to variation routes, mountain climbing to backcountry riding. [Qualifications held]
・JMGA Mountain Guide Stage I
・JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
・JAN Avalanche Worker Level 2
GREGORY ｜TARGHEE FT35
The separate top section allows you to easily access the contents of the main pack, you can attach skis without taking the pack off, the zippers are easy to use even when wearing gloves, and the hip belt webbing is completely removable.Each part is lightweight and removable, so you can choose the parts you need and reduce excess weight, which is ideal for one-day tours
Capacity: 35ℓ (S/M) 38ℓ (M/D)
Weight: 1300g (S/M) 1430g (M/D)
Size (H x W x D):
71.1 x 28 x 25.4cm (S/M) 76.2 x 28 x 25.4cm (M/D)
Color: Spark Navy (Ozone Black, 2 colors available)
¥38,500
Click here for the official website
"Around 35L is a good size for versatility, including day trips." | Infield Toyokazu Nakano
The TARGHEE FT35 has the same basic performance as the Targhee, and is an easy-to-use pack for backcountry use, with excellent storage for a shovel and probe. Generally, a 35L pack is a good size for everything from day trips to overnight stays in mountain huts, making it versatile. While it doesn't have rear access, it's easy to use for those who prefer top-loading packs. Not only is it comfortable and fits well, but its slim design means it won't be shaken around by your luggage while you're skiing
Reviewer
Infield
Toyokazu Nakano
[Main guide areas] Myoko, Kubiki area, Hokushin / Other: Mt. Tateyama, Mt. Chokai, etc.
[Profile]
After moving to Myoko Kogen and gaining 10 years of experience, he started "Infield" in 2006. He currently works as a backcountry tour guide and telemark ski instructor in the winter, and as a mountaineering/trekking guide and sea kayak guide in the summer.
[Qualifications]
JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
, JAN Avalanche Worker Level 2
Klättermusen ｜Ull Backpack 30L
A lightweight ski touring backpack designed for half-day or full-day missions. Ergonomically designed. The original 210 denier ripstop fabric is water resistant to 10,000mm. It has a simple structure that opens and closes with a drawcord, and a closure system that can be opened and closed with one hand, making it easy to load items from the top. Compression is also possible with a one-roll top. The loop webbing on the outside allows you to attach all kinds of equipment such as poles and ice axes.
Capacity: 30 liters
Size (H x W x D): 58 x 29 x 16 cm
Weight: 843 g
Color: Snow Burnt Russet (6 colors available)
¥52,800
Click here for the official website
"It's lightweight and comfortable to wear, so I recommend it." | CIRCLE GAME guide service Shohei Sasaki
This is a smaller-capacity model of the Trud 44L. It has no rain cover and a roll-top design, so it can be compressed to fit the amount of luggage you have. It's lightweight and comfortable to carry, making it a recommended choice
Reviewer
CIRCLE GAME guide service
Shohei Sasaki
[Main Guide Area] Hokkaido
[Profile]
Born in Nanae Town, Hokkaido. Based in Sapporo, he guides backcountry skiing in the winter and guides a wide range of Hokkaido's nature in the summer.
He likes to combine climbing and skiing. [Qualifications held]
・JMGA Climbing Guide Stage II
・JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
MAMUUT｜Nirvana 30
Equipped with full access from the back, jacket carrying system, safety gear storage front pocket, hydration system compatible, removable padded hip belt, integrated helmet carrier, etc. Excellent fit. It also features the use of recycled materials. The attachment of the ski can be 2way of A frame diagonal.
Capacity: 30ℓ
Weight: 1,350g
Size (height x width x depth): 52.5 / 28 / 15.5cm
Color: sapphire-black (black, hot red-black, 3 colors in total)
¥30,800
Width: 28.0cm, Height: 52.5cm, Depth: 15.5cm
Click here for the official website
"Backcountry specific gear is definitely more convenient" | POWERZONE Hakuba Mamoru Takahashi
If you're going to use it in the backcountry, a backpack designed for backcountry use is definitely the most convenient. This size (30L) is also the most convenient
Reviewer
POWERZONE
Hakuba Mamoru Takahashi
[Main guiding area] Hakuba, Otari
[Profile]
As a backcountry guide and ski coach, he travels all over Japan as a mountain guide in the summer, supporting the power zone. He fell in love with the scenery of Hakuba in Shinshu and settled in Hakuba, where he devotes his days off to training to improve his skills.
[Qualifications]
JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
, JMGA Mountaineering Guide Stage II
, SAJ Ski Instructor
MAMUUT | Trion 35
This is a long-established model from MAMMUT in the alpine backpack category. It is renowned for its high-quality materials and excellent finish. It features ultra-lightweight and highly breathable EVA padding, a large zipper on the back for access to the main compartment, a large zippered front pocket for storing avalanche gear, and a large top opening for superior usability. The ski attachments on the sides are reinforced for durability
Capacity: 35 liters
Weight: 1480g
Size (H x W x D): 60 / 29 / 11cm
Color: Marine Black (Hot Red - Marine 2 colors available)
¥33,000
Click here for the official website
"Highly recommended for a day trip to BC!" | Niseko Mecca's Hisataka Tanaka
This backpack is especially recommended for day BC hikes. Its vertical form allows for double axes to be attached. It's stress-free when exploring alpine areas.
The flap allows for approximately 40 liters of luggage to be stored. The back zipper allows for easy access even when the backpack is in A-frame mode, making it extremely user-friendly.
Reviewer
Niseko
MeccaHisataka Tanaka
[Main guiding area] All of Hokkaido (Asahikawa, Furano, Kiroro, Rusutsu, Mt. Yotei, Niseko)
[Profile]
In addition to the mountains of Hokkaido, he has also experienced climbing in Squamish, BC, Canada, climbing and hiking in the Canadian Rockies, backcountry skiing, tramping, climbing and backcountry skiing on New Zealand's South Island. He has been working as a guide in Niseko since 2002.
[Qualifications]
JMGA Mountain Guide Stage II
, JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
, NZMSC Avalanche ST1
MILLET ｜d tour 30
This medium-capacity snow pack for ski touring focuses on safety performance. A detachable
safety gear pocket offers great convenience. The main compartment can be accessed from the side. Other functional pockets and attachments allow you to quickly access and store your essential gear, reducing clutter while on the move. It's packed with features to make climbing and riding more comfortable, including ski holders that are compatible with both A-frame and diagonal skis, an ice axe holder on the front that's easy to access, and a helmet holder.
Capacity: 30+10 liters
Weight: 1038g
Size (H x W x D): 52 / 27 / 18cm
Color: RED/SAPHIR (BLACK 2 colors available)
¥37,400
Click here for the official website
"The simple functionality made for BC is great" | Vertical Land, Hiroki Ito
It's made specifically for backcountry use, and is minimalist and free of unnecessary items. The 30L capacity allows you to eliminate unnecessary equipment and makes packing simple and lightweight
Reviewer
Vertical Land
Yuki Ito
[Main guide area] Around Hakuba Village, Nagano Prefecture, Northern Alps
[Profile]
At the age of 21, he moved to Canada and started skiing in earnest.
He was influenced by North American ski culture, and at the same time he became interested in mountain skiing. After completing the Yamnuska Mountaineering School, he returned to Japan and opened his own business in January 2020. His guiding concept is “More mountains in life. [Qualifications]
JMGA Mountain Guide Stage I
JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
CAA Operation Level 1 (CAA: Canadian Avalanche Association)
OSPREY | Solden 32
The fit is excellent while providing sufficient capacity. She is a popular model that receives high praise from users who place particular emphasis on slippage. She has very good balance, and by dispersing the load, you won't feel the weight when carrying it on your back. Two-chamber structure with rear access and rain cover. There is also a small storage space on the waist belt, which is convenient for storing food and small items. The 2023/24 model uses 100% Bluesign® certified recycled fabric and PFAS-free DWR processing.
Capacity: 32 liters
Weight: 1,150g
Size (H x W x D): 54/ 31/28cm
Color: Black (Artisan Yellow, 2 colors available)
¥27,500
Click here
for the official website
"The design is perfect and the capacity is just right." | RIKI JAPOW GUIDE Riki Nakajima
The design hits all the right spots, with essential rear access, a goggle pocket to prevent scratches, a zippered pocket and gear loops on the hip belt, dual-position helmet carry, and just the right amount of capacity
Reviewer
RIKI JAPOW GUIDERiki
NakajimaRiki Nakajima
[Main guide area] Around Tomamu, Around Furano, Around Asahikawa / Others: Niseko, Rusutsu, Nozawa Onsen
[Profile]
Qualified as a CSIA instructor in Whistler, Canada and the first Japanese CFSA free ski instructor.
From participating in numerous free ski competitions, he expanded his field of activities to the backcountry. Currently, Hoshino Resort's Tomamu ski resort is the base, and he is developing guides and lessons. [Qualifications]
・JMGA Climbing Guide Stage Ⅱ
・JMGA Ski Guide Stage Ⅱ
・JAN Avalanche Worker Level 1
"Models with open backs are especially recommended for beginners" | BLUECLIFF Tomoo Takimoto
Backpacks with opening backs are easy for beginners to use. The Soleden 32 is lightweight yet packed with features such as storage space for avalanche gear and a helmet holder
Reviewer
BLUECLIFF
Michio Takimoto
[Main guide area] Hakuba Otari, Northern Alps, Hokkaido
[Profile]
At the age of 19, he became interested in climbing, including the Mont Blanc Major route and the North Face of Dru.
Since then, he has been active all over the country, focusing on free climbing and backcountry snowboarding. In 2000 he moved to Hakuba Village and started mountain guiding activities. [Qualifications held]
・UIAGIM
・IFMGA International Mountain Guide
Patagonia Snowdrifter Pack 30L
This versatile pack is designed for all-day backcountry use, features a dedicated avalanche gear compartment, and is easily accessible through the back panel while gear is still loaded. It's made from 100% recycled materials
Capacity: 30 liters
Weight: 1,191g
Size (H x W x D): 54 x 30 x 17cm (S/M), 59 x 30 x 17cm (L/XL)
Color: Shrub Green (Black, 2 colors available)
¥23,100
Click here for the official website
"The rear access is convenient and simple to use." - Kazuya Furuse
The recommended points are that the rear access is easy to use and it is simple and easy to use
Reviewer
LOCUS GUIDE SERVICE
Kazuya Furuse
[Profile]
As a result of his pursuit of skiing, his field changed from ski resorts to the backcountry, where he gained experience as a skier and guide.
[Main guide area] Hakuba area
[Qualifications]
JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
, JAN Avalanche Worker Level 2
PLUS ONE WORKS｜SHUMARI 35
Convenient roll-top gear rack, safety gear stored in dedicated compartment. Rear access, pocket for 2 goggles. The shoulder straps and frame are designed for the Japanese body shape to reduce the weight of the luggage and hinder movement during gliding. .
Capacity: 35ℓ
Weight: 1700g
Size (back length): 50cm
Color: Navy, Glass HoperSilver, Coke Red (all 4 colors)
¥25,300
Click here for the official website
"Even beginners can enjoy a comfortable day at BC" | COLOR SPORT CLUB Tomohiro Shagawa
The SHUMARI 35's rigidity prevents the backpack from swaying, reducing the strain on the body that can come with carrying it for long periods of time and preventing fatigue. This stability is especially appreciated by beginners unfamiliar with mountain activities. Its simple design makes it easy to use, and it's conveniently divided into separate compartments for storing gear that gets snowy, including skins and shovels and probes, and for items you don't want to get snow in. It has
dedicated pockets for backcountry gear, and the roll-up access opening is convenient for accessing helmets and other items. The rear access and long back length make it a great design for beginners. The thin design of the backpack itself also shifts the center of gravity closer to the body when skiing, making it an easy backpack to ski with.
Reviewer
COLOR SPORT CLUB
Tomohiro Tonegawa
]
Hakuba VALLEY (Hakuba, Otari, Omachi) / Others: Tateyama, Senjojiki, Myoko, Mt.
Since the early 1990s, he has turned his attention to the off-piste and opened up the mountain ski scene in the midwinter. Pioneer work continues even after achieving field development throughout Hakuba, which is synonymous. [Qualifications]
・JMGA Mountain Guide Stage Ⅱ
・JMGA Ski Guide Stage Ⅱ
・JAN Avalanche Worker Level 2
SALOMON｜MTN15・MTN30
MTN15
Developed based on Salomon's expertise in trail running backpacks, this backpack features a form-fitting design that adapts to the intense movements of snowy mountains, a compact size that doesn't interfere with skiing, and lightweight comfort. The 15-liter capacity is sufficient for half-day to full-day backcountry skiing. The full-zip rear panel allows easy access to your gear, and the highly waterproof fabric makes it ideal for use in bad weather
Capacity: 15ℓ
Weight: 701g
Size (back length): 50cm
Color: Black/White (Fiery Red/Fiery Red 2 colors)
¥18,700
Click here for the official website
MTN30
Developed based on Salomon's trail running packs, it offers excellent mobility, stability, and comfort. It features a full zip for easy access from the back, highly waterproof fabric, and a built-in hydration system
Capacity: 30ℓ
Weight: 911g
Size (height x width x depth): 56 x 26 x 22cm
Color: Fiery Red/Fiery Red (Black/White, 2 colors)
¥22,000
Click here for the official website
"15 liters for lift-access powder and side country, and 30 liters for backcountry." | Coyote Ryuta Furuichi
I use Salomon's "MTN30" for backcountry skiing, and its smaller "MTN15" for lift-access powder and sidecountry skiing. The two reasons I recommend it are:
- Light overall weight.
- There's a pocket on the shoulder of the backpack, which is just right for storing a radio. -
There's also a pocket and gear rack on the waist belt, which is convenient for storing small items you want to have quick access to, like sunscreen. - The gear rack can hold
carabiners, slings, small knives, and other gear you want to have quick access to.
- You can also enter from the back, so you can access your water bottle, snacks, and warm clothing without having to take your luggage from the top, without getting them wet.
- Reasonably priced!!
Reviewer
Mountain Guide Coyote
Ryuta Furuichi
[Main guide area] Hokkaido (Niseko, Mt. Yotei, Kiroro, Mt. Daisetsu, Furano area)
[Profile]
Interested in the environment and food. Entered the company.
In addition, he founded his Mountain Guides Coyote to feel close to nature and practice low impact living. He loves telemark skiing down snowy mountains. [Qualifications]
・JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
・JAN Avalanche
The North Face ｜CHUGACH28
This model has ample capacity for everything from side country to light one-day trips, and features panel loading for minimal movement while riding. The main fabric is made of lightweight, durable material. The front panel is equipped with an avalanche pocket. The main compartment can be accessed from the back panel, which opens wide. Other features include a snowboard and ski carrier, a helmet holder, and other parts that are easy to operate even when wearing gloves
Capacity: 45 liters
Weight: M: approx. 1,950g, L: approx. 2,010g
Size (back length): M: H64.5 (79.5) x W29.5 x D16cm, L: H68 (83) x W30 x D16cm
Color: TNF White (Black, Cave Blue, 3 colors available)
¥41,800
Click here for the official website
"It's comfortable to wear and easy to access gear." | Natures Shinya Nakagawa
Comfortable to wear, easy access to avalanche gear, and back access makes it easy to take out your belongings even with skis or snowboards attached
Reviewer
Natures
Shinya Nakagawa
[Main guide area] Northern Hokkaido area near Asahikawa
[Profile]
Started snowboarding at the age of 14 and obtained the official professional qualification from the JSBA (Japan Snowboard Association) in 2000.
Fascinated by the world of the backcountry, he shifted his focus to video and photography. He felt the joy and charm of mountains and nature, and wanted to provide safe and enjoyable mountain trips, so he decided to work as a guide. He started ``Natures'' in 2011 after working as a nature conservation monitor for Mt. Asahidake. [Qualifications held]
・JMGA Climbing Guide Stage II
・JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
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