Backcountry Special Feature | How to Get Started, Attractions, Guides, Tours, and Risks

Whether you're making your backcountry debut this year or looking to further improve your skills, we've compiled information to help you with your backcountry lifestyle, including how to get started, what makes backcountry skiing so appealing, what equipment you need, recommended gear, ski resorts with gate access, guide club introductions, tour reports, and more

■ First, learn about backcountry skiing

We'll review the appeal of backcountry skiing, how to get started, and a list of necessary equipment. We'll also introduce you to backcountry skiing areas with gate access from ski resorts

■ Introduction to backcountry

How-to videos

■Tour Report

Reports on backcountry tours from various locations

■Risk management and the importance of guide clubs

To avoid risks in snowy mountains and enjoy backcountry skiing safely, we recommend checking for potential risks in advance and joining a guide club. When using a guide club, use the nationwide guide club list. There is also information on recommended tours for beginners starting out this year

■Get to know the guide

Backcountry guides are experts who use their vast knowledge and experience to provide an indescribable skiing experience while ensuring safety on snowy mountains. This book takes a closer look at the personalities and guiding of up-and-coming guides who have chosen to become professional guides and are slowly and steadily delving deeper into this world

■Key points to consider when choosing the right gear for backcountry skiing

This book covers essential backcountry gear, including backpacks, avalanche gear, beacons, and stickers, and includes tips on choosing the latest models. It also delves deeper into backpacks and layering

■What are skins (climbing skins) for skiing up mountains?

Climbing skins are an absolute must-have for anyone wanting to go backcountry skiing. You may know what they are, but you may not know the specifics. You may think you know, but you may actually have some misconceptions. In this article, we'll take a closer look at skins, which are essential for climbing

■A thorough explanation of the types of boots and bindings for backcountry freeride and how to choose them

Tech bindings and boots are designed for skiing, with diverse climbing in mind. Here we compare the popular Shift binding and Duke PT. We introduce boots compatible with tech bindings and recommended tech binding models

■How to choose ski gear that will last a lifetime

Skis, boots, bindings, clothing, helmets, goggles... Before choosing your gear, you need to know the names and functions of each part and component, as well as the criteria and types for selection. Let's review the basic knowledge of each piece of gear. Now you too can become a gear master!