The Akiyama season is in full swing! And with that, we're two months into the 2021/2022 powder snow. Hoping for a strong winter in Japan, now's the time to get your hands on the latest gear. This season is packed with comfortable, warm, and performance-enhancing gear. We'll introduce the latest layering gear (excluding outerwear) that will come in handy throughout the season, from the deepest winter to the remaining snow
ACLIMA
https://www.full-marks.com/aclima/
A mulesing-free wool clothing brand that boasts an 83-year history and is nurtured in the Nordic Norwegian wilderness.
Wool net original Long Shorts 8,800 yen / Sizes XS-2XL / 1 color available
This flagship model from ACLIMA is crafted from high-quality merino wool, carefully sourced from carefully selected farms and cultivated in the natural environment. With a weight of 200g per square meter, it's perfect as both a base layer and a lightweight mid-layer. It keeps your skin dry and maintains a constant body temperature. Its natural antibacterial properties also suppress the bacteria that cause body odor. Flatlock seams are comfortable against the skin, and the drop-tail silhouette provides deep coverage. This unparalleled underwear is crafted with attention to detail, not just in the fabric, but also in the stitching and cutting
These tights are made with wool mesh, which retains body heat while releasing excess heat. They're ideal for long tours that involve hiking uphill. Comfort is ensured down to the smallest detail, with flat seams that don't cause friction and a highly stretchable, soft wool waistband. This is an above-the-knee model that's perfect for spring mountain climbing, but they also offer a below-the-knee model that pairs well with long socks, and an ankle-length model
ARC'TERYX
the world of high-performance, smart outdoor wear
from Canada, a major outdoor play country.
24,200 yen / Sizes XS-XXL / 5 colors available
This versatile fleece is flexible, lightweight, and just warm enough to offer three distinct qualities. Its abrasion resistance, four-way stretch, and blanket-like feel are all thanks to Polartec® Power Stretch® Pro. Its relatively thin fabric allows for easy movement even when layered, and allows moisture to escape smoothly. Its minimalist design, with only two zippered hand pockets and a helmet-friendly hood, allows for compact carrying. This versatile hoodie can be used year-round, from a mid-layer in the harsh winter to a warm layer on the mountains in summer
35,200 yen / Sizes XS-XXL / 6 colors
This insulated jacket is made of flexible fabric and contains synthetic fiber batting. It can be used as an outer layer, but it also works well as a mid-layer while on the move, as it allows moisture to escape. It maintains its loft and keeps you warm even in harsh environments where you're wet from sweat or snow, making it a reliable piece of clothing. It packs compactly, so you can slip it into a corner of your backpack for year-round thermal wear
14,300 yen / Sizes S-XXL / 4 colors
This zip-up base layer offers excellent insulation. The high collar keeps your neck warm, where blood vessels pass, and the zipper opens wide to let in fresh air. Its simple design features a single zippered laminated chest pocket with no stitching that can cause stress on the skin. It's comfortable to wear, quick-drying, and breathable, making it ideal for a variety of outdoor activities
ARMADA
The original rider's brand that is now the most influential and popular in the freeride world
27,500 yen / Sizes S-XL / Available in 2 colors
This lightweight down jacket can be stored in a chest pocket. It's a versatile model that can be worn as an inner layer under outerwear during the harsh winter months, or as a portable winter jacket during the spring season. Its slightly loose, new standard fit allows for easy movement even when worn over a fleece. Its attention to detail, including a music pocket with a headphone port and a microfleece chin guard, ensures that this jacket is sure to bring out its full potential
HOUDINI
https://www.full-marks.com/houdini/
A revolutionary Swedish brand with many fans thanks to its earth- and human-friendly manufacturing and natural colors.
23,100 yen / Sizes XS to XXL / 4 colors available
This next-generation fleece uses Polartec® Power Air Light, which prevents microfiber shedding from polluting the ocean. While the material is cutting-edge and aggressive, the cut and silhouette evoke the image of a casual sweatshirt. This contrast is what makes it so appealing. The clean neckline makes it easy to layer with multiple layers, such as a zip-up undershirt or an inner down jacket. From the snowy mountains of Hokkaido to the bustling streets of the city, this crew neck fleece from Sweden allows for seamless mobility in every sense
Activist Tights (right) 11,000 yen / Sizes XS-XXL / 2 colors
This natural base layer is made from a blend of Tencel, which is refined from wood pulp, and Merino wool. The moisture-retaining and temperature-regulating properties of natural fibers keep you cool when it's hot and warm when it's cold. It also prevents the growth of odor-causing bacteria and static electricity, while its inherent flexibility ensures incredible comfort. Its snug fit allows for easy movement, even when layered over pants. It's earthy clothing that keeps your skin gentle and comfortable all year round
MILLET
Celebrating its 100th anniversary this year! A leading European mountain brand born in the European Alps
31,900 yen / Sizes XS and up / 2 colors
This insulated hoodie features Polartec Alpha Direct, a brushed fabric that combines warmth and breathability, on the inside. It retains warm air while allowing moisture to escape, making it ideal for use as a mid-layer during the harsh winter months and as an outer layer during snowy periods. The outer fabric, BREATHER, is water-repellent and windproof, allowing you to wear it even in light wind and snow. When it's cold, slip it on as a balaclava-style hoodie to keep out the cold, and when it's hot, open the double-slider zipper on the front to let in fresh air. Introducing a warm, breathable mid-layer that can also serve as a fleece alternative, offering innovative warmth and breathability
19,800 yen / Sizes XS-XL / 2 colors
This thermal layer is made from a special material that sandwiches Polartec Alpha insulation, which has moderate warmth and excellent breathability, between mesh fabric. It is flexible, thin, and highly stretchable, allowing for a variety of layering patterns, such as wearing it directly over a base layer or combining it with other mid-layers. When not in use, it is much more compact than fleece, making it easy to carry. It keeps out the cold and allows moisture to escape even when moving vigorously, maintaining a comfortable clothing environment. A comfortable and reliable high-performance mid-layer that you'll want to wear from the moment you leave home to the summit
16,500 yen / Sizes XS/S, M/L / 3 colors available
This hybrid base layer is made with 70% high-quality merino wool and synthetic materials. Cutting-edge knitting technology creates a lightweight, warm, three-dimensional waffle structure. The waffle structure also reduces stress on the skin, providing a soft feel while enhancing breathability and quick-drying properties. This piece offers the benefits of wool, including odor resistance, moisture control, and temperature regulation. This innovative model utilizes the knitting method optimally to create a comfortable, form-fitting undergarment that allows for freedom of movement.
Text by Shinya Moriyama
PART 2 is here
