Backpacks are used to pack all the necessary equipment when heading out into the backcountry (BC). Not only are they important for safety, but because you'll be skiing with them on, they also have a major impact on the quality of your skiing. Choosing the right backpack is important to ensure you enjoy BC to the fullest and safely. We asked BC specialists and guides what backpacks they use for one-day tours and what makes them great. There are many points to consider when choosing your next backpack
Makoto Kuroda | Kuroda Mountaineering Office
Versatile and easy to carry
FREERIDER 30 | Deuter
Although it looks simple, it is versatile enough to be used in a variety of situations. This model excels in a modest spec: ease of carrying, which you only realize after a long day. It is also durable enough that it does not suffer from the distortion that is common with lightweight packs. The A-frame makes it easy to carry, so even small or weak people can use it with confidence
When I'm working as a guide, I use the more versatile Freescape Pro 40, and when I'm on a private trip where I can share equipment, I use this more compact model. For women and smaller men, I recommend the women's model SL. (Makoto Kuroda)
Deuter
FREERIDER 30
Capacity: 30L
¥18,700 / Available in 4 colors
Maintaining a consistent shape from top to bottom improves fit and reduces weight while skiing. It also features convenient back access, a large front pocket for storing safety gear, and a top pocket for storing goggles and gear straps. The ski attachment allows for two ways: A-frame or diagonal
◆Official Website:https://www.iwatani-primus.co.jp/deuter_alpinesnow/
[Profile]
Makoto Kuroda (Kuroda Mountain Guide Office)
A private guide specializing in small groups, supporting unique mountain expeditions tailored to each individual's skill level. He values not only skiing but also the spirit of travel in his service.
http://gravityguides.net/
Hisataka Tanaka | Niseko Mecca
Very easy to use and suitable for serious backcountry skiing
Niravana 30 | MAMMUT
This backpack is versatile enough for everything from off-piste skiing to high alpine terrain. It's incredibly user-friendly, with a well-placed external helmet holder, clearly located and large pockets for avalanche gear, and a one-touch ice axe attachment. It's perfect for serious backcountry skiing.
(Hisataka Tanaka)
MAMMUT
Nirvana30
Capacity: 30L
¥23,100 / Available in 3 colors
It offers a variety of features, including full rear access, a jacket carrying system, a front pocket for safety gear, hydration system compatibility, a removable padded hip belt, and an integrated helmet carrier. It also offers an excellent fit and is made with recycled materials. It features two-way ski attachment: A-frame and diagonal
◆Official Website:https://www.mammut.jp/items/2560-00071o
【Profile】
Hisataka Tanaka(Niseko Mecca)
He has experience climbing in the mountains of Hokkaido, as well as overseas, including climbing in Squamish, British Columbia, Canada; climbing and hiking in the Canadian Rockies; backcountry skiing; and tramping, climbing, and backcountry skiing on the South Island of New Zealand.
http://www.niseko-mecca.com/
Tomohiro Shakawa ｜COLOR SPORT CLUB
The rigidity reduces strain on the body, allowing you to spend the day in comfort
SHUMARI 35 & 50 ｜ PLUS ONE WORKS
It's simple yet highly versatile. It features dedicated pockets for storing essential backcountry gear, and a roll-up access opening makes it easy to store everything from helmets to crampons, or any additional gear you might have. The backpack's rigidity minimizes the strain on your body caused by carrying it for long periods of time, ensuring a comfortable day
Even when forced to switch from climbing skins to crampons, the backpack securely holds and supports the skis, making the added weight almost imperceptible. I also use the SHUMARI 50 (50L).
(Tomohiro Shakawa)
SHUMARI 35
PLUS ONE WORKS
Capacity: 35L
¥25,300 / Available in 4 colors
The bag features a convenient roll-top gear rack and a dedicated compartment for storing safety gear. It also features rear access and a pocket for two pairs of goggles. The shoulder straps and frame are designed to fit the Japanese body type, reducing the weight of the luggage and reducing interference with movement while skiing. The waist harness fits snugly around the pelvis, preventing the luggage from swaying sideways
◆Official Website:https://www.full-marks.com/plusoneworks/
[Profile]
Tomohiro Tonegawa (COLOR SPORT CLUB)
A pioneering figure who built the backcountry scene from the early 1990s to the present day. COLOR SPORT CLUB operates not only BC guiding services but also a lodge, cafe, and shop. His pioneering work continues even after developing the entire Hakuba area.
http://www.colorsportclub.com/
Jun Nagai | JUNRINA mountain service
There are so many good points!
RUSH SK 32 BACKPACK｜ARC'TERYX
There are many things I like about using it in the mountains
1. It looks cool!
2. Designed for backcountry use, it offers balanced and comfortable carrying.
3. It has a simple yet lightweight construction, and is highly weather-resistant, durable, and waterproof.
4. The removable helmet attachment system is convenient.
5. The roll-top design allows for several liters of extra capacity depending on the number of rolls.
6. The wide side zipper makes it easy to access the contents.
7. Gear can be attached and customized with silicone bands, etc.
8. The back length can be selected in short/regular sizes to suit different body sizes.
(Jun Nagai)
ARC'TERYX
RUSH SK 32 BACKPACK
Capacity: 32L
¥36,300 / Available in 2 colors
The roll-top design allows for expansion from 32 liters to a maximum of 40 liters. This new backpack features a strong fabric for increased durability while remaining lightweight. It's optimized for backcountry touring, offering balance, weather resistance, and organization. Skis can be attached to the A-frame
◆Official Website:https://arcteryx.jp/
[Profile]
Jun Nagai (JUNRINA mountain service)
After leaving his corporate job, he worked at Tateyama Raichoso while undergoing guide training, and has been operating as JUNRINA mountain service since 2010. He and his partner Rina work as mountain guides in the Alps and Joshinetsu region during the summer and autumn, and as backcountry ski guides during the winter and spring.
https://www.junrina.com/
Toyokazu Nakano | Infield
The quality of your skiing will not be affected by your luggage
TARGHEE FASTTRACK 35 | GREGORY
Its slim silhouette makes it easy to carry, and you won't be bothered by your gear while skiing. The way it neatly stores and easily accesses avalanche gear like shovels and probes is another point I'd like to recommend.
(Toyokazu Nakano)
GREGORY
TARGHEE FASTTRACK 35
Capacity: 35L
¥36,300 / Available in 3 colors
This pack is packed with features, including a Fast Track carry system that lets you attach skis without taking off the pack, a front pocket for avalanche gear for quick access, a full-length side-access zipper with a locking slider, a separate top section for easy access to the contents of the main pack, a helmet carrier, and a shoulder harness compatible with hydration tubes
◆Official Website:https://www.gregory.jp/item/detail/TARGHEE32_F86_1/1017
[Profile]
Toyokazu Nakano (In-Field)
He began his outdoor activities through the Boy Scouts in his childhood, and after graduating from high school, he enrolled in a national park ranger training course at a vocational school. After graduation, he discovered the appeal of Myoko Kogen and its surrounding areas as a field and moved there. After 10 years working as a guide and instructor, he started his activities as In-Field in 2006. Currently, he works as a backcountry tour guide and telemark ski instructor in winter, and as a mountain climbing/trekking guide and sea kayaking guide in summer.
https://www.in-field.com
Kenichi Minegishi一| Backcountry Guide KinTouN
Very lightweight and easy to pack
Circle 35 | Black Diamond
It's extremely lightweight, makes it easy to pack your gear separately, and the side zippers make it easy to access your gear even with your skis on
The most distinctive feature is the shape of the opening. When you pull the cord, the flap, which is integrated with the main body, closes like a rain cover. To open it, you simply pull the loop-shaped tape and it opens completely, making it very quick to access the contents of the backpack. I find it especially convenient when it's snowing. Because you can quickly and smoothly take things in and out, you can work without getting the contents of the backpack as wet as possible. (Kenichi Minegishi一)
Black Diamond
Circle 35
Capacity: 35L
¥24,640 / Available in 2 colors
It features the essential backcountry functionality while maintaining a clean silhouette reminiscent of a climbing pack. It also features a stowable helmet flap, a flexible hip belt, and hydration system compatibility. It also offers two-way ski attachment: A-frame and diagonal
◆Official Website:https://www.lostarrow.co.jp/store/g/gBD46214001004/
[Profile]
Kenichi Minegishi (KinTouN)
His passion for backcountry skiing began with surfing, and he has been a backcountry guide since 2013. "Just like riding the waves, which are the energy of nature, I wanted to ski on natural snow-covered mountains, climb the mountains with my own two feet, and ski as I pleased. The risks are what give me a sense of freedom. I want to continue backcountry skiing for the rest of my life."
https://kintoun.jp/
Riki Nakajima | RIKI JAPOW GUIDE
The design is perfect and the capacity is just right
Soulden 32 | Osprey
With its essential rear access, a goggle pocket to prevent scratches, a zippered pocket and gear loops on the hip belt, a dual-position helmet carrier, and many other thoughtful design features, and just the right capacity, this backpack is perfect for those who need it.
(Riki Nakajima)
OSPREY
Solden 32
Capacity: 32L
¥19,800 / Available in 2 colors
It offers ample capacity and an excellent fit. This popular model is especially popular among users who prioritize skiing. Its excellent balance distributes the load evenly, making it lightweight when worn. It features a two-chamber design with rear access and a rain cover. The waist belt also has a small storage compartment, making it convenient for storing snacks and small items
◆Official Website:https://www.lostarrow.co.jp/store/c/c20/
[Profile]
Riki Nakajima (RIKI JAPOW GUIDE)
While studying in Whistler, Canada, he obtained CSIA instructor certification and became the first Japanese person to obtain CFSA freeski instructor certification. He has expanded his activities from participating in numerous freeski competitions to backcountry skiing. He is currently based at Hoshino Resorts Tomamu Ski Resort, where he provides guiding and lessons.
https://www.rikijapowguide.com
Hiroki Ito | Vertical Land
Equipped with all the easy-to-use functions specialized for mountain skiing
MATRIX 30 | MILLET
It has all the easy-to-use features specifically designed for ski mountaineering, such as diagonal ski attachment, external storage space for axes and crampons, and a flat silhouette that fits your back
The external crampon pocket and its location. I was once in the middle of a steep slope and had to change from skis to crampons, and it was very helpful to have quick access even in unstable places. The crampon pockets on the side of the backpack also prevent the weight of the crampons from causing me to lose balance while skiing
The ice axe is also attached to the side, which provides good balance while skiing.
When I was on long mountain hikes where I was carrying my skis, I sometimes took an alpine climbing backpack, but my center of gravity shifted too far back, and I missed this backpack.
The contact points between the backpack and the skis, and the straps that secure the skis, are reinforced with rubber, making them very durable. I've been using it for four or five years now, and it's still in great condition without any holes. The straps are reinforced because the edges of the skis often scratch the backpack when climbing or hiking for long periods while carrying skis, so this reinforcement is essential for the longevity of the backpack. (Yuki Ito)
MILLET
MATRIX 30 (reference product)
Capacity: 30L
¥19,800 / Available in 2 colors
The Mobility Back System provides stability and adapts to your movements. The asymmetrical design is highly effective, allowing for diagonal ski attachment without interference with your feet. It also features a helmet holder, crampon pocket, rope holder, and safety gear compartment
◆Official Website:https://www.millet.jp/
[Profile]
Yuki Ito (Vertical Land)
At the age of 21, he moved to Canada and began skiing seriously. Influenced by North American skiing culture and local skiers, he also developed an interest in mountain skiing. After completing the Yamnuska Mountaineering School, he returned to Japan and joined a mountaineering club to learn more about the mountains. He became independent and started his own business in January 2020. His guiding concept is "More mountains in your life."
https://www.verticalland.jp/
Yuu Takeo｜Bantei ～bamboo tail～
Reduces the risk of being buried in the event of an avalanche
FLOAT 32 ｜BCA
This backpack is equipped with an airbag. In the event of an avalanche, the chances of being buried are significantly reduced. Many skiers and snowboarders from Europe and America use airbag-equipped backpacks, but they are not yet widespread in Japan. I hope that awareness of risk avoidance in the snowy mountains will increase, and that more people in Japan will start using them. With that message in mind, I actively use it as a guide.
(Yuu Takeo)
BCA
FLOAT 32
Capacity: 32L.
The set, including the main unit and cylinder, costs 106,700 yen
. This is BCA's FLOAT series airbag. It features a cylinder filled with compressed air, and the air pressure drives a turbine inside the unit, drawing in ambient air and opening a balloon at the top of the backpack, reducing the risk of burial in deep water through buoyancy. The mechanical trigger makes it easy to get a feel for how it works. Available in 12, 22, 32, and 42L sizes.
◆Official Website:http://www.k2japan.com/brand/bca.html
[Profile]
Yu TAKEO (bamboo tail) -
20 years of experience as a guide. He shares the joy of backcountry riding, drawing on nearly 30 years of snowboarding experience. He is also dedicated to promoting backcountry safety through activities such as developing beacon checkers and conducting beginner workshops.
https://bambootail.com/
Iwao Saeki | Tyrol
It has many excellent features and is easy to use for both skiing and snowboarding
STASH30｜BCA
Access from the back panel is excellent.
Also, the material on the inside of the back panel, shoulder straps, and waist belt (the side that touches the body) is smooth and finely textured, making it less prone to snow accumulation and freezing. The waist belt height is adjustable, ensuring a comfortable fit. Even when fully loaded, there's ample space for avalanche gear, including climbing skins. It has many excellent features and is easy to use for both skiing and snowboarding.
The 30L size is perfect for those who use it throughout the season. It's especially recommended for group leaders or anyone who needs to carry emergency supplies.
(Iwao Saeki)
BCA
STASH 30
Capacity: 30L,
¥24,200 / Available in 2 colors.
Features include zipper back panel access, options for carrying ice axes, skis, and snowboards, a fleece goggle pocket, dehumidifying holes, and most importantly, an anti-freeze stash hydration sleeve, with a sleeve on the other sideBC Linkfor.
◆Official Website:http://www.k2japan.com/brand/bca.html
[Profile]
Iwao Saeki (Tyrol)
He has been familiar with mountaineering and ski mountaineering since childhood. He competed in the Inter-High School Championships and other competitions in competitive skiing during middle and high school. Afterward, he devoted himself to competitive canoeing. He returned to the mountaineering world after winning an award at the National Sports Festival. He specializes in mountain ski guiding. He supported the filming of the movie "Tsurugidake: Ten no Ki" as a mountain guide.
http://www.t-tyrol.com/index.html
Jun Horie | Backcountry Glide Niseko
BCA
STASH 30
Capacity: 30L,
¥24,200 / Available in 2 colors.
Features include zipper back panel access (except for the Stash 20), options for carrying ice axes, skis, and snowboards, a fleece goggle pocket, dehumidifying holes, and most importantly, an anti-freeze Stash hydration sleeve, with a sleeve on the other sidea BC Link.for mounting
◆Official Website:http://www.k2japan.com/brand/bca.html
[Profile]
Jun Horie (Backcountry Glide Niseko)
Seeking skiing techniques, he moved to Austria and lived in Tyrol for 15 years. He is both a ski instructor and guide. In skiing, he is meticulous about outward leaning posture and the quality of transitions depending on the situation, and about the foul line on slopes.
http://bcglide.com/
This is how professional guides use their gear!
We got a peek inside their favorite backpacks.
We asked Iwao Saeki and Jun Horie, two of the backcountry guides introduced in this article, to show us what kind of equipment they pack in their backpacks and show us the contents of their packs. The backpacks they used on Mt. Tateyama in May were both BCA STASH30s. While the equipment used in the spring season is slightly different from that used in the dead of winter, the video gives a clear understanding of the essential equipment and the pack's capacity and storage capacity
