Behind the majestic beauty of nature, snowy mountains also lurk dangers. Professional guides, who ensure the safety of their guests, act appropriately, and teach the joys of backcountry skiing, are true snow mountain specialists. But what kind of gear do they use? What is the "reliable gear setup" chosen by professionals who are forced to deal with all kinds of slopes and snow conditions on the untouched snowfields that stretch out before them?
*For detailed information about a guide club, click on the guide club name and go to the guide club introduction page on STEEP!
CIRCLE GAME guide service | Shohei Sasaki
I don't want to compromise on the glide, but I want to make it as light as possible
GEAR Setup
SKI: Vector Glide | nadurra185
BINDINGS: Marker | KINGPIN m-werks12
BOOTS: K2 | MINDBENDER130
POLPOLE: Vector Glide | v stick straight 115cm
As a skier, I don't want to compromise on performance, but I want it to be as light as possible. While this may seem selfish, I believe this setup is what users are most looking for.
The nadurra is a wide model with a 115mm center, but I was able to enjoy it all season long on this one ski, from the deep, airy snow of Mt. Asahi to the alpine snow of Mt. Rishiri to the corn snow of Mt. Tateyama. The skis' side curve is not too sharp, so edge grip is strong and reliable, even when climbing or descending on hard snow. I've been
using the KINGPIN for about five years, and it's one of my most trusted pieces of gear, with no major issues. By following the same rules as other companies' products, such as keeping the toe piece down (spring compressed) when not wearing the boots and thoroughly clearing snow before changing modes, the risk of damage should be greatly reduced.
The MINDBENDER is a boot that is wide, warm, not too heavy, and can push the snow, making it a boot I can recommend to anyone.
I don't think that skiers need telescoping poles, and their light weight significantly improves swing balance. As a guide, I get asked by customers three or four times a year during the season, "Isn't that a telescopic pole?" If you think you've been tricked, I recommend you try using a straight pole at least once!
Reviewer
CIRCLE GAME guide service
Shohei Sasaki
[Main Guide Area]
[Profile]
Born in Nanae, Hokkaido. Based in Sapporo, he guides backcountry skiing in the winter and guides a wide range of Hokkaido's natural scenery in the summer. He likes to combine climbing and skiing.
[Qualifications]
JMGA Mountaineering Guide Stage II
, JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
COLOR SPORT CLUB ｜Tomohiro Sagawa
A setup with excellent rigidity and power transmission, and excellent gliding and off-road performance
GEAR Setup
SKI: TONES SKI | KANBA & HANDS
BINDINGS: FRITSCHI | TECTON 13
BOOTS: K2 | MINDBENDER 120
By using FRITSCHI's Tecton skis with Japanese-made TONES SKI skis, you can expect a more reliable sense of rigidity and a balanced connection with the snow, ensuring a quality that won't wear out. Each ski's shape offers excellent glide, maneuverability, stability underfoot, and a sticky tail. The skis' unique characteristics, including their excellent flavor and balance, are exquisite. Furthermore, the
Tecton skis feature a toe-release function, a rarity among tech bindings, and maximize the heel's secure fit, resulting in a reliable transmission of power from the boot to the binding and then to the skis. From the reliable rigidity of the boots to the sensation of the entire sole gripping the snow, these boots are sure to enhance your skiing experience.
Reviewer
COLOR SPORT CLUB
Tomohiro Tonegawa
[Main guiding areas] Hakuba Valley (Hakuba, Otari, Omachi) / Others: Tateyama, Senjojiki, Myoko, Mt. Fuji
[Profile]
A pioneer who built the backcountry scene that continues to this day. Since the early 90s, he has turned his attention to areas outside the slopes, pioneering the mountain ski scene in the harsh winter. Even after achieving the development of the entire Hakuba area, which is synonymous with his name, his pioneering work continues.
[Qualifications]
JMGA Mountain Guide Stage II
, JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
, JAN Avalanche Worker Level 2
Epic Japan | Akiko Nakae
Its high maneuverability and stability make it suitable for women and people with small builds to enjoy BC
GEAR Setup
SKI:BLASTRACK ｜Massive116
BINDINGS:G3 ｜Zed12
BOOTS:DYNAFIT｜TLT SPEEDFIT
POLE:BLASTRACK ｜Backcountry Pole
BLASTRACK products are made in Japan, so they are highly reliable and of high quality. The Massive 116 also offers excellent glide even in deep powder, and since it's available in sizes starting from 165cm, it's perfect for women and smaller riders, offering maneuverability and stability in deep snow and technical terrain, making it ideal for backcountry skiing. Backcountry boots require lightness and maneuverability during transitions, which is essential when skinning up, where you'll spend most of your time. The DYNAFIT TLT series offers an excellent balance of performance and feel in these areas.
I also think BLASTRACK poles are T-grip, but once you try them, you'll never want to let go of them for stability during skinning up. They're also very convenient for hanging small items.
Reviewer:
Akiko Nakae, Epic Japan
[Main guide areas] Hakuba, Nozawa Onsen, Myoko, Togakushi, Tateyama / Other: Hokkaido: Asahikawa, Furano area, Eastern Hokkaido, Niseko
[Profile]
Until high school, he participated in alpine skiing and participated in the Inter-High School Championships and the National Athletic Meet. After that, he discovered mountain skiing and began spending every weekend in the snowy mountains. In 2014, he put an end to his life as a salaryman in Tokyo and became a representative of Epic Japan.
[Qualifications]
- JMGA Ski Stage II, Mountain Guide Stage II
, JAN Avalanche Worker Level I certified
Infield ｜Toyo Nakano
A telemark setup that offers the best balance of lightness and gliding performance
GEAR Setup
Ski: Black Diamond | Heliocarbon 104
Bindings: 22 Designs | Lynx
Boots: Scarpa | TX
Poles: Black Diamond | Laser Carbon Pro Poles
As a telemark ski for backcountry tours, I feel that it is the best combination when considering the balance between light weight and smooth gliding. Skis with a center width of 104mm are suitable for everything from deep snow in the harsh winter to early spring when the snow has not yet hardened, so they are the skis I use most often
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
Kagura Powder Station | Kazuya Igarashi
Use three different setups depending on the time and situation
GEAR Setup
SKI: K2｜MINDBENDER 116C, DISPATCH 110, WAYBACK 106
BINDINGS: Marker｜KINGPIN m-werks12, alpinist9
BOOTS: K2｜MINDBENDER 130, DISPACHI LT
POLE: BCA｜ SCEPTER CARBON ALUMINUM
K2 skis deliver top performance in a variety of conditions, including powder and backcountry. K2 boots are lightweight and offer a wide range of motion, allowing for increased speed and less fatigue when hiking. They maintain a firm flex when descending, providing a reliable glide. Regarding my individual setup... I've been
using the K2 MINDBENDER 116C (186cm) with Marker Kingpin m-werks12 skis from the start of the season through early April in powder and deep powder. The 116c skis offer excellent overall balance and stability, providing excellent maneuverability in a wide range of terrain, from slopes to deep powder. In particular, the top swing weight is easy to control in powder, making turn initiation comfortable. I've
also used the DISPATCH 110 (179cm) with Marker Kingpin m-werks12 skis for long trips and powder skiing. The skis are lightweight and comfortable, even on long trips. The camber isn't too deep, allowing for a balanced experience of both gliding and sliding.
I've been using the WAYBACK106 (179cm) with Alpinist 12 skis for long touring trips, starting with spring snow in mid-March, including Mount Gassan, Mount Chokai, Mount Tateyama, and Mount Fuji. The lightweight skis and bindings allow for stable, fatigue-free climbs, even on long, steep climbs. The excellent balance of wood and carbon fiber, along with the titanium plate underfoot, provides firm grip on uneven slopes and icy terrain, providing stability in a variety of conditions.
The K2 MINDBENDER 130 boots are used with the K2 MINDBENDER 116c skis. Lightweight and easy to climb, they offer solid flex during downhill runs, allowing for confident alpine skiing.
The DISPACHI LT skis are used with the DISPATCH 110 and WAYBACK106. They're ultra-lightweight and offer a wide 60-degree range of motion, making them comfortable even on long touring trips. The Vibram sole provides firm support, especially on mixed terrain (rock, ice, steps), allowing for stable climbing like hiking boots. The firm flex ensures stable gliding even when descending.
Reviewer:
Kagura Powder Station
Kazuya Igarashi
[Main guide area] All directions entering from the BC gate at the summit of the 5th Romance Lift at Kagura Ski Resort / Other: Spring tours to Mt. Tateyama, Mt. Gassan, Mt. Fuji, etc.
[Profile]
After being the All-Japan Mogul Champion, he participated in the W-CAP and served as a national team coach, training Satoya, Miura, Tsukuda, Hara, and others. He worked for Yuichiro Miura and was active with Snow Dolphin. He climbed Everest with him in 2008. He currently supports Kagura Powder Station as a BC ski and mountaineering guide.
[Qualifications]
JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
, JAN Avalanche Worker Level 2
Kuroda Mountain Guide Office | Kuroda Makoto
Considering that I will be carrying the guests' skis, I decided to bring lightweight gear
GEAR Setup
Skis: VÖLKL | BLAZE94 Spring
ATOMIC | BACKLAND100 Winter
Banyacraft Original Skis;
Bindings: FRITSCHI | Genic; VIPEC EVO 12
Pole: Black Diamond | Laser Carbon Pro Pole
As a guide, I sometimes have to carry my clients' skis as well, so I use lightweight ones so they don't get in the way. FRITSCHI's Genic is lightweight but sturdy, and it releases properly, so I feel safe. I generally don't push myself too hard on tricky snow, so I don't need bindings that hold down the heel
Reviewer
Kuroda Mountain Guide Office
Makoto Kuroda
[Main guide area] Centered around Joshinetsu, we will guide you to your desired area.
[Profile]
We provide private guides for small groups, supporting original mountain trips suited to each level. We value not only skiing but also the spirit of travel.
[Qualifications]
International mountain guide
, JAN Avalanche Worker Level 2
Locus guide service ｜ Furuse Kazuya
I like the balance between the excellent gliding performance and the lightweight design
GEAR Setup
SKI: VÖLKL | BLAZE106
BINDINGS: Marker | KINGPIN 13
BOOTS: DALBELLO | LUPO PRO HD
POLE: VÖLKL | TOURISTICK CC
I like the balance between the ski's light weight and its powerful gliding, perfect for enjoyable skiing.
The BLAZE106 is truly versatile, and it's perfect for any condition, even in unpredictable backcountry skiing areas. From deep powder in the high season to carving on packed slopes in spring granular conditions, it offers excellent buoyancy and carving performance, all while remaining lightweight. While there are plenty of skis that float better, are lighter, or have more speed, the
KINGPIN's greatest appeal lies in its balance. The product concept behind the KINGPIN is the same as that of skis, so matching is key. When choosing bindings, the most important thing is safety, followed by gliding performance, and finally, lightness. Comfort is something I don't often consider (because I get used to it over time). Safety is only important in an emergency, so it's hard to notice even when using the skis. While many people may prioritize safety and reliability the most, safety and reliability are paramount.
I alternate between LUPO and KRYPTON 130 TIID , but I often use the LUPO with the walk mode function when guiding. Regardless of the manufacturer's shell hardness rating, the lower shell is stronger than other dual-purpose boots, allowing for direct power transfer to the skis. The biggest reason I like these three-piece boots is that the lower shell doesn't collapse or deform even when I lean my knees forward while wearing the boots.
When choosing gear—skis, boots, and bindings—I always try to align the three components. If they're mismatched, the performance of each piece of gear won't be fully realized, so I think that's the most important thing. If I prioritize performance, I'll choose all three. If I prioritize lightness, I'll choose all three. My setup is somewhere in the middle, chosen for a balance of enjoyable performance and a light weight I'm comfortable with.
Reviewer
LOCUS GUIDE SERVICE
Kazuya Furuse
[Main guide area] Hakuba area
[Profile]
As a result of pursuing skiing, the field changed from ski resorts to backcountry, and he gained experience as a skier and guide.
[Qualifications]
JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
, JAN Avalanche Worker Level 2
Mountain Guide Coyote | Ryuta Furuichi
It is very easy to handle and turns smoothly. It is also easy to walk on when climbing
GEAR Setup
SKI: SALOMON | QST BLANK
BINDINGS: ROTTEFELLA | Freedom
BOOTS: SCARPA | TX PRO
The Salomon QST BLANK is extremely easy to handle in fresh snow, allowing for smooth initiation of turns. At the same time, it provides firm support for your feet even under heavy pressure. The wide 112mm center width allows for solid edging even in icy snow. Even when climbing with skis, the skis naturally lift you from deep snow to the surface, making it very easy to walk in and putting less strain on your body
Reviewer
Mountain Guide Coyote
Ryuta Furuichi
[Main guide area] Hokkaido (Niseko, Mt. Yotei, Kiroro, Daisetsuzan, Furano area)
[Profile]
Interested in the environment and food, after graduating from the Faculty of Agriculture at Meiji University, he joined a company in Hokkaido to live in the magnificent Hokkaido. He started Mountain Guide Coyote to feel closer to nature and practice a lifestyle that does not impact the environment. He loves to ski down snowy mountains on telemark skis.
[Qualifications]
JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
, JAN Avalanche Worker Level 2
TERUI DAICHI | Daichi Terui
Lightness, rigidity, and ease of handling are harmoniously combined
GEAR Setup
SKI: ATOMC｜BACKLAND107
BINDINGS:ATOMIC｜SHIFT
BOOTS:ATOMIC｜HAWX ULTRA XTD130
It combines the three elements of lightness, rigidity, and ease of handling at a high level, and is suitable for all conditions
Reviewer
Daichi Terui
[Main guide area] All of Hokkaido
[Qualifications]
JMGA Mountain Guide Stage I
, JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
, JAN Avalanche Worker Level I
Tyrol | Iwao Saeki
This combination of tools you can trust in any situation
GEAR Setup
Ski: K2 | Mindbender 116cm
Bindings: Marker | Kingpin
Boots: K2 | Mindbender Team
Poles: K2 | Freeride 18
As a guide and rider, I need to be able to ski in all conditions. Sometimes I over-spec my gear, and sometimes I want something lighter, but this combination is what I can trust in all situations
Reviewer
Tyrol
Saeki Iwao
[Profile]
Competed in Inter-High School Championships in competitive skiing in junior high and high school. He then became absorbed in competitive canoeing. After winning a prize at the National Athletic Meet, he returned to the mountaineering world. He is best known for mountain ski guiding. He supported the filming of the movie "Tsurugi-dake: Ten no Ki" as a mountain guide.
[Main guiding areas] Toyama Prefecture, Tateyama / Other: Tateyama, Tsurugidake, Hakuba, Myoko
[Qualifications]
JMGA Mountain Guide Stage II
, JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
RIKI JAPOW GUIDE｜Riki Nakajima
Buoyancy, stability, and lightness are all ideal
GEAR Setup
SKI: Rossignol | Super7
BINDINGS: Look | HM Rotation
BOOTS: Rossignol | All trak pro130gw
POLE: Rossignol | Escaper telescopic safety
The buoyancy, stability, and lightness are all ideal. The boots are also designed for hiking without compromising gliding performance, so they can be used in the mountains
Reviewer
RIKI JAPOW GUIDE
Riki Nakajima
[Main guiding areas] Around Tomamu, around Furano, around Asahikawa / Others: Niseko, Rusutsu, Nozawa Onsen
[Profile]
Obtained CSIA instructor qualification in Whistler, Canada, and became the first Japanese to be certified as a CFSA freeski instructor. After participating in numerous freeski competitions, he expanded his activities to the backcountry. He currently provides guides and lessons based at Hoshino Resort Tomamu Ski Resort.
[Qualifications]
JMGA Mountaineering Guide Stage II
, JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
, JAN Avalanche Worker Level 1
Vertical Land ｜Yuki Ito
A great board for enjoying the mountains all year round! Perfect for enjoying the natural terrain
GEAR Setup
Skis: FACTION | Agent 3.0
Bindings: G3 | Zed
Boots: Nordica | Straider 130
Poles: Black Diamond | Laser Carbon
The Agent3.0, with its moderate stiffness in the tail, overall flex, and sidecut, is perfect for having fun on natural terrain. It offers stable control even on slightly rough snow, and the board moves as expected even in powder. It's a board you can use all year round if you're playing in the mountains!
The G3 Zed offers a good balance of lightness and durability. It's perfect for powder season in the mountains of Hakuba. The STRAIDER130 has an alpine boot-like feel and is recommended for those who want to ski down the mountain at high speed. My Black Diamond Laser Carbon poles were passed down to me by a senior colleague, and this year marks their third year. They're durable despite their telescopic function. They're a reliable tool. Their simple design, with only the essentials, makes them easy to use on the mountain.
Reviewer:
Yuki Ito Vertical Land
[Main guiding area] Hakuba Village, Nagano Prefecture, Northern Alps
[Profile]
At the age of 21, he moved to Canada and began skiing seriously. He was influenced by North American ski culture and developed an interest in mountain skiing. After graduating from Yamnuska Mountaineering School, he returned to Japan and opened his own business in January 2020. His guiding concept is "More mountains in your life."
[Qualifications]
JMGA Mountain Guide Stage I
, JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
, CAA Operation Level 1 (CAA: Canadian Avalanche Association)
