For backcountry guides who escort guests through the ever-changing natural environment, being able to "move quickly and efficiently" and "use their hands accurately" are extremely important factors. It goes without saying that gloves play a major role in providing safety, security, enjoyment, and comfort to guests. Let's find out what kind of gloves professional guides trust and use, and hear their professional tips for using them in the mountains
"When it's cold, I use the ARC'TERYX Fission SV, and when hiking or when it's not too cold, I use the Venta AR." - Daichi Terui
ARC'TERYX | Fission SV Gloves
This is ARC'TERYX's warmest model. The combination of abrasion-resistant, waterproof, and breathable materials protects your hands in a variety of BC conditions. Two types of PrimaLoft® Silver and Gold insulation provide the ultimate in warmth. The lining uses breathable Octa® Loft, which maintains optimal humidity inside the glove. High-quality double-layered goat leather adds durability. It's also easier to put on and take off
Color: Black (2 colors in total)
Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
¥25,300
◆Official website is here
ARC'TERYX | Venta Gloves
These gloves are made with GORE-TEX INFINIUM™, which offers excellent windproof, water-resistant, and breathable properties. These lightweight softshell garments are resistant to wind and rain. The brushed lining provides a thick, warm feel, and the outer layer is perfectly suited to snow and light rain. The gloves offer increased grip and are less likely to absorb moisture, allowing you to use your smartphone or touchscreen while wearing them
Color: Black (2 colors in total)
Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
￥9,900
◆Official website is here
[Favorite model and why]
I like the ARC'TERYX Venta AR when hiking or when it's not too cold. It's very easy to use, so I also use it for ice climbing. When it's cold, I use the ARC'TERYX Fission SV 5-finger.
[How I use gloves]
I always carry three types: thin, medium, and thick.
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
"I love Black Diamond. I always have several models with different thicknesses and uses." - Toyokazu Nakano
Black Diamond | Spark
spark
*Sold out.
The corresponding model for the 2022-2023 season is the Mission.
Black Diamond | Mission
The combination of Gore-Tex® and PrimaLoft® Gold provides durability and warmth. The palm is made of soft and durable goat leather, and the back is made of ripstop polyester. This versatile model is perfect for all backcountry activities
Color: Cork/Brown (2 colors in total)
Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
￥10,570
◆Official website is here
Black Diamond | Impulse
Made from supple and durable goat leather, these gloves feature Gore-Tex® and PrimaLoft® Gold Cross Core for superior warmth. EVA padding on the back of the hand and thumb enhances protection. The neoprene cuff keeps your wrist warm and provides a comfortable fit. These high-end freeride gloves are designed with a focus on functionality and a design that's perfect for connoisseurs
Color: Cork/Brown (2 colors in total)
Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
¥25,630
◆Official website is here
Black Diamond | Arc
The shell is made of highly stretchable nylon and features a BDRY insert for excellent waterproof and breathable properties. These gloves are designed based on motocross gloves and emphasize maneuverability
Color: Cork/Brown (2 colors in total)
Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
¥13,500
◆Official website is here
[Favorite Model and Why]
My main glove was the Black Diamond Spark. I mainly used them when skiing in cooler temperatures. They're a basic glove that offers a good balance of warmth and supple leather for easy pole grip. I like them because they offer a good balance of warmth and suppleness. I like to tuck my gloves inside the cuffs of my jacket, so I choose a model with a clean wristline.
Unfortunately, the Spark is no longer available for the 2022-23 season, but similar models, the Mission and Impulse, are now available, so they seem like a good choice.
For climbing in cooler temperatures and spring tours, I use the Black Diamond Arc. This model has a good fit and excellent maneuverability, making it my most versatile and frequently used glove. It's also highly waterproof, making it suitable for rainy days.
[Glove Usage Tips] I
always make sure to have multiple glove models with different thicknesses and uses. I bring different combinations depending on the season and the tour, such as cold weather gloves, models with high maneuverability, and models with high waterproofness. Personally, I don't like layering inner gloves.
Reviewer
Infield
Toyokazu Nakano
[Main guide areas] Myoko, Kubiki area, Hokushin area / Other: Mt. Tateyama, Mt. Chokai, etc.
[Qualifications]
JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
, JAN Avalanche Worker Level 2
"I love the HESTRA model, which has good heat retention and allows me to do detailed work with five fingers." - Kazuya Igarashi
HESTRA｜HELI ski GTX
Made from supple, strong, and highly grippy goat army leather and 4-way stretch nylon with a GORE-TEX membrane. It has a two-layer lining, so you can leave the liner out during warmer months
Color: Black
Size: 6-10 size guide
¥30,800
◆Official website is here
HESTRA｜Windshield Liner
This liner is made of wind-resistant windshield material. The palm is made of polyester fleece, and the sidewalls are made of breathable mesh. The palm and fingertips feature grip print, and the thumb and index finger are touchscreen compatible. It can be used as a liner for gloves with interchangeable liners
Material: 91% Polyester/ 9% Tricot, Fleece Cuff, Grip Print, Touch Point (forefinger and thumb)
Color: Black
Size: 6~10 Size Guide
¥6,380
◆Official website is here
[Favorite model and why]
HESTRA's HELI ski GTX and Windshield Liner. They have good heat retention and the five fingers allow for fine work.
[Tips for using gloves]
I carry over-mittens, spring gloves for hiking, and spare gloves.
Reviewer:
Kagura Powder Station
Kazuya Igarashi
[Main guide area] All directions entering from the BC gate at the top of the mountain with the 5th Romance Lift at Kagura Ski Resort / Other: Spring tours of Mt. Tateyama, Mt. Gassan, Mt. Fuji, etc.
[Qualifications]
JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
JAN Avalanche Worker Level 2
"It fits your hand well, is easy to move around in, and is warm" - Hiroki Ito
HESTRA | Army Leather Couloir
The Ergo Grip is designed with patterning and three-dimensional cutting to make it easier to grip the poles. The palm is made of durable and strong goat leather and nylon fabric mixed with a waterproof and breathable membrane. The back of the hand is made of supple cowhide leather molded into an accordion pattern. The short cuff with Velcro closure is made of neoprene for a comfortable fit
Color: Cork/Brown (4 colors)
Size: 6-10 size guide
¥18,484
◆Official website is here
[Favorite model and why]
HESTRA's Army Leather Couloir. It fits my hands well and is warm. The cut allows for easy hand movement.
[Tips for using gloves]
I bring the above gloves as well as thicker ones for the harsh winter (thick woolen gloves, etc.).
Reviewer:
Yuki Ito Vertical Land
[Main guiding area] Hakuba Village, Nagano Prefecture, Northern Alps
[Qualifications]
JMGA Mountain Guide Stage I
, JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
, CAA Operation Level 1 (CAA: Canadian Avalanche Association)
"Anywhere within the ski area is fine!" Makoto Kuroda
HESTRA｜3-Finger Full Leather
The three-finger model, an iconic HESTRA product, perfectly combines the outstanding warmth of mittens with the maneuverability of five-finger mittens. It allows for effortless pole handling, and the three fingers (middle, right, and little) each have their own lining, providing excellent warmth and a secure fit.
The exterior is made of soft cowhide leather, while the palm is made of durable goat leather and supple cowhide leather. The polyester liner inside is removable.
Color: Yellow/Cork (5 colors)
Size: 6-10 size guide
¥18,150
◆Official website is here
[Favorite model and why]
Hestra's three-finger model. Warm and no problem with rope operation. Perfect for anywhere you ski.
[Tips for using gloves]
I have at least two pairs of gloves in different thicknesses. I keep an extra pair in case a customer loses one. Thick inner layers reduce blood circulation and make it even colder, so I'd rather buy thicker gloves than add an inner layer.
Reviewer
Kuroda Mountain Guide Office
Makoto Kuroda
[Main guide area] Centered around Joshinetsu, to the area of your choice
[Qualifications]
International mountain guide
, JAN avalanche worker Level 2
"The heat retention combined with workability is unmatched." - Satoshi Tsukahara
HESTRA ｜ Ergo Grip Active Wool
The new Ergo Grip Active glove is a classic lightweight glove with a wool lining. The wool lining provides slightly improved warmth, softness, and a pleasant feel against the skin. Perfect for winter hikes and spring skiing
Color: Navy (4 colors)
Size: 6-10 size guide
¥15,950
◆Official website is here
[Favorite model and why]
I only use HESTRA Ergo Grip Active Wool. Its warmth combined with workability is unmatched.
[How I use gloves]
Lately, I only use the same spare Ergo Grip Active.
Reviewer:
Satoshi Tsukahara of Hokkaido Backcountry Guides
[Main guiding areas] Kiroro, Niseko, Akaigawa area / Other: All of Hokkaido
[Qualifications]
JMGA Mountain Guide Stage I
, JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
, Director of the Hokkaido Mountain Guides Association
"Breathable material for comfort, five-finger design for excellent gear grip" Tomohiro Shagawa
HESTRA｜Omni GTX Full Leather
This Japan-exclusive model was created in response to requests from guides and riders who ski Japan's snowy mountains. The palm is made of durable and strong goat leather, while the instep and sides are made of supple cowhide leather, ensuring optimal placement of materials. The five-finger design with an outseam reduces unnecessary pressure on the fingertips, offering excellent maneuverability. The entire interior is lined with a waterproof, breathable GORE-TEX membrane, ensuring reliable protection from snow
Color: Bordeaux (6 colors)
Size: 5~10 size guide
¥19,250
◆Official website is here
[Favorite model and why]
I use HESTRA's Omni GTX Full Leather gloves. They're breathable and comfortable, and the five fingers give me great grip on gear. I use them as a set with overgloves when it gets cold.
[Tips for using gloves]
I always have a thin inner layer on hand. To combat the cold, I pair them with overgloves that have enhanced Gore-Tex functionality.
Reviewer
COLOR SPORT CLUB
Tomohiro Tonegawa
[Main guide area] Hakuba Valley (Hakuba, Otari, Omachi) / Other: Tateyama, Senjojiki, Myoko, Mt. Fuji
[Qualifications]
JMGA Mountain Guide Stage II
, JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
, JAN Avalanche Worker Level 2
"The ErgoGrip allows you to do detailed work without stress." Akiko Nakae
HESTRA | Ergo Grip Active
The palm is made of goat leather and features GORE Windstopper for excellent wind and water resistance. It has a highly insulating liner, yet is thin and easy to use. The ErgoGrip is ergonomically designed with 3D cutting and stitching to fit the natural curve of the hand when relaxed. It's easy to grip, allowing for stress-free fine work, and it's comfortable to wear for long periods of time
Color: Black (5 colors)
Size: 6-10 size guide
¥14,850
◆Official website is here
[Favorite model and why]
The thin and comfortable Ergo Grip Active gloves are useful for hiking uphill on warmer days or when rope work is required. The slight warmth and Ergo Grip allow for stress-free, delicate work.
Also, because I have extremely cold extremities, mittens are essential in the harsh winter. HESTRA mittens are reasonably easy to use, allowing me to attach and remove seals without removing them.
[Tips for using gloves]
I wear five-finger, stretchy gloves under my mittens. Diligently repairing the holes in the fingertips helps keep them from getting cold. If I ever need to dig a snow cave, keeping them dry is the most important thing, so I keep spare Temres in my backpack.
Reviewer:
Akiko Nakae, Epic Japan
[Main guide areas] Hakuba, Nozawa Onsen, Myoko, Togakushi, Tateyama / Other: Hokkaido: Asahikawa, Furano area, Eastern Hokkaido, Niseko
[Qualifications]
JMGA Ski Stage II
, JMGA Mountain Guide Stage II
, JAN Avalanche Worker Level I
"I like the wool innerwear because it doesn't get sticky even when I sweat." - Kazuya Furuse
HESTRA ｜Leather Wool
The gloves are made of all-leather and include a removable wool liner. The palm side is made of durable goat leather. The upper side is made of soft, supple cowhide leather for improved comfort and operability. The inside of the upper is lined with a warm, brushed wool liner, which maintains heat even when slightly humid
Color: Cork/Brown (3 colors)
Size: 6-10 size guide
¥19,250
◆Official website is here
[Favorite model and why]
HESTRA Leather Wool is a highly efficient five-finger type that is characterized by its excellent heat retention. I like the wool inner because it doesn't get sticky even when I sweat.
[Tips for using gloves]
I always bring spare gloves. I use handcuffs and am careful not to lose my gloves in strong winds. I don't want my gloves to get wet, so I try not to climb in just the inner layer when it's snowing or let my outer layer hang down.
Reviewer
LOCUS GUIDE SERVICE
Kazuya Furuse
[Main guide area] Hakuba area
[Qualifications]
JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
, JAN Avalanche Worker Level 2
"Genuine leather doesn't get wet and is flexible, making it easy to do detailed work." - Yuu Takeo
HIMARAK｜1.5.1
These mittens are made from water-repellent cowhide and meticulously tailored and sewn in a domestic factory. They have few seams, making them waterproof and durable. The leather is sewn in a way that wrinkles the skin, preventing direct contact with the stitching threads and preventing fraying even when rubbing your hands against hard snow. The
removable inner gloves are made of the heat-storing material Thermotron, and come with JAGER gloves for even greater warmth. Ideal for use in the harshest winters, they are especially popular with snowboarders.
Material: Cowhide suede outerwear
Size: S, M, L, XL
Color: Navy
￥23,100
◆Official website is here
[My favorite model and why]
HIMARAK is a manufacturer that uses genuine leather. Genuine leather, including the inner layer, does not get wet, so genuine leather gloves are my only choice for BC. The leather is given an original look with oils and other treatments, which makes it cool. It also allows for flexible movement, making it easy to do detailed work.
[Tips for using gloves]
Combining over-mittens, thin five-finger gloves, and inner gloves
Reviewer
Bantei ~bamboo tail~ (Bantei)
Yu TAKEO
[Main Guide Area] Hakuba area
[Qualifications]
JMGA Ski and Snowboard Guide Stage II
, Mountaineering Guide Stage II
"I use three different thickness types of MAMMUT depending on the activity and weather" - Iwao Saeki
MAMMUT｜ La Liste Glove
These lightweight, warm gloves are made from stretch fleece. They're great for adding insulation as a liner in snowy conditions. Made with ECONYL® recycled nylon and spandex, the stretch fleece dries quickly and is easy to care for. They're stretchy and offer excellent warmth. These touchscreen gloves are compatible, allowing you to use your smartphone without removing them
Color: Black
Size: 6-10 Size Guide
¥19,250
◆Official website is here
MAMMUT｜ Astro Guide Glove
The outer layer is made of windproof and breathable GORE-TEX, while the inner layer is made of supple, water-repellent goat leather. The stretch neoprene cuff with adjustable hook-and-loop fasteners provides a snug fit, and the ergonomic design ensures fine fingertip movement, making it easy to handle gear at the base camp
Color: Black
Size: 6-10 Size Guide
¥13,750
◆Official website is here
MAMMUT｜ Stretch Glove
These lightweight, warm gloves are made from stretch fleece. They're useful as an insulating liner for snow activities. Made with ECONYL® recycled nylon and spandex, the stretch fleece dries quickly and is easy to care for. They're stretchy and thin, yet offer excellent warmth. These touchscreen-compatible gloves allow you to operate your smartphone without removing them. Despite their versatility, they're also very reasonably priced
Color: Black
Size: 6~10 Size Guide
¥5,390
◆Official website is here
[Favorite model and reason]
I carry three types of Mammut gloves: thick, medium-weight, and liner gloves.
[How I use gloves] I use
thin gloves when hiking. I use medium-weight gloves when skiing. I have thick gloves for when it's cold.
Reviewer
Tyrol
Iwao Saeki
[Main guiding area] Toyama Prefecture, Mt. Tateyama / Other: Mt. Tateyama, Mt. Tsurugi, Hakuba, Myoko
[Qualifications]
JMGA Mountain Guide Stage II
, JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
"It's durable, soft, and warm. It's perfect for me, as my fingertips get cold easily." - Kenji Akutsu
SCOTT | Explorer Plus
It's easy to move around in, has excellent maneuverability, and is durable and warm. The shell is made of 90% goat leather and 90% nylon, with GORE-TEX Windstopper material for high durability and breathability, allowing sweat to evaporate. The padding is filled with Primasoft for excellent warmth. It's also windproof, allowing you to stay comfortable all day long
Color: Black/Burnt Orange (2 colors)
Size: S, M, L, LL
¥18,480
◆Official website is here
The leather is durable, yet soft and warm. Its excellent heat retention makes it perfect for me, as my fingertips tend to get cold easily. The reinforced index finger and thumb also make it hard to get holes in them, even when using them heavily during lessons and guides
Review by
Telemark School & Ski Guide Izumiya AK.T
Kenji Akutsu
[Main guiding area] Fukushima Prefecture: Minamiaizu, Hinoemata area
[Qualifications]
JMGA Mountaineering Guide Stage II
, JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
, TAJ Telemark Ski Instructor
"Impressions for skiers who are sensitive to the cold and dislike wearing inner gloves" by Shohei Sasaki
Swany Gloves｜Sisam
This under-cuff model features a short cuff that's easy to grip and operate, and can be stored in the cuffs of your WEAR. It's made entirely of soft, water-repellent goat leather (the palm cuff is made of fabric), and the lining is made of bamboo, which has a deodorizing effect. The zipper makes it easy to put on and take off. It also features a GORE-TEX insert
Cold Level -15 to -5℃:
Color: NV (4 colors)
Size: 7, 8, 9, 10 Size Guide
Size: XS, S, M, L
￥18,700
◆Official website is here
Swany Gloves｜Union Full leather
Made entirely of leather with a GORE-TEX insert for excellent water resistance and breathability, it offers a comfortable grip that feels like bare hands, providing outstanding operability. Soft, water-repellent goat leather is used throughout. Durable and warm. The unique Pre-Curve cutting maintains a natural hand position and reduces strain on the hands. This under-cuff model can be stored in the cuffs of your clothing. Available in nine colors and women's sizes
Color: BK (9 colors in total)
Size: (Mens) XS, S, M, L (Womens) XS, S, M
¥19,250
◆Official website is here
Swany Gloves｜Spring Glove
The three-dimensional cut pattern provides an excellent fit, boasting high operability that feels like bare hands. The upper material, GORE-TEX INFINIUM, combines wind resistance and breathability, making it comfortable even during intense exercise, as it does not get stuffy or cold from sweat. It also has excellent water resistance and breathability. This under-cuff model can be stored in the cuffs of the WEAR. The cuffs are adjustable tab type
Color: Cork/Brown (2 colors in total)
Size: (Mens) XS, S, M, L (Womens) XS, S, M
¥13,200
◆Official website is here
SHOWA | Cold Weather Temres
These polyurethane gloves are highly breathable and waterproof, blocking water while allowing moisture to escape. They're incredibly thin and light, yet feature a non-slip coating to prevent slipping and keep you dry. They maintain flexibility even in temperatures as low as -60°C, allowing for smooth bending and straightening of the fingers. They offer exceptional security when working on snow. Though thin, they're lined with soft, boa-type fleece for warmth. These incredibly useful items are surprisingly affordable
Color: Olive green (2 colors)
Size: M, L, LL, 3L
¥2,200
◆Official website is here
My Favorite Model and Why:
This review is for skiers who are sensitive to the cold and dislike wearing inner gloves. The Swany Gloves Sisam offers an excellent balance of warmth and maneuverability. As a guide, I strive to perform all backcountry tasks efficiently and quickly.
High-warmth models are difficult to work in, and I struggled to find the perfect pair. However, since discovering the SIsam, I've essentially been using this model exclusively during the peak season. I
wear the Union Full Leather on days when the temperature is around 0°C. It's my favorite model, with a great fit and stylish design. I always keep it in my backpack as a secondary glove during the peak season. I
wear the Swany Gloves Spring Glove on days when the temperature is above 0°C. It's thin and offers excellent maneuverability. I use them for a variety of occasions, from spring alpine climbing to autumn trekking and skiing. I
also wear the Thermal Temres on days when the temperature is above 0°C. They're useful when I need to avoid getting my gloves wet, such as when taking shelters during breaks or digging snow caves.
[Tips on how to use gloves]
I always bring two pairs of gloves. In the peak season, I use Sisam as my main pair and Union Full Leather as my secondary pair, depending on the temperature. I also use Spring Gloves and Thermal Temless gloves depending on the season, such as in spring. When it's unbearably cold in the dead of winter, I slip a disposable non-stick type of mini warmer into my gloves and I can spend the day happily.
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
"I'm currently using a gift I received and the innerwear is from Patagonia."
TRUCK gloves | M1
The back and palm of the hand are made of goat leather, which is waterproof, durable, and breathable. The palm is further reinforced to withstand tough use. The inside is lined with warm, brushed polar fleece, ensuring reliable warmth. These gloves have even been awarded an editor's choice by an overseas ski magazine as a glove for backcountry use
Color: Cork/Brown (2 colors)
Size: 3-11
$35.00
◆Official website is here
Patagonia Capilene Midweight Liner Gloves
Capilene Midweight Liner Gloves
These versatile liner gloves feature a smooth, soft outer surface that's easy to layer with, while the hollow yarn and diamond grid pattern inner lining provides warmth, moisture management, and quick drying
Color: Cork/Brown (2 colors in total)
Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
￥6,600
◆Official website is here
[Favorite model and why]
M1 TRUCK gloves. The inner layer is Patagonia's Capilene Midweight Liner Gloves. The reason I use M1 is because I received them as a thank you gift from photographer Jay, who came to Shirakawa-go with the Utah crew.
[How I use gloves]
In the harsh winter, I carry a different type of glove as a backup in addition to my main pair.
Reviewer:
Rhythm Works (Rhythm Works)
Ryuta Asahi
[Main guide areas] Shirakawa-go, Tateyama, Hakuba, Hirayu, Hoki Daisen *Mainly the Hida Mountains and Ryohaku Mountains
[Qualifications]
JMGA Mountain Guide Stage I
, JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
, JAN Avalanche Worker Level 2
