Photo credit: Klattermusen/sputnik
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, safely. We asked BC specialists and guides what kind of backpacks they use on a daily basis and what makes them great. There are many points to consider when choosing your next backpack
ARC'TERYX｜RUSH SK 32 BACKPACK
This roll-top backpack can be expanded from 32 liters to a maximum of 40 liters. It features two high-performance materials, optimally positioned for durability and lightweight construction. Its balance, weather resistance, and organization are optimized for backcountry touring. Skis can be attached to the A-frame
Capacity: 32 liters
Size (H x W x D): 63 x 28 x 32 cm
Weight: 920 g
Color: Black (Fluidity 2 colors available)
¥36,300
◆Official website is here
"Lightweight, well-shaped, and has little effect on the center of gravity" by Daichi Terui
I like it because it's light, the pack has a good shape, and doesn't affect the center of gravity
"There are many great things about using it in the mountains!" Jun Nagai
There are many things I like about this bag when using it in the mountains.
1. It looks cool!
2. It's a backcountry bag, designed for balanced and comfortable carrying.
3. It's simple and lightweight, and highly weather-resistant, durable, and waterproof.
4. The removable helmet fastening system is convenient.
5. The roll-top allows you to add several liters of extra capacity by rolling it up.
6. The side zipper is wide, making it easy to access the contents.
7. You can adjust the attachment of gear using silicone bands, etc.
8. You can choose between short and regular back lengths to suit your body size.
ReviewerJUNRINA
mountain serviceJun Nagai
[Main guide areas] Kagura BC, Echigo Yuzawa BC, Tateyama BC (November, April, May)
[Qualifications]
JMGA Mountaineering Guide Stage III
, JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
, JAN Avalanche Worker Level 1
BCA｜FLOAT E2 35L
BCA has released a new battery-powered float bag for the 2022-2023 season. The new E2 system uses Alpride's supercapacitor fan drive system to store energy and power the compressor when deployed. It stores and releases energy based on magnetic energy, not chemical reactions like secondary batteries. This makes it highly reliable, even in low temperatures
Capacity: 35ℓ
Weight: 2,792 g (S/M with E2 system), 2,842 g (M/L with E2 system)
Size: S/M, M/L
Color: Moss Green (all 3 colors)
¥159,500
◆Official website is here
"I hope more people in Japan will use it too - that's the message I want to convey." - Yuu Takeo
Electric airbag. Three zippers provide easy access to the main floor. Because it is an electric airbag, you can practice deploying it. Many skiers and snowboarders from Europe and the United States use backpacks equipped with airbags, but they are not yet widely used in Japan. I hope that awareness of risk avoidance on snowy mountains will increase and more people in Japan will use them. With this message in mind, I actively use it as a guide
Reviewer
Bantei ~bamboo tail~ (Bantei)
Yu TAKEO
[Main guide area] Hakuba area
[Qualifications]
JMGA Ski and Snowboard Guide Stage II
, Mountaineering Guide Stage II
, JAN Avalanche Worker Level 1
"Reliable airbags for the harsh winter" by Iwao Saeki
Airbags are reliable in the harsh winter. The BCA FLOAT E2 35L does not use an air cylinder, so it is lightweight and recharges from a backup battery after one inflation, so you can rest assured that you can use it again after just a few minutes
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
"The float system is extremely reliable" - Kazuya Igarashi
It's lightweight, the pack is well balanced, and has all the features you need in a BC. The float system is solid and very reliable
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
Deuter | FREESCAPE PRO 40+
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
Capacity: 40 + 10 liters
Size (H x W x D): 70 / 32 / 24 cm
Weight: 1500 g
Color: Ink x Marine (Teal x Corn, 2 colors available)
¥28,600 (Price revised from October to ¥30,800)
◆Official website is here
"It's versatile and easy to carry" - Makoto Kuroda
It can be used in many situations, including overnight stays in huts. It's easy to carry, so you don't feel tired even after a full day of activities. It's also nice that few other people are using it. When I'm guiding, I use the more versatile Freescape Pro 40, and when I'm on a private trip where I can share equipment, I use the FREERIDER 30, also from Deuter
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
GREGORY | TARGHEE 32
For the 2022-2023 season, the bag has been updated with a more durable body material and a dedicated front pocket for avalanche gear and snow tools. It also features a flexible perimeter frame, durable anodized aluminum hooks for cold weather durability, full-circumference compression, a stowable and adjustable helmet carrier, and ski carriers compatible with both diagonal and A-frame skis. It also features a shoulder harness with hydration tube access, among many other features, making it a GREGORY staple
Capacity: 30ℓ (S), 45ℓ (M), 48ℓ (L)
Weight: 1370g (S), 1470g (M), 1570g (L)
Size (H x W x D): 59.7/29.2/25.4cm (S)
, 64.9H/29.2/26.7cm (M), 69.9/29.2/26.7cm (L)
Color: Atlantis Blue
¥31,900
◆Official website is here
"I chose the Targhee 32 & 45 because they offer the best capacity for the type of mountaineering I do." Ryuta Asahi
I use the TARGHEE 32 & 45. I choose the optimal capacity depending on the type of mountain climbing I'm doing. The TARGHEE is highly abrasion-resistant, has a material that doesn't easily get snow on it, and has all-around compression, so it supports activities in the snowy mountains
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
GREGORY ｜TARGHEE45
The main compartment has back access. Made with abrasion-resistant, snow-resistant materials, the perimeter frame offers flexibility, durable anodized aluminum hooks for cold weather durability, full-circle compression, an avalanche safety pocket in the front pocket, and a stowable and adjustable helmet carrier. The ski carrier is compatible with both diagonal and A-frame skis. A shoulder harness with hydration tube access and many other features make this a tough backpack perfect for overnight winter trips
Capacity: 45L (M) / 48L (L)
Weight: 1660g (M) / 1740g (L)
Size (H x W x D): 77.5/29.2/29.2cm (M) 82.6/29.2/29.2cm (L)
Color: Atlantis Blue
¥35,200
◆Official website is here
"It's comfortable to wear and fits well, and the luggage doesn't shake around while you're skiing." - Toyokazu Nakano
As a backpack for backcountry use, it fits a shovel and probe very well. It has enough capacity to hold the gear needed for guiding, and the back is fully open, making it easy to access and use. Of course, it's comfortable to wear and fits well, so your gear won't shake around while you're skiing
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
Klattermusen ｜Trud Backpack 44L
Lightweight and durable, this backpack is ideal
fabric boasts a water column resistance of 10,000 mm and exceptional durability. The side zipper allows easy access to the main compartment. The single roll-top design allows for compression. It also features ski attachment and a hydration system. The lightweight 4-S system with quick-release buckles and an advanced chest strap provides excellent adjustability and control.
Capacity: 44 liters
Size (H x W x D): 69 x 29 x 27 cm
Weight: 980 g
Color: Raven
￥52,800
◆Official website is here
"The sophisticated and cool design and color make it stand out!" Shohei Sasaki
This is a lightweight, spacious alpine backpack. It weighs less than 1kg, but even carrying over 10kg of gear
doesn't cause shoulder pain, which is extremely helpful. It also has ample storage space for avalanche gear, and the
main compartment can be
Reviewer
CIRCLE GAME guide service
Shohei Sasaki
[Main guide area] All of Hokkaido
[Qualifications]
JMGA Mountain Guide Stage II
, JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
MILLET | Professional writer 30+10
It uses MILLET's unique fabric, which combines lightweight and durable nylon material with a high level of balance, making it both lightweight and durable. It features a breathable, comfortable, and lightweight back system, as well as a removable high-waist belt that won't interfere with climbing harnesses, and a minimalist design that eliminates unnecessary elements, while still providing the functionality and comfort to withstand harsh environments
Capacity: 30+10 liters
Weight: 1000g
Size (H x W x D): 53 / 30 / 18.5cm
Color: SAPHIR (1 color)
¥22,000
◆Official website is here
"Despite its minimalist design, it has all the functionality you need for mountain skiing" - Hiroki Ito
This is an alpine backpack with absolutely no extraneous features. Simple and good
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)
Mystery Ranch｜GallantinPeak40
With its excellent storage capacity and quick access, this bag is packed with features that will delight mountain experts like guides and patrolmen. The main compartment can be accessed from either the top or back. Made from high-strength, wax-coated 320D Phantom ripstop fabric, the main frame is equally durable.
Its large front pocket provides ample storage for avalanche gear, while the bottom stowable helmet carrier, two pockets on the top lid, and a buckle that's easy to operate even with gloves on make it incredibly user-friendly.
Capacity: 42 liters
Weight: 1700g
Size (H x W x D): 69cm/29cm/29cm
Color: Black (1 color)
¥33,000
◆Official website is here
"Even when carrying a certain amount of weight, it fits comfortably on your back and doesn't pull your center of gravity backwards." Akiko Nakae
It seems there are no backpack manufacturers that can fit my 153cm frame, so I had almost given up on finding a perfect fit. For backcountry skiing, it's crucial that the backpack fits all the gear I need, has easy access to my avalanche gear, and fits snugly to my back even when carrying a certain amount of weight, without pulling my center of gravity backward
. This backpack, a product of Dana design, adheres perfectly to my back with its fitting system. If I were carrying less gear, it would be lighter and not a big issue, but a full guide's gear can weigh over 10kg, so I wanted to make sure it wouldn't affect my skiing.
The size is generous enough to fit a helmet and a bulky insulated jacket, and it also fits my helmet securely when camping in snow caves during the coldest winters. Also, even when skiing diagonally, the weight on my shoulders is even, so I don't get any stiff shoulders. Of course, the A-frame provides excellent stability. My only concern is that it's a little heavy.
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, Mountaineering Guide Stage II
, JAN Avalanche Worker Level I
OSPREY | Soulden 32
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
Capacity: 32 liters
Weight: 1,150g
Size (H x W x D): 54/ 31/28cm
Color: Dust Moss Green/Black
¥26,400
◆Official website is here
"The design is perfect and the capacity is just right." - Chikara Nakajima
The design hits all the right spots, with essential rear access, a goggle pocket to prevent scratches, a zippered pocket and gear loops on the hip belt, dual-position helmet carry, and just the right amount of capacity
Reviewer
RIKI JAPOW GUIDE
Riki Nakajima
[Main guide areas] Around Tomamu, around Furano, around Asahikawa / Other: Niseko, Rusutsu, Nozawa Onsen
[Qualifications]
JMGA Mountaineering Guide Stage II
, JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
, JAN Avalanche Worker Level 1
Patagonia Descensionist Pack 32L
This minimalist design maximizes mobility on the mountain. With two main compartments and an adjustable roll-top opening, it offers the storage capacity of a full-size pack, yet feels like a small pack. It also features a dedicated compartment for quick access to avalanche gear, a breathable harness for long approaches, a lightweight yet durable 420-denier recycled nylon shell, and ski carriers compatible with both diagonal and A-frame configurations, making it a highly functional touring bag
Capacity: 32ℓ
Weight: 1166g
Size (Height x Width x Depth):
55/32/20cm (S/M)
59/32/20cm (L/XL)
Color: Crater bule (Black/2 colors in total)
¥24,200
◆Official website is here
"It's slim and doesn't restrict arm movement, and it's easy to attach skis to the side." - Kazuya Furuse
I like the sturdy construction. The roll-top design makes it easy to carry extra luggage when you're staying overnight in a hut. I also like the fact that the overall pack is slim, making it easy to attach skis to the sides and doesn't restrict arm movement
Reviewer
LOCUS GUIDE SERVICE
Kazuya Furuse
[Main guide area] Hakuba area
[Qualifications]
JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
, JAN Avalanche Worker Level 2
PLUS ONE WORKS｜NEW SHUMARI 35
The back system has been completely redesigned from the ground up. The back panel uses three independent pads. It provides excellent stability by supporting the spine and sides. It features a convenient roll-top gear rack, rear access, and a pocket that can hold two goggles. The shoulder straps and frame are designed to fit the Japanese body type, reducing the weight of the load and reducing interference with movement while skiing, while the waist harness fits snugly around the pelvis to prevent the load from swaying sideways
Capacity: 35ℓ
Weight: 1,890g
Size (back length): 50cm
Color: BLUE GRAY (OLIVE, NAVY/all 3 colors)
¥28,600
◆Official website is here
"Everything about the NEW SHUMARI 35 is great!" by Satoshi Tsukahara
I was actually involved in the development of this backpack, so it's full of ideas and thoughts about what I wanted it to be like. Everything about the "NEW SHUMARI 35" is great. It has features specifically tailored for snowboarders
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
PLUS ONE WORKS｜SHUMARI 35
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
Capacity: 35ℓ
Weight: 1700g
Size (back length): 50cm
Color: Glass Hoper (4 colors: Navy, Silver, Coke Red)
¥25,300
◆Official website is here
"The rigidity reduces strain on the body, allowing you to spend the day in comfort." Tomohiro Shagawa
The backpack's rigidity reduces the strain on the body caused by carrying it for long periods of time, improving skiing. The backpack's stability and lack of fatigue enhance its quality. Its simple design separates the compartments for gear that gets snowy, including climbing skins, like shovels and probes, from those for items you don't want snow to get into.
Dedicated pockets for backcountry gear, and a roll-up access opening make it convenient for storing everything from helmets to crampons, as well as extra gear. The rear access and long back length make for a well-designed backpack. The backpack's slim design also makes it a perfect match for skiers, as it shifts their center of gravity closer to the body.
Even when they need to change from climbing skins to crampons, the backpack securely holds and supports their skis, so the added weight of carrying them is barely noticeable. I also use the SHUMARI 50 (50L).
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
