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 42 BACKPACK
This roll-top backpack can be expanded to a maximum of 50 liters. It features two high-performance materials, optimally positioned for durability and lightweight construction. Its balance, weather resistance, and organization are optimized for backcountry tours. Skis can be attached to the sides in an A-frame position or in a diagonal position on the front. While it comes with a 32-liter capacity, the Rush SK 42, with its guide-specification design, can be expanded to 50 liters if you need to add ropes or crampons or stay overnight in a mountain hut
Capacity: 42 liters
Size (H x W x D): 63 x 28 x 42 cm
Weight: 920 g
Color: Black (Fluidity 2 colors available)
¥38,500
◆Official website is here
"It has excellent storage capacity and is easy to use" | IDEHA Ishizawa Takahiro
As a backpack for backcountry camping, it has the best storage capacity and ease of use. The space for storing a shovel, probe, and snow saw, separate from the main compartment, is particularly convenient and allows for quick access in an emergency. The pool top on top also makes it easy to access items, and the upper pockets are spacious. The size of the backpack itself is just right for a one-day tour as a guide
Reviewer
IDEHA
Takahiro Ishizawa
[Profile]
Born and raised in a corner of Zao, I grew up enjoying skiing in the fields and mountains from an early age. I have been guiding at Gassan for 27 years, and I never get tired of the joy of skiing in this area. I guide with the hope of sharing this excitement with everyone.
I also work as a drone pilot for Cocoheli, helping to search for lost people in mountain areas and promoting safe mountain climbing.
[Qualifications]
JMGA Mountain Guide Stage I
, JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
, Certified Instructor of the Japan Telemark Ski Association
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 in the right places, making it durable yet lightweight. Its balance, weather resistance, and organization are optimized for backcountry touring. Skis can be attached to the A-frame. For high-season backcountry touring, the Rush SK 32, which expands to 40 liters, provides ample capacity
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
"It's light, has a good shape, and has little effect on the center of gravity." | Daichi TERUI
I like it because it's light, the pack has a good shape, and doesn't affect the center of gravity
Reviewer
Daichi Terui
[Main guide area] All of Hokkaido
[Profile]
Aspiring to become a mountain guide while attending university, he studied under international mountain guide Hirofumi Ishizaka. Upon graduating from university, he became a certified guide of the Japan Mountain Guides Association and began guiding. As part of his own activities, he has experienced heli-ski guide training in Northern Europe, mountaineering in the European Alps, and ski touring since his early twenties.
[Qualifications]
JMGA Mountain Guide Stage I
, JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
, and JAN Avalanche Worker Level I.
"It has a flexible capacity, is durable, lightweight, and highly waterproof." | Jun Nagai JUNRINA mountain service
It has a flexible capacity, is durable yet lightweight and highly waterproof. You can customize how you use it with the silicone bands you have. There are a number of things I like about it when using it in the mountains. Specifically...
1. It looks cool!
2. It's a backcountry bag, designed for balanced and comfortable carrying.
3. It's simple to make, lightweight, weatherproof, 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.
Reviewer
JUNRINA mountain service
Jun Nagai
[Main guide areas] Kagura BC, Echigo Yuzawa BC, Tateyama BC
[Profile]
After quitting his job and working at Tateyama Raichoso while undergoing guide training, he started working as JUNRINA mountain service in 2010. He has many experiences on overseas backcountry trips. In summer and autumn, he works as a mountain guide mainly in the Alps and Joshinetsu, and in winter and spring as a backcountry ski guide.
[Qualifications]
JMGA Mountain Guide Stage III
, JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
, JAN Avalanche Worker Level 1
ARVA｜SWITCH TOUR Bundle (25+40) AIRBAG
This backpack, released by ARVA, the company behind the beacon, is equipped with an avalanche airbag, but its switch system allows it to be used as a standalone backpack, with adjustable capacity, making it extremely revolutionary. Avalanche gear can be stored in the front pocket, and skis can be attached in either A-frame or diagonal positions. It offers all the functionality of a regular backpack, but with the addition of an airbag, it's a multi-purpose backpack
◆Official website is here
"The airbag system is detachable! The capacity can be adjusted, making it incredibly versatile." | BLUECLIFF's Tomoo Takimoto
The ARVA SWITCH TOUR Bundle (25+40) AIRBAG is the lightest backpack with an airbag system. The air system provides peace of mind that the backpack will always open. The volume can be easily changed, making it suitable for everything from day tours to bivouac tours. The airbag system can also be removed, allowing you to replace just the backpack in the future
Reviewer:
Michio Takimoto, BLUECLIFF
[Main guide area] Hakuba Otari, Northern Alps, Hokkaido
[Profile]
At the age of 19, he became interested in climbing, starting with the Mont Blanc Major Route and the North Face of the Drus. Since then, he has been active throughout the country, focusing on free climbing and backcountry snowboarding. In 2000, he moved to Hakuba Village and began working as a mountain guide.
[Qualifications]
UIAGIM
, IFMGA International Mountain Guide
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 (Black, Tan, 3 colors in total)
¥198,000
◆Official website is here
"The float system is extremely reliable" | Kazuya Igarashi, Kagura Powder Station
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 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 Miura in 2008. He currently supports Kagura Powder Station as a BC ski and mountaineering guide.
[Qualifications]
JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
BLACK DIAMOND ｜Circle 45
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
Capacity: 35 liters
Size (height x width x depth): S/M (back length = 41-48 cm), M/L (back length = 47-55 cm)
Weight: S/M = 1,020 g, M/L = 1,075 g
Color: Black (Ultra Blue, 2 colors available)
¥31,130
◆Official website is here
"Simple and easy to use" | KinTouN Backcountry Guide Kenichi Minegishi
It's simple in design, has a clean appearance, and is easy to use. It's also very lightweight. It makes it easy to pack each piece of gear separately. The side zipper also makes it easy to take things in and out, even while wearing skis. Its
most distinctive feature is the shape of the opening. When you pull the cord, the flap integrated with the main body closes like a rain cover. To open it, simply pull the looped tape, and it opens completely, making it very quick to access the contents of the backpack. It's especially convenient when it's snowing. You can take things in and out quickly and smoothly, keeping the contents of the backpack as dry as possible.
Reviewer
KinTouN Backcountry Guide (Kintoun)
Minegishi Kenichi
[Main guide area] Kanetsu area
[Profile]
Backcountry guide since 2003. Organizes a members-only club, "Valley of the Wind," an old-style campsite in Yamakita Town in the western part of Kanagawa Prefecture. Together with members he has connected through backcountry skiing, he has built campsites and play areas in the mountains using DIY methods.
"Just like skiing on the waves, which are the energy of nature, I want to ski on natural snow-capped mountains, climb the mountain on my own two feet, and ski as I please. It is precisely because there is risk that I feel a sense of freedom."
[Qualifications]
JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
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 total)
¥36,300
◆Official website is here
"It's easy to pack and comfortable to carry." | Kuroda Mountain Guide Office, Makoto Kuroda
It can be used in many situations, including overnight stays in huts. It's easy to carry and comfortable, so you won't feel tired even after a full day of activities. It's also great that it's easy to pack and there aren't many other people 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, 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
GREGORY | Belte24
The Freeride hip belt moves with your body, allowing for freedom of movement while providing just the right amount of support and tension. It's also incredibly convenient, with features like a hydration sleeve, a back panel with snow removal, side gusseted zippers, a durable, padded front pocket for avalanche gear, and zipper pulls and buckles that are easy to open and close even with gloves on
Capacity: 24 liters
Weight: 1150g
Size (H x W x D): 48.5 x 27 x 20.5 cm
Color: Carbon bronze
¥36,300
◆Official website is here
"I use it for tours where the hike is short and the riding is the main focus" | Rhythm Works' Ryuta Asahi
I use it on tours where the hikes are short and the riding is the main focus. I like how it's easy to move around in thanks to the hip belt, which is similar to a goggle strap, and the simple design, and how it can store not only avalanche gear but also emergency preparedness equipment, making it compact
Reviewer:
Rhythm Works (Rhythm Works)
Ryuta Asahi
[Main guide areas] Shirakawa-go, Tateyama, Hakuba, Hirayu, Hoki-Daisen *Mainly the Hida Mountains and Ryohaku Mountains
[Profile]
Climbing mountains throughout the four seasons in tune with the rhythm of nature. A multi-talented mountain guide who conveys the charm of a wide range of mountains, from general traverses to variation routes, from river climbing to backcountry riding.
[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: Alaska Blue
¥37,400
◆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 / 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
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! | CIRCLE GAME guide service 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] Hokkaido
[Profile]
Born in Nanae Town, 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
MAMUUT｜Trion Nordwand 38
This backpack is designed by and for top athletes. Versatile, durable, lightweight, and incredibly comfortable, it's packed with functional details like an elastic chest strap, a height-adjustable flap with internal and external pockets, a roll-top closure, hydration system compatibility, and removable compression straps with side and front pulls
Capacity: 38 liters
Weight: 960g
Size (H x W x D): 63 / 27.5 / 18.8cm
Color: arumita-night (black, 2 colors available)
¥29,150
◆Official website is here
"Backcountry specific gear is definitely more convenient" | POWERZONE Hakuba Mamoru Takahashi
If you're going to use it in the backcountry, a backcountry backpack is definitely more convenient
Reviewer
POWERZONE
Hakuba Mamoru Takahashi
[Main guiding area] Hakuba, Otari
[Profile]
As a backcountry guide and ski coach, he travels all over Japan as a mountain guide in the summer, supporting the power zone. He fell in love with the scenery of Hakuba in Shinshu and settled in Hakuba, where he devotes his days off to training to improve his skills.
[Qualifications]
JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
, JMGA Mountaineering Guide Stage II
, SAJ Ski Instructor
MAMUUT | Trion 35
This is a long-established model from MAMMUT in the alpine backpack category. It is renowned for its high-quality materials and excellent finish. It features ultra-lightweight and highly breathable EVA padding, a large zipper on the back for access to the main compartment, a large zippered front pocket for storing avalanche gear, and a large top opening for superior usability. The ski attachments on the sides are reinforced for durability
Capacity: 35 liters
Weight: 1480g
Size (H x W x D): 60 / 29 / 11cm
Color: Marine Black (Hot Red - Marine 2 colors available)
¥33,000
◆Official website is here
"Highly recommended for a day trip to BC!" | Niseko Mecca's Hisataka Tanaka
This backpack is especially recommended for day BC hikes. Its vertical form allows for double axe attachment. It's stress-free when exploring alpine areas. The flap allows for approximately 40 liters of luggage to be stored. The back zipper allows for easy access even when the backpack is in A-frame mode
Reviewer
Niseko
MeccaHisataka Tanaka
[Main guiding area] All of Hokkaido (Asahikawa, Furano, Kiroro, Rusutsu, Mt. Yotei, Niseko)
[Profile]
In addition to the mountains of Hokkaido, he has also experienced climbing in Squamish, BC, Canada, climbing and hiking in the Canadian Rockies, backcountry skiing, tramping, climbing and backcountry skiing on New Zealand's South Island. He has been working as a guide in Niseko since 2002.
[Qualifications]
JMGA Mountain Guide Stage II
, JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
, NZMSC Avalanche ST1
MILLET ｜d tour 30
This medium-capacity snow pack for ski touring focuses on safety performance. A detachable
safety gear pocket offers great convenience. The main compartment can be accessed from the side. Other functional pockets and attachments allow you to quickly access and store your essential gear, reducing clutter while on the move. It's packed with features to make climbing and riding more comfortable, including ski holders that are compatible with both A-frame and diagonal skis, an ice axe holder on the front that's easy to access, and a helmet holder.
Capacity: 30+10 liters
Weight: 1038g
Size (H x W x D): 52 / 27 / 18cm
Color: RED/SAPHIR (BLACK 2 colors available)
¥37,400
◆Official website is here
"The simple functionality made for BC is great" | Vertical Land, Hiroki Ito
I like the simple functionality of this bag, which was designed for backcountry use. The side zipper opening is well-used, and even though it only has one compartment, it's very easy to access items inside, such as a water bottle or snacks, which you often need to take out during breaks
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)
OSPREY | Soulden 32
It offers ample capacity and an excellent fit. This popular model has garnered high praise, especially from users who prioritize skiing. Its excellent balance and weight distribution make it lightweight even when worn. It features a two-chamber design with rear access and a rain cover. The waistbelt also has a small storage compartment, convenient for storing snacks and small items. The 2023/24 model is made with bluesign®-certified 100% recycled fabric and a PFAS-free DWR finish
Capacity: 32 liters
Weight: 1,150g
Size (H x W x D): 54/ 31/28cm
Color: Artisan Yellow (Black, 2 colors available)
¥27,500
◆Official website is here
"The design is perfect and the capacity is just right." | RIKI JAPOW GUIDE Riki 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 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
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." | COLOR SPORT CLUB Tomohiro Shagawa
The backpack's rigidity reduces the strain on the body caused by carrying it for long periods of time, improving skiing. Its lack of sway and resulting stability, which prevents fatigue, enhance the backpack's quality. Its simple design also allows for convenient separation between separate compartments for gear that gets snowy, including climbing skins, like shovels and probes, and items you don't want to get snow in.
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 you're forced to change from climbing skins to crampons, the backpack securely holds and supports your skis, so you barely notice the added weight. I also use the SHUMARI 50 (50L).
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
The North Face ｜CHUGACH45
Despite its 45-liter capacity, it weighs just 2kg. The interior can be accessed from both the top and back panels. The main fabric is made of a lightweight, durable material, while the front panel and hip harness are made of abrasion-resistant material, achieving an excellent balance of lightness and strength. It's multifunctional and extremely user-friendly, and its greatest appeal is its thinness, which allows for smooth sliding
Capacity: 45 liters
Weight: M: approx. 1,950g, L: approx. 2,010g
Size (back length): M: H64.5 (79.5) x W29.5 x D16cm, L: H68 (83) x W30 x D16cm
Color: TNF White (Black, Cave Blue, 3 colors available)
¥41,800
◆Official website is here
"It's comfortable to wear and easy to access gear." | Natures, Shinya Nakagawa
Comfortable to wear, easy access to avalanche gear, and back access makes it easy to take out your belongings even with skis or snowboards attached
Reviewer
Nature
Shinya Nakagawa
[Main guiding area] Northern Hokkaido area near Asahikawa
[Profile]
Started snowboarding at age 14, and obtained professional certification from the JSBA (Japan Snowboard Association) in 2000. Fascinated by the world of backcountry, he shifted the focus of his activities to filming and photography. Feeling the joy and charm of mountains and nature, he wanted to provide safe and enjoyable mountain trips, so he decided to become a guide. After working as a Mount Asahidake Nature Conservation Warden, he launched "Natures" in 2011.
[Qualifications]
JMGA Mountaineering Guide Stage II
, JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
