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: 42L
Size (Height x Width x Depth): 63 x 28 x 42cm
Weight: 920g
Color: Black (Fluidity - 2 colors available)
¥38,500
"Excellent storage capacity and easy to use" | Takahiro Ishizawa
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 mountains and fields from a young age. I have been guiding on Mt. Gassan for 27 years, and I never tire of the joy of skiing in this area. I guide because I want to share this excitement with everyone.
I also participate in search and rescue operations for missing persons in mountainous areas as a drone pilot for CocoHeli, and I am also involved in activities to promote safe mountaineering.
[Qualifications]
JMGA Mountain Guide Stage I
, JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
, Japan Telemark Ski Association Certified Instructor
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: 32L
Size (Height x Width x Depth): 63 x 28 x 32cm
Weight: 920g
Color: Black (Fluidity - 2 colors available)
¥36,300
"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 guiding area] All of Hokkaido
[Profile]
While attending university, he aspired to become a mountain guide and studied under international mountain guide Hirofumi Ishizaka. Upon graduating from university, he became a certified guide of the Japan Mountain Guide Association and began guiding. As part of his own activities, from his early twenties, he has experience in heli-skiing guide training in Northern Europe, mountaineering in the European Alps, and ski touring.
[Qualifications held]
・JMGA Mountain Guide Stage I
・JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
・JAN Avalanche Operator Level I completed
"Flexible capacity, durable yet lightweight and highly waterproof" |, JUNRINA mountain service Jun Nagai
It offers flexible capacity, is durable yet lightweight, and highly waterproof. You can customize its use with your own silicone bands. There are many things I like about it when using it in the mountains. Specifically…
1. It looks cool!
2. It's a backcountry backpack, designed for balanced and comfortable carrying.
3. It's simply constructed, lightweight, weather-resistant, durable, and highly waterproof.
4. The removable helmet attachment system is convenient.
5. The roll-top design allows you to create several liters of extra capacity by adjusting the number of rolls.
6. The wide side zipper makes it easy to access contents.
7. You can customize gear attachments with silicone bands, etc.
8. You can choose between short and regular back lengths to suit different body sizes.
Reviewer:
JUNRINA mountain service
Jun Nagai,
[Main Guide Areas] Kagura BC, Echigo Yuzawa BC, Tateyama BC
[Profile]
After leaving her corporate job, she worked at Tateyama Raichoso while undergoing guide training, and started working as JUNRINA mountain service in 2010. She has extensive experience on overseas backcountry trips. In summer and autumn, she works as a mountain guide mainly in the Alps and Joshinetsu region, and in winter and spring, she works as a backcountry ski guide.
[Qualifications Held]
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
"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:
BLUECLIFF
Michio Takimoto,
[Main guide area] Hakuba Otari, Northern Alps, Hokkaido
[Profile]
At the age of 19, he became devoted to climbing, including the Mont Blanc Major Route and the North Face of the Drus. After that, he was active throughout Japan, mainly in free climbing and backcountry snowboarding. In 2000, he moved to Hakuba Village and began working as a mountain guide.
[Qualifications Held]
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
"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:
Powder Station
Kazuya Igarashi, Kagura
[Main Guide Area] Various routes accessible from the BC gate at the summit of the 5th Romance Lift at Kagura Ski Resort / Others: Spring tours of Tateyama, Gassan, Mt. Fuji, etc.
[Profile]
After becoming the All Japan Mogul Champion, he participated in the W-CAP and served as a national team coach, training skiers such as Satoya, Miura, Tsukida, and Hara. He worked under Yuichiro Miura and was active in Snow Dolphin. In 2008, he climbed Mt. Everest with him. Currently, he supports Kagura Powder Station as a BC ski and mountaineering guide.
[Qualifications Held]
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: 35L
Size (Height x Width x Depth): S/M (Back length = 41-48cm), M/L (Back length = 47-55cm)
Weight: S/M = 1,020g, M/L = 1,075g
Color: Black (Ultra Blue - 2 colors total)
¥31,130
"Simple and easy to use" | KinTouN Backcountry Guide Kenichi Minegishi
It has a simple design, a clean look, and is easy to use. It's also very lightweight. It's easy to pack each piece of gear separately. Thanks to the side zipper, it's easy to put things in and take them out even while wearing skis.
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 just pull the loop-shaped tape and it opens completely, so you can access the contents of the backpack very quickly. I especially find it convenient when it's snowing. Because you can put things in and take them out quickly and smoothly, you can work without getting the contents of the backpack as wet as possible.
Reviewer:
KinTouN Backcountry GuideKenichi
Minegishi
[Main Guide Area] Kanto-Etsu Area
[Profile]
guide since 2003. Runs a members-only club and renovated traditional Japanese house camp "Kaze no Tani" in Yamakita Town, western Kanagawa Prefecture. Together with members he connected with through backcountry skiing, he is DIYing campsites and playgrounds in the mountains.
"I wanted to ski on natural snow-covered mountains, just like riding the waves, which are the energy of nature. I wanted to climb the mountains on my own two feet and ski as I pleased. I felt freedom precisely because there was risk."
[Qualifications Held]
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 (Height x Width x Depth): 70 / 32 / 24 cm
Weight: 1500 g
Color: Ink x Marine (Teal x Corn - 2 colors total)
¥36,300
"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:
Mountain Guide Office
Makoto Kuroda, Kuroda
[Main Guiding Area] Primarily the Joshinetsu region, but also available in areas of your choice.
[Profile]
I offer small-group private guiding services, supporting unique mountain expeditions tailored to each individual's skill level. I value not only skiing but also the spirit of travel in my service.
[Qualifications]
International Mountain Guide
, JAN Avalanche Operations Specialist 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: 24L
Weight: 1150g
Size (Height x Width x Depth): 48.5 x 27 x 20.5cm
Color: Carbon Bronze
¥36,300
"We use it for tours with short hikes and a focus on riding." |Rhythm Works Ritta 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 (Ryuta
Asahi
[Main guide areas] Shirakawa-go, Tateyama, Hakuba, Hirayu, Hoki-Daisen *Mainly the Hida Mountains and Ryohaku Mountains
[Profile]
I climb mountains throughout the four seasons, in harmony with the rhythm of nature. I am a versatile mountain guide who conveys the wide range of mountain attractions, from general traverses to challenging routes, from canyoning 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 (Height x Width x Depth): 77.5/29.2/29.2cm (M) / 82.6/29.2/29.2cm (L)
Color: Alaska Blue
¥37,400
"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
Review
by
Toyokazu Nakano
[Main guiding area] Myoko/Kubiki area, Northern Shinshu / Others: Tateyama, Chokaisan, etc.
[Profile]
After 10 years of experience after moving to Myoko Kogen, I started "Infield" in 2006. Currently, I work as a backcountry tour guide and telemark ski instructor in winter, and as a mountain climbing/trekking guide and sea kayak guide in summer.
[Qualifications held]
JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
, JAN Avalanche Worker Level 2
Klattermusen ｜Trud Backpack 44L
Lightweight and robust, ideal for touring and backcountry use
適。オリジナルの 210 デニールリップストップ
fabric boasts a water resistance of 10,000 mm and exceptional durability. Side zippers provide easy access to the main compartment. One-roll-top design allows for compression. Features ski attachment and hydration system. Quick-release buckles and the latest chest strap feature the lightweight 4-S system for superior adjustability and control.
Capacity: 44L
Size (Height x Width x Depth): 69 x 29 x 27cm
Weight: 980g
Color: Raven
¥52,800
"The sophisticated and cool design and color make it stand out! | CIRCLE GAME guide service Shohei Sasaki
This is a lightweight, high-capacity alpine backpack. Weighing less than 1kg,
it's incredibly comfortable even with a load of over ten kilograms, preventing shoulder pain. It has a dedicated compartment for avalanche gear, and
the main compartment can be accessed in two ways: from the top (opens with a single action) and via a side zipper
きます。 なにより渋くてカッコいいデザインとカラーで、目立つこと間違いなしです！！
Reviewer:
CIRCLE GAME guide service
Shohei Sasaki,
[Main Guiding Area] Hokkaido
[Profile]
Originally from Nanae Town, Hokkaido, and based in Sapporo, he guides backcountry skiing in winter and explores Hokkaido's nature extensively in summer. He enjoys combining climbing and skiing.
[Qualifications Held]
JMGA Mountain 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: 38L
Weight: 960g
Size (Height x Width x Depth): 63 / 27.5 / 18.8cm
Color: arumita-night (black, 2 colors total)
¥29,150
"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 made it his home, spending his holidays immersed in skill-up training.
[Qualifications held]
JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
, JMGA Mountain 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: 35L
Weight: 1480g
Size (Height x Width x Depth): 60 / 29 / 11cm
Color: Marine Black (Hot Red-Marine - 2 colors total)
¥33,000
"Highly recommended for day trips to backcountry skiing!" | Niseko Mecca 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 Mecca
, Hisataka Tanaka
[Main guiding area] All of Hokkaido (Asahikawa, Furano, Kiroro, Rusutsu, Mt. Yotei, Niseko)
[Profile]
In addition to mountaineering in Hokkaido, he has experience 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. He has been working as a guide in Niseko since 2002.
[Qualifications held]
JMGA Mountain Guide Stage II
, JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
, NZMSC Avalanche ST1
MILLET ｜d tour 30
A medium-capacity snow pack designed for ski touring, with a focus on safety. The
detachable safety gear pocket offers high convenience. The main compartment is also accessible from the side. Numerous functional pockets and attachments allow for quick access and storage of necessary gear, reducing hassle during activity. Features include a ski holder compatible with both A-frame and diagonal setups, an easily accessible ice axe holder on the front, and a helmet holder, making it packed with features for comfortable climbing and riding.
Capacity: 30+10L
Weight: 1038g
Size (Height x Width x Depth): 52 / 27 / 18cm
Color: RED/SAPHIR (BLACK - 2 colors total)
¥37,400
"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:
Vertical Land)
Yuki Ito (
[Main guiding area] Around 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 skiing culture and at the same time became interested in mountain skiing. After completing the Yamnuska Mountaineering School, he returned to Japan and became independent and started his own business in January 2020. His guiding concept is "More mountains in your life."
[Qualifications held]
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: 32L
Weight: 1,150g
Size (Height x Width x Depth): 54cm / 31cm / 28cm
Color: Artisan Yellow (Black - 2 colors total)
¥27,500
"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] Tomamu area, Furano area, Asahikawa area / Others: Niseko, Rusutsu, Nozawa Onsen
[Profile]
Obtained CSIA instructor certification in Whistler, Canada, and the first Japanese person to obtain CFSA freeski instructor certification. Expanded his activities from participating in numerous freeski competitions to backcountry skiing. Currently based at Hoshino Resorts Tomamu Ski Resort, he provides guiding and lessons.
[Qualifications held]
JMGA Mountain 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
"The rigidity reduces strain on the body, allowing you to spend the day in comfort." | COLOR SPORT CLUB Tomohiro Shagawa
The rigidity of the backpack reduces the strain on the body from carrying it for long periods, which positively impacts skiing. The advantage of not swaying and the resulting stability that prevents fatigue enhances the backpack's overall quality. The simple design is also convenient, as it allows for separate compartments for snow-covered gear such as shovels and probes, including climbing skins, and for items that should not get snow on them.
Dedicated pockets for storing backcountry equipment and a roll-top access opening are useful for storing helmets, crampons, and extra gear. The back access and back length are also well-designed. The backpack's slim profile is also a good match for skiers, as it brings the center of gravity closer to the body during skiing.
Even when forced to switch from climbing skins to crampons, the backpack securely holds and supports the skis, making the added weight feel almost negligible. I also use the SHUMARI 50 (50L).
Reviewer:
COLOR SPORT CLUB
Tomohiro Tonegawa,
[Main Guide Area] Hakuba VALLEY (Hakuba, Otari, Omachi) / Others: Tateyama, Senjojiki, Myoko, Mt. Fuji
[Profile]
A pioneering figure who built the current backcountry scene. Since the early 1990s, he has looked beyond groomed slopes and pioneered the mountain skiing scene in the harsh winter. Even after achieving his signature field development throughout the Hakuba area, his pioneering work continues.
[Qualifications Held]
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: 45L
Weight: M: Approx. 1,950g, L: Approx. 2,010g
Size (Back Length): M: H64.5 (79.5) × W29.5 × D16cm, L: H68 (83) × W30 × D16cm
Color: TNF White (Black, Cave Blue - 3 colors total)
¥41,800
"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 Guide Area] Northern Hokkaido area near Asahikawa
[Profile]
Started snowboarding at the age of 14, and obtained a JSBA (Japan Snowboard Association) certified professional qualification in 2000. Fascinated by the world of backcountry, he shifted his focus to filming and photography. Feeling the joy and charm of mountains and nature, he decided to pursue a career as a guide to provide safe and enjoyable mountain trips. After serving as an Asahidake Nature Conservation Monitor, he established "Natures" in 2011.
[Qualifications Held]
・JMGA Mountain Guide Stage II
・JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
