"This season is my backcountry debut!" "It's about time I bought a new backpack." "I rented one on my first guided tour last season, so this year I want my own." For skiers and snowboarders like you, we'd like to introduce some excellent backpacks that professional BC guides confidently recommend to their guests, calling them "the backpack of choice for a one-day tour."
*For detailed information about a guide club, click on the guide club name and go to the guide club introduction page on STEEP!
ARC'TERYX｜RUSH SK 32 BACKPACK
The roll-top design allows for expansion from 32 to a maximum of 40 liters. This backpack utilizes two types of high-performance materials in the right places to enhance durability while remaining lightweight. Its balance, weather resistance, and ease of organization are optimized for backcountry touring. Skis can be attached in an A-frame position on the side or diagonally on the front. For high-season backcountry touring, the Rush SK 32, which expands to 40 liters, offers ample capacity
Capacity: 32L
Size (Height x Width x Depth): 63 x 28 x 42cm
Weight: 920g
Color: Black (Fluidity - 2 colors available)
¥38,500
"It's stable both when moving and when gliding." | Daichi TERUI
It's light, has a good pack shape, and has little effect on the center of gravity, making it easy to ski. It's functional and easy to use, making it easy to move around. The stability it provides both when skiing and when moving around gives a sense of security to BC beginners with little experience on natural snowy mountains
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
I also love the "ARC'TERYX | RUSH SK 32 BACKPACK"!
"Lightweight, highly waterproof, and durable!" |, JUNRINA mountain service Jun Nagai
There are many reasons why I would recommend this backpack to beginners. First, it's a backcountry backpack, designed for balanced and comfortable carrying. It's also easy to use, with a simple design, a wide side zipper, and easy access to the contents. It's also lightweight, weather-resistant, durable, and waterproof, and is sturdy! You can choose between short and regular back lengths to suit your body size, and the removable helmet fastening system is convenient. I use it myself, and there are many things I like about it when using it in the mountains
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
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
"Just because you're a beginner doesn't mean you don't need a float bag." | Kazuya Igarashi, Kagura Powder Station
It's lightweight, well-balanced, and has all the features needed for backcountry skiing. The float system is secure and highly reliable. It's
absolutely not true that beginners don't need a float pack; it's best to understand its necessity from the beginning for safety management. The instructions are easy for anyone to understand. Carrying a float pack doesn't mean you'll never die, whether you're a beginner or experienced. Using a float pack contributes to understanding safety in the mountains and raising awareness of safety in backcountry and powder skiing as a whole.
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 I
, JMGA Mountaineering Guide Stage II
BLACK DIAMOND ｜ Dawn Patrol 32
This 32-liter bag is packed with features and perfect for day trips. Its front pocket can hold an avalanche tool, a hydration system, a soft flask, a small radio, and more. The back panel fully opens with a zipper, allowing for easy access to your belongings. It's made from 100% recycled fabric
Capacity: S/M = 30L, M/L = 32L
Size (Height x Width x Depth): S/M (Back Length = 41-48cm), M/L (Back Length = 47-55cm)
Weight: 1200g
Color: Storm Blue (Black - 2 colors total)
¥31,130
"A design specialized for backcountry is good" | KinTouN Backcountry Guide Kenichi Minegishi
The capacity is just right. It's designed specifically for backcountry use. The waist belt pocket is large and very convenient
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 LITE 26
This technical pack prioritizes functionality and portability for winter. It's especially great for one-day backcountry tours. It can accommodate skis and snowboards, as well as two external ice axes. It also has dedicated pockets for avalanche gear and goggles
Capacity: 26L
Size (Height x Width x Depth): 64 / 30 / 22 cm
Weight: 1180g
Color: Marine x Ink
¥27,500
"It's easy to walk and the capacity is just right." | Kuroda Mountain Guide Office, Makoto Kuroda
This backpack is unusual among recent small backpacks in that it has an A-frame, allowing you to carry skis on your back. This has the advantage of making it stable and easy to walk in difficult situations where you have to carry skis on your back. For this reason, it is recommended for people who don't usually hike in the mountains, who are concerned about their physical condition, or who are small and worried about being blown around by the wind. The capacity is just right, so pack as much as will fit inside
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
"Lightweight and compact" |Rhythm Works Asahi Ritta
This is a model I personally use for tours where the hikes are short and the riding is the main focus. Its simple design and hip belt, which resembles a goggle strap, make it easy to move around in, and it can store not only avalanche gear but also emergency preparedness equipment. I like how compact it is
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 ｜TARGHEE FT35
The separate top section allows you to easily access the contents of the main pack, you can attach skis without taking the pack off, the zippers are easy to use even when wearing gloves, and the hip belt webbing is completely removable.Each part is lightweight and removable, so you can choose the parts you need and reduce excess weight, which is ideal for one-day tours
Capacity: 35L (S/M) / 38L (M/D)
Weight: 1300g (S/M) / 1430g (M/D)
Size (Height x Width x Depth):
71.1 x 28 x 25.4cm (S/M) / 76.2 x 28 x 25.4cm (M/D)
Color: Spark Navy (Ozone Black - 2 colors total)
¥38,500
"Around 35L is a good size for versatility, including day trips." | Infield Toyokazu Nakano
The TARGHEE FT35 has the same basic performance as the Targhee, and is an easy-to-use pack for backcountry use, with excellent storage for a shovel and probe. Generally, a 35L pack is a good size for everything from day trips to overnight stays in mountain huts, making it versatile. While it doesn't have rear access, it's easy to use for those who prefer top-loading packs. Not only is it comfortable and fits well, but its slim design means it won't be shaken around by your luggage 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
Klättermusen｜Ull Backpack 30L
This lightweight ski touring backpack is designed for half-day or full-day missions. Its original 210-denier ripstop fabric boasts a water resistance of 10,000mm. The simple drawcord closure system allows for easy top-loading with one hand. The roll-top closure also allows for compression. The exterior loop webbing allows for the attachment of poles, ice axes, and other gear
Capacity: 30L
Size (Height x Width x Depth): 58 x 29 x 16cm
Weight: 843g
Color: Snow Burnt Russet (6 colors available)
¥52,800
"It's lightweight and comfortable to wear, so I recommend it." | CIRCLE GAME guide service Shohei Sasaki
This is a smaller-capacity model of the Trud 44L. It has no rain cover and a roll-top design, so it can be compressed to fit the amount of luggage you have. It's lightweight and comfortable to carry, making it a recommended choice
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｜Nirvana 30
It offers a variety of features, including full rear access, a jacket carrying system, a front pocket for safety gear, hydration system compatibility, a removable padded hip belt, and an integrated helmet carrier. It also offers an excellent fit and is made with recycled materials. It features two-way ski attachment: A-frame and diagonal
Capacity: 30L
Weight: 1,350g
Size (Height x Width x Depth): 52.5 / 28 / 15.5cm
Color: Sapphire-Black (Available in 3 colors: Black, Hot Red-Black)
¥30,800
Width: 28.0cm, Height: 52.5cm, Depth: 15.5cm
"Backcountry specific gear is definitely more convenient" | POWERZONE Hakuba Mamoru Takahashi
If you're going to use it in the backcountry, a backpack designed for backcountry use is definitely the most convenient. This size (30L) is also the most 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 trips to the backcountry. Its vertical shape allows for the attachment of double ice axes. It's stress-free when moving around in alpine areas.
The flap allows for storage of about 40 liters of gear. The rear zipper allows for easy access to gear even when the backpack is in an A-frame configuration, making it very user-friendly.
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
It's made specifically for backcountry use, and is minimalist and free of unnecessary items. The 30L capacity allows you to eliminate unnecessary equipment and makes packing simple and lightweight
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): 54/31/28cm
Color: Black (Artisan Yellow - 2 colors available)
¥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
"Models with open backs are especially recommended for beginners" | BLUECLIFF Tomoo Takimoto
Backpacks with opening backs are easy for beginners to use. The Soleden 32 is lightweight yet packed with features such as storage space for avalanche gear and a helmet holder
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
Patagonia Snowdrifter Pack 30L
This versatile pack is designed for all-day backcountry use, features a dedicated avalanche gear compartment, and is easily accessible through the back panel while gear is still loaded. It's made from 100% recycled materials
Capacity: 30L
Weight: 1,191g
Size (Height x Width x Depth): 54 x 30 x 17cm (S/M), 59 x 30 x 17cm (L/XL)
Color: Shrub Green (Black - 2 colors total)
¥23,100
"The rear access is convenient and simple to use." - Kazuya Furuse
The recommended points are that the rear access is easy to use and it is simple and easy to use
Reviewer:
LOCUS GUIDE SERVICE
, Kazuya Furuse
[Profile]
In pursuit of the art of skiing, my focus shifted from ski resorts to the backcountry, where I've gained experience both as a skier and as a guide.
[Main Guide Area] Hakuba Area
[Qualifications Held]
・JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
・JAN Avalanche Operations Personnel Level 2
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: Navy, Glass HoperSilver, Coke Red (all 4 colors)
¥25,300
"Even beginners can enjoy a comfortable day at BC" | COLOR SPORT CLUB Tomohiro Shagawa
The SHUMARI 35's rigid construction prevents the backpack from swaying, reducing strain on the body during long periods of wear and preventing fatigue. This stability is especially appreciated by beginners unfamiliar with mountain activities. Its simple design makes it easy to use, and the separate compartments for snow-covered gear (including shovels and probes) and items that shouldn't get snow are a nice touch.
Dedicated pockets for backcountry essentials and a roll-top access opening are convenient for storing helmets and other items. The rear access and back length are also well-designed, making it ideal for beginners. The backpack's slim profile also contributes to its smoother handling, as the center of gravity is closer to the body when skiing.
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
SALOMON｜MTN15・MTN30
MTN15
Developed based on Salomon's expertise in trail running backpacks, this backpack features a form-fitting design that adapts to the intense movements of snowy mountains, a compact size that doesn't interfere with skiing, and lightweight comfort. The 15-liter capacity is sufficient for half-day to full-day backcountry skiing. The full-zip rear panel allows easy access to your gear, and the highly waterproof fabric makes it ideal for use in bad weather
Capacity: 15ℓ
Weight: 701g
Size (back length): 50cm
Color: Black/White (Fiery Red/Fiery Red 2 colors)
¥18,700
MTN30
Developed based on Salomon's trail running packs, it offers excellent mobility, stability, and comfort. It features a full zip for easy access from the back, highly waterproof fabric, and a built-in hydration system
Capacity: 30L
Weight: 911g
Size (Height x Width x Depth): 56 x 26 x 22cm
Color: Fiery Red/Fiery Red (Black/White - 2 colors total)
¥22,000
"15 liters for lift-access powder and side country, and 30 liters for backcountry." | Coyote Ryuta Furuichi
I use Salomon's "MTN30" for backcountry skiing, and its smaller version, the "MTN15," for lift-access powder and sidecountry. Here's why I recommend these two:
• They're lightweight overall.
• The shoulder straps have pockets, perfect for a radio.
• The waist belt also has pockets and gear racks, convenient for storing small items like sunscreen. •
The gear racks allow you to attach carabiners, slings, small knives, and other gear you need quick access to. •
The rear entry system allows you to access water bottles, snacks, and warm clothing without getting them wet. • And they
're reasonably priced!
Reviewer:
Mountain Guide Coyote
Ryuta Furuichi
[Main guiding area] Hokkaido (Niseko, Mt. Yotei, Kiroro, Daisetsuzan, Furano area)
[Profile]
Interested in the environment and food, after graduating from the Faculty of Agriculture at Meiji University, he joined a company in Hokkaido in order to live in the magnificent Hokkaido. To feel closer to nature and practice a lifestyle that does not have an impact on the environment, he established Mountain Guide Coyote. He loves skiing in the snowy mountains using telemark skiing.
[Qualifications held]
JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
, JAN Avalanche Operator Level 2
The North Face ｜CHUGACH28
This model has ample capacity for everything from side country to light one-day trips, and features panel loading for minimal movement while riding. The main fabric is made of lightweight, durable material. The front panel is equipped with an avalanche pocket. The main compartment can be accessed from the back panel, which opens wide. Other features include a snowboard and ski carrier, a helmet holder, and other parts that are easy to operate even when wearing gloves
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
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