Backcountry guides are able to provide guests with a safe and enjoyable time on the snowy mountains, even in the harshest natural conditions. It's easy to imagine how important it is for them to be able to move quickly and efficiently and to use their fingers accurately. It goes without saying that gloves play a vital role in ensuring that hands function properly even in the cold. Let's find out what kind of gloves professional guides trust and use, and hear their professional tips for using them on the mountains
*All prices include tax
"A style of wearing gloves over innerwear" | TEREMARK&MOUNTAIN GUIDE IDEHA Takahiro Ishizawa
ARC'TERYX | Sabre Gloves
Equipped with a GORE-TEX insert, it provides excellent breathability and waterproofing, making it ideal for harsh backcountry weather. The outer layer is made of abrasion-resistant, stretchable Fortius 1.0 softshell. The insulation is made of two types of soft Primaloft for smooth finger movement. The lightweight, low-profile cuff design makes layering easy
Color: Black (Yukon 2 colors)
Size: XS, S, M, L
¥33,000
ARC'TERYX | Low Gloves
Made from Torrent™ 190 material, these gloves offer excellent heat retention and breathability, keeping you warm and preventing stuffiness when worn under shell gloves. They are thin and feature a three-dimensional cut for a snug fit, allowing for easy finger movement. Their versatility makes them perfect for wearing on their own during spring seasons.
Color: Black (Tatsu, Box car - 3 colors total)
Size: XS, S, M, L
¥6,820
◆Official Website:https://arcteryx.jp/
[Favorite Model and Why]
I wear gloves with inner gloves. ARC'TERYX's "Saber Gloves" are the gloves that fit me best after using various manufacturers and types over the years. I've been using these gloves ever since; they're incredibly easy to use. The length to the wrist is just right for me, as I frequently take my gloves on and off. The ease of maintenance, the quality and durability of the leather—everything is perfect. The way the leather softens and develops a beautiful black sheen with use is also a plus.
Even during tours, I often have to take my gloves off for detailed tasks like checking my phone, but the rule is to wear inner gloves instead of going barehanded. The "Low Gloves" are thin but offer excellent warmth, allow me to operate my phone screen while wearing them, and pair very well with the Saber Gloves. I've been using this combination for about five seasons, and it's the best for me.
[Tips for Using Gloves]
I carry one spare inner glove and one spare pair of gloves (of the same type).
Reviewer:
IDEHA| Takahiro Ishizawa
I was born and raised in a remote corner of Zao and grew up enjoying skiing in the fields and mountains from a young age. I have been guiding on Mt. Gassan for 27 years, and I never get tired of the joy of skiing in this area. I guide because I want to share this excitement with others. I also work as a drone pilot for Cocoheli, helping to search for lost people in mountain areas and promoting safe mountain climbing
"Use ARC'TERYX depending on the activity and temperature" | TERUI DAICHI
ARC'TERYX | Fission SV Gloves
This is ARC'TERYX's warmest model. The combination of abrasion-resistant, waterproof, and breathable materials protects your hands in a variety of BC conditions. PrimaLoft® Silver and Gold insulation provide exceptional warmth. The breathable Octa® Loft lining maintains optimal humidity levels inside the glove. High-quality goat leather is used in double layers for increased durability. It also makes putting on and taking off the gloves easier
Color: Black/Tatsu (2 colors in total)
Size: S, M, L
¥34,100
ARC'TERYX |Venta AR Gloves
The brushed lining is thick and warm, while the outer fabric is highly waterproof, repelling snow and light rain. The patterning allows for delicate finger movements, and the palm and fingertips are reinforced with high-quality goat leather for excellent grip and durability.
Color: Black (1 color)
Size: S, M, L, XL
¥18,700
ARC'TERYX |Venta Gloves
These gloves are made with GORE-TEX INFINIUM™, which offers excellent windproof, water-resistant, and breathable properties. These lightweight softshell garments are resistant to wind and rain. The brushed lining provides a thick, warm feel, and the outer layer is perfectly suited to snow and light rain. The gloves offer increased grip and are less likely to absorb moisture, allowing you to use your smartphone or touchscreen while wearing them
Color: Tatsu (Boxcar, Black, 3 colors)
Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
¥12,100
◆Official Website:https://arcteryx.jp/
[Favorite Models and Why]
When hiking or when it's not too cold, I like the ARC'TERYX Venta AR. It has the best balance of warmth and grip. It's very easy to use, and I also use it for ice climbing. When it's cold, I use the ARC'TERYX Fission SV 5-finger gloves.
[Tips for Using Gloves]
When hiking, I use thin gloves, and when skiing or in low temperatures, I use medium-thick or thick gloves depending on the perceived temperature. Also, depending on the mountain area in the dead of winter or the duration of the trip, I use extra-thick gloves, and for digging snow caves, I use Temres, etc., depending on the conditions.
Reviewer:
Daichi TERUI
While attending university, he aspired to become a mountain guide and studied under international mountain guide Hirofumi Ishizaka. Upon graduating, he became a certified guide by the Japan Mountain Guides Association. In his early twenties, he began heli-ski guide training in Northern Europe and experienced mountaineering and ski touring in the European Alps
"I always have several Black Diamond models with different thicknesses and uses." | Infield Toyokazu Nakano
Black Diamond | Mission
The combination of Gore-Tex® and PrimaLoft® Gold provides durability and warmth. The palm is made of soft and durable goat leather, and the back is made of ripstop polyester. This versatile model is perfect for all backcountry activities
Color: Cork/Brown (2 colors in total)
Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
¥14,850
Black Diamond | Impulse
Made from supple and durable goat leather, these gloves feature Gore-Tex® and PrimaLoft® Gold Cross Core for superior warmth. EVA padding on the back of the hand and thumb enhances protection. The neoprene cuff keeps your wrist warm and provides a comfortable fit. These high-end freeride gloves are designed with a focus on functionality and a design that's perfect for connoisseurs
Color: Beeswax/Walnut (Black/Black, 2 colors total)
Size: S, M, L, XL
¥25,300
Black Diamond | Terminator Gloves
The supple stretch shell is lined with waterproof and breathable BD.dry material to ensure waterproofing. The Thinsulate® and fleece lining provide ample warmth. The three-dimensional design of the fingertips allows for easy movement. Starting with the 2024-2025 season, the jacket features an environmentally friendly PFC-free water-repellent finish
Color: Black (1 color)
Size: S, M, L, XL
¥14,850
◆Official Website/https://www.lostarrow.co.jp/store/c/c10/
[Favorite Models and Why]
My main gloves are Black Diamond's Spark, which I used to love. I mainly use them when skiing in cooler temperatures. I like them because they are basic gloves with a good balance of leather flexibility that makes it easy to grip poles and warmth. I like to tuck my gloves inside the cuff of my jacket, so I choose models with a neat wrist area. Currently, they offer similar models called "Mission" and "Impulse".
For climbing in colder temperatures and spring tours, I used to use Black Diamond's Arc, but for the '24-'25 season, I will be using the Terminator gloves, which are equivalent to it. They are a model with a good fit and high dexterity, and are the most convenient gloves to use, so I use them most often. They are also sufficiently waterproof and can handle rain.
[Tips for Using Gloves]
I always carry multiple models of gloves with different thicknesses and uses. I bring different combinations depending on the season and the type of tour, such as gloves for cold weather, models with high dexterity, and models with high waterproofness. Personally, I don't like layering with inner gloves.
Review
Warefield|Toyokazu Nakano
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 mountain climbing/trekking guide and sea kayaking guide in the summer
Separate gloves for skiing and hiking | Spur Akita Mountain Guide Service, Mariko Sato
HESTRA ｜Army Leather Wool Terry
This all-leather five-finger model features a removable wool liner. The palm is made of durable and breathable goat leather. The instep and outer fingers are made of soft, supple cowhide leather for improved comfort and operability. The warm, brushed wool liner on the inside of the instep maintains heat even when slightly damp
Color: Natural Yellow (4 colors available: Grey, Cork, Forest)
Size: 6-10 Size Guide
¥22,000
HESTRA｜Ergo Grip Active Wool
The popular "Ergo Grip Active" features a wool liner. Based on the windproof and waterproof GORE WINDSTOPER, the palm is made of supple goat leather. The Ergo Grip is 3D cut and sewn to fit the natural curvature of the hand, allowing for easy and convenient fine finger movements
Color: Orange/Off White (5 colors total: Black, Navy, Red, Dark Forest/Black)
Size: 6-10 size guide
¥17,600
◆Official Website:Hestra Gloves Japan (full-marks.com)
McKinley | Inner Gloves
These inner gloves are a staple in outdoor environments. Their popularity stems from their perfect thinness, warmth, and excellent fit.
The ceramic coating provides superior anti-static properties, and the antibacterial and deodorizing effects prevent odors. They are durable and resistant to pilling. Made with newly developed multifilament yarn (Asahi Kasei Leona(R) 66), they offer exceptional heat retention and quick-drying properties. The special double-layer structure ensures a perfect fit.
Color: Burgundy (7 colors total)
Size: Free Size
¥770
[Favorite Models and Why]
I use "Army Leather Wool Terry" for skiing and "Ergo Grip Active Wool" for hiking. I tend to sweat a lot in my hands when skiing and hiking, so inner gloves are essential. I prefer McKinley inner gloves because they are thin, fit well, and are my favorite.
[Tips for Using Gloves]
I use different gloves for skiing and hiking. I also use inner gloves. Especially when touring, I use five-finger gloves considering dexterity and other factors. (Although I sometimes use Lobster gloves when skiing or on groomed slopes.)
Reviewer:
Spur Akita Mountain Guide Service| Mariko Sato
He competed in alpine skiing until high school, then moved on to basic skiing. He has competed in the All Japan Ski Technical Championships. Something happened that made him fall in love with mountain skiing, and he decided to become a guide, studying at the International Natural Environment and Outdoor College (i-nac) and becoming a professional guide
"I love the HESTRA model, which has good heat retention and allows me to do detailed work with five fingers." | Kazuya Igarashi, Kagura Powder Station
HESTRA | Heli Ski GTX
*This model was discontinued last season. The regular Heli Ski (without GORE-TEX) is still available as a standard item in the lineup.
30570 Heli Ski | FULLMARKS (full-marks.com)
Made from supple, strong, and highly grippy goat army leather and 4-way stretch nylon with a GORE-TEX membrane. It has a two-layer lining, so you can leave the liner out during warmer months
Color: Black
Size: 6-10 Size Guide
¥30,800 (last year's price)
HESTRA｜Windshield Liner
This liner is made of wind-resistant windshield material. The palm is made of polyester fleece, and the sidewalls are made of breathable mesh. The palm and fingertips feature grip print, and the thumb and index finger are touchscreen compatible. It can be used as a liner for gloves with interchangeable liners
Material: 91% Polyester/9% Tricot, Fleece Cuff, Grip Print, Touch Point (forefinger and thumb)
Color: Black (Navy - 2 colors total)
Size: 6-10 Size Guide
¥7,700
◆Official Website:Hestra Gloves Japan (full-marks.com)
[Favorite Models and Why]
Hestra's HELI ski GTX and Windshield Liner. They provide good insulation and the five-finger design allows for detailed work.
[Tips for Using Gloves]
I carry overmittens, hiking spring gloves, and spare gloves. I use wool for the inner lining. I always carry Gore-Tex overmittens.
Reviewer:
Kagura Powder Station|Kazuya Igarashi
After becoming 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. In 2008, he climbed Mount Everest with Miura. He currently works as a backcountry ski and mountaineering guide, supporting Kagura Powder Station
"Comfortable with breathable material, and five-finger design for superior gear grip" | COLOR SPORT CLUB Tomohiro Shakawa
HESTRA｜Omni GTX Full Leather
This Japan-exclusive model was created in response to requests from guides and riders who ski Japan's snowy mountains. The palm is made of durable and strong goat leather, while the instep and sides are made of supple cowhide leather, ensuring optimal placement of materials. The five-finger design with an outseam reduces unnecessary pressure on the fingertips, offering excellent maneuverability. The entire interior is lined with a waterproof, breathable GORE-TEX membrane, ensuring reliable protection from snow
Color: Grey/Brown (4 colors total: Black, Cork/Cork, Navy/Black, Cork)
Size: 5-10 (size guide)
¥23,100
◆Official Website:Hestra Gloves Japan (full-marks.com)
[Favorite Model and Why]
I use HESTRA's Omni GTX Full Leather. I use a short cuff type that doesn't restrict wrist movement. I also use a five-finger type that can handle detailed work. I prefer a type that combines durable leather with excellent water resistance and breathability.
[Tips for Using Gloves]
I always carry a thin inner glove. For cold weather protection, I use a set with overgloves that have enhanced Gore-Tex functionality.
Reviewer:
COLOR SPORT CLUB|Tomohiro Tonegawa
He is a pioneer who built the backcountry ski scene that continues to this day. Since the early 1990s, he has turned his attention to off-piste skiing, pioneering the mountain ski scene in the harsh winter. Even after achieving the development of the entire Hakuba ski field, which is now synonymous with his name, his pioneering work continues
"I've always loved these" | KinTouN Backcountry Guide Kenichi Minegishi
HESTRA | Wakayama・Ergo Grip Active Wool・Army Leather Wool Terry
Wakayama
These technical riding gloves are surprisingly soft to wear. Crafted from precision-tanned cowhide leather, the removable liner is made from highly insulating brushed wool. The palm cuff is made of neoprene for a snug fit, and the nylon drawcord makes them easy to put on and take off, while the straps can be easily attached to the wrist
Color: Forest/Cork
Size: 6-10 Size Guide
¥20,900
Ergo Grip Active Wool
These technical riding gloves are surprisingly soft to wear. Crafted from precision-tanned cowhide leather, the removable liner is made from highly insulating brushed wool. The palm cuff is made of neoprene for a snug fit, and the nylon drawcord makes them easy to put on and take off, while the straps can be easily attached to the wrist
Color: Forest/Cork (5 colors total)
Size: 6-10 Size Guide
¥17,600
Army Leather Wool Terry
The "Army Leather Wool Terry" is an all-leather five-finger style with a built-in removable wool liner, and has been updated with a new design. The palm side is made of durable and breathable goat leather. The back of the hand and the outside of the fingers are made of soft and flexible cow leather, improving comfort and operability. The brushed wool liner maintains heat retention even when slightly damp. It's also removable and washable, which is a plus
Color: Gray
Size: 6-10 Size Guide
¥22,000
◆Official Website:Hestra Gloves Japan (full-marks.com)
[Favorite Models and Why]
I've been using these for a long time and I really like them. The army leather gloves have a wool liner that makes it easy to put my hands in and out even when wet, and it can be removed and washed, so I can keep them clean.
[Tips for Using Gloves]
I always carry a spare pair of gloves in my backpack. In early spring, I often wear thin gloves, but I also carry gloves for the coldest winter days as a backup.
Reviewer
KinTouN Backcountry Guide(KinToun) | Kenichi Minegishi
He has been a backcountry guide since 2003. He runs a members-only club, "Valley of the Wind," a traditional Japanese campsite in Yamakita Town, western Kanagawa Prefecture. Together with members he has met through backcountry skiing, he builds campsites and playgrounds in the mountains using DIY methods
"Made in Japan, so it fits comfortably in the hands of Japanese people" | WARP Arima Arata
HIMARAK｜OAKⅡ
Five-finger leather gloves. Suitable for hiking, work, and the coldest winter seasons. Suitable for temperatures from 0 to -9°C.
Color: Tan (Turquoise blue, Red - 3 colors total)
Size: S-LL
¥14,850
◆Official Website:https://himarak.co.jp/
[Favorite Models and Why]
I use HIMARAK leather gloves, the 3-finger model for the coldest winter months, and the 5-finger OAK II for winter hikes and spring skiing. I'm currently developing gloves for spring hikes. These are Japanese-made leather gloves, so the sizing is good, and because they're made in Japan, they fit Japanese hands well.
[Tips for Using Gloves]
I generally use gloves without inner liners, and I always keep a spare in my backpack. I also always carry overmittens during the coldest winter months.
Reviewer
WARP|Arata Arima
In the 2002-2003 season, he and his friends founded WARP, the first guide club in the Minakami area. They are active mainly in the Tanigawa, Hotaka, and Kagura areas. As a freeriding-focused guide club, they continue to focus on developing local areas rather than focusing on peak hunting
"All-leather construction is durable" | Kuroda Mountain Guide Office, Makoto Kuroda
MILLET |Leather Sherpa Gloves
Made from high-quality goat leather, it's soft and allows for easy finger movement even in cold environments. The inside is lined with sherpa fleece for excellent heat retention and breathability, making it comfortable to wear for long periods of time
Color：HONEY MUSTARD | N8779
Size：XS,S,M,L
￥19,800
[Favorite model and why]
Because it's all leather and durable. I like that the wrist length is just right.
[Tips for using gloves]
I carry two pairs of gloves with different thicknesses, and I always have a single-piece Gore-Tex overmitt with me.
Reviewer: Makoto Kuroda, Kuroda Mountain Guide Office
With private guides for small groups, we support original mountain trips suited to each level. We provide services that value not only skiing but also the spirit of travel
"The gloves made from Hokkaido's Ezo deer are very flexible!" | Mountain Guide Coyote Furuichi Ryuta
Niseko Glove | "Snow Glove" Semi-Custom Made Model
This custom-made glove by Mr. Furuichi features an outer glove made from Ezo deer leather and a synthetic fiber liner glove, both customized to his specifications and produced on a semi-custom basis.
Niseko Glove offers a wide range of options for color, size, and liner, allowing for detailed customization. There are approximately seven leather colors to choose from, and it's possible to order a combination of one or two basic colors. The photo shows a five-finger/short cuff type. Other options include mittens and three-finger styles, with short and long cuff options.
Size: M-S1 (currently available in 42 variations).
A set of outer and liner gloves costs between 20,000 and 30,000 yen.
◆Official Website:https://niseko-glove.amebaownd.com
[Favorite Model and Why]
Gloves made from Hokkaido deer leather are very supple and easy to grip. And yet they are extremely durable! Niseko Glove offers semi-custom orders, so this is a "leave it to us" order with the request "based on earth tones, with a touch of playfulness." Designer and owner Kamata-san thought about the combination of leather colors, and said, "We mainly used green and brown, and added a playful touch by using natural leather only on the inside of the fingertips."
[Tips for Using Gloves]
I always keep spare gloves in my backpack. I wear inner gloves and then leather gloves over them. I use five-finger gloves. In spring, I use thinner leather gloves.
Reviewer Mountain
Guide Coyote|Ryuta Furuichi
Interested in the environment and food, after graduating from Meiji University's Faculty of Agriculture, he joined a company in Hokkaido to live in the magnificent country. He founded Mountain Guide Coyote to feel closer to nature and live a life that has no impact on the environment. He loves telemark skiing down snowy mountains
"It's durable, soft, and warm. It's perfect for me, as my fingertips get cold easily." | Kenji Akutsu, Telemark School & Ski Guide, Izumiya AK.T
SCOTT | Explorer Plus
It's easy to move around in, has excellent maneuverability, and is durable and warm. The shell is made of 90% goat leather and 90% nylon, with GORE-TEX Windstopper material for high durability and breathability, allowing sweat to evaporate. The padding is filled with Primasoft for excellent warmth. It's also windproof, allowing you to stay comfortable all day long
Color: Black / Burnt Orange (2 colors total)
Size: S, M, L, LL
¥18,480
◆Official Website:https://www.caravan-web.com/brand_scott-wintersport/
[Favorite model and why]
The leather is durable, yet soft and warm. It has high heat retention, which is perfect for me as my fingertips tend to get cold easily. Also, the index finger and thumb are reinforced, so even though I use them extensively during lessons and guiding, they don't get holes easily, which is very useful.
[Tips for using gloves]
I always bring winter rubber gloves (Temres) as a backup or for snow shoveling.
Reviewer
Telemark School & Ski Guide Izumiya AK.T| Kenji Akutsu
He currently lives in Minamiaizu, where he runs a Nango tomato farm in the summer and telemark school and ski guide Izumiya AK.T in the winter
"These gloves are easy to use and are the ones I wear most often throughout the season." | Jun Nagai , JUNRINA mountain service
Swany Gloves｜SX-206 Spring Glove
The combination of soft goat leather and GORE INFINIUM, which is lightweight, windproof, and breathable, and the unique three-dimensional Pre-Curve cutting maintains the natural position of the hand, achieving a bare-handed fit
Color: BK/MOL (BK/SGL, BK/SLB, BK total 4 colors)
Size: Men's XS,S,M,L｜Ladies XS,S,M
¥14,300
◆Official Website:https://www.swanyglove.jp/
[Favorite Model and Why]
These are the gloves I use most often during the season. The model name is Spring, but the back of the hand is made of softshell, which keeps me warm and allows sweat to escape easily. They also provide a good grip on trekking poles, and make tasks such as applying and removing stickers, taking notes, and operating beacons easier.
[Tips for Using the Gloves]
I use two pairs of gloves (both five-fingered) – one pair for cold weather and one pair for regular use – plus one pair of overgloves (shell only).
Reviewer:
JUNRINA mountain service|Jun Nagai
He quit his job and began working at Tateyama Raicho-so while undergoing guide training. In 2010, he started working as JUNRINA mountain service. He has extensive experience on backcountry trips overseas. In summer and autumn, he works as a mountaineering guide, mainly in the Alps and Joshinetsu region, and in winter and spring as a backcountry ski guide
"Impressions for skiers who are sensitive to the cold and dislike wearing inner gloves" | CIRCLE GAME guide service Shohei Sasaki
Swany Gloves｜SX-202 classic combi glove
The combination of leather and fabric makes these gloves lightweight and provides excellent warmth. The palm side uses durable cowhide, making them resistant to friction and abrasion, ensuring long-lasting use. Soft, water-repellent goatskin and fabric are used on the back of the hand, while cowhide is used on the palm side.
Features a GORE-TEX insert for superior water resistance and breathability.
Cold Level -15~-5℃:
Color: MOL/BK (BK, BK/AV, BK/SGL, GRY/BK, WH/BK 6 colors in total)
Size: Men's XS, S, M, L | Ladies XS, S, M
¥18,700
◆Official Website:https://www.swanyglove.jp/
This review is aimed at skiers who are sensitive to the cold and dislike wearing inner gloves. The Classic Combo Gloves offer a great balance of warmth and operability. As a guide, I strive to be able to perform all tasks efficiently and quickly in the backcountry
Reviewer:
CIRCLE GAME guide service|Shohei Sasaki
Originally from Nanae-cho, Hokkaido, he is based in Sapporo and works as a backcountry ski guide in the winter and a guide in the Hokkaido wilderness in the summer. He likes to combine climbing and skiing
"It's safe even when wet and warm because it has three fingers" | Masaaki Sato
Swany Gloves｜SX-113 Valcan
The entire surface is made of soft, water-repellent goat leather. The unique cut wraps around the hand, providing a comfortable fit and excellent operability
Cold Level -15 to -5℃:
Color: BEG/SGL (8 colors in total: BK, WH, SGL, NV/STG, SUM/LDT, MOL/CML, MT/BEG)
Size: 7, 8, 9, 10 Size Guide
: XS, S, M, L
¥20,900
◆Official Website:https://www.swanyglove.jp/
[Favorite model and why]
The leather is soft and the grip on the poles is good, and it uses GORE-TEX so it's safe even when wet, and it's warm because it's a three-finger design.
[Tips for using gloves]
I always bring gloves for skiing (five-finger or three-finger), for hiking (thin leather gloves for rope work), Temres (for checking snow layers and building snow caves), overmittens, and nitrile gloves.
Reviewer:
Masaaki Sato
He has been fond of skiing since he was a child, and has had experience in competitive and basic skiing, moving to Hakuba Village at the age of 20. He became interested in backcountry skiing at the age of 24. He gained experience at Port Snow Hakuba and Power Zone Hakuba before going independent