For backcountry guides who escort guests through the ever-changing natural environment, being able to "move quickly and efficiently" and "use their hands accurately" are extremely important factors. It goes without saying that gloves play a major role in providing safety, security, enjoyment, and comfort to guests. Let's find out what kind of gloves professional guides trust and use, and hear their professional tips for using them in the mountains
INDEX
"ARC'TERYX: Use it depending on the activity and temperature" | DAICHI TERUI
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. Two types of PrimaLoft® Silver and Gold insulation provide the ultimate in warmth. The lining uses breathable Octa® Loft, which maintains optimal humidity inside the glove. High-quality double-layered goat leather adds durability. It's also easier to put on and take off
Color: Black/Infrared (2 colors in total) Size: XS, S, M, L, XL ¥28,600
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: Black (2 colors in total) Size: XS, S, M, L, XL ¥16,500
◆Official website is here
[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] I always carry three types—thin, medium, and thick—and use them depending on the temperature.
[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, since his early twenties he has gained experience in heli-skiing guide training in Northern Europe, mountaineering in the European Alps, and ski touring. [Qualifications held]
- Completed JMGA Mountain Guide Stage I , JMGA Ski Guide Stage II , and JAN Avalanche Worker Level I.
"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 ¥15,510
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: Cork/Brown (2 colors in total) Size: XS, S, M, L, XL ¥26,400
The shell is made of highly stretchable nylon and features a BDRY insert for excellent waterproof and breathable properties. These gloves are designed based on motocross gloves and emphasize maneuverability
Color: Cork/Brown (2 colors in total) Size: XS, S, M, L, XL ¥13,970
[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 supple leather 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,
Black Diamond offers similar models called "Mission" and "Impulse". For climbing in colder temperatures and on spring tours, I use Black Diamond's Arc. It's a model with a good fit and high dexterity, and it's the most convenient and frequently used glove. It's 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 inner gloves.
[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
"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
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
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 Size: 6-10 Size Guide ¥7,150
[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.
[Main Guide Area] Various routes entering 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 Mountain Climbing Guide Stage II
"The palm is made of cowhide leather, which makes it soft and easy to use." | Vertical Land's Hiroki Ito
SIMOND | SPRINT
These fully waterproof (watertight) gloves offer excellent maneuverability. The entire palm is made of full-grain cowhide leather, providing excellent flexibility and maneuverability. The waterproof membrane is 10,000mm water-resistant, the palm is full-grain leather for abrasion resistance, and the back of the hand is water-repellent. They also feature an elastic wrist loop that allows you to hang the gloves around your wrist when you're not wearing them
The Ergo Grip is designed with patterning and three-dimensional cutting to make it easier to grip the poles. The palm is made of durable and strong goat leather and nylon fabric mixed with a waterproof and breathable membrane. The back of the hand is made of supple cowhide leather molded into an accordion pattern. The short cuff with Velcro closure is made of neoprene for a comfortable fit
[Favorite Models and Why] SIMOND's SPRINT allows for good finger dexterity and easy work. It's also suitable for climbing. The soft cowhide palm provides excellent operability. It's perfect for warmer days and spring, and in winter, it's best used with inner gloves. HESTRA's Army Leather Couloir offers a snug fit and warmth from the base of the fingers to the fingertips. The cut allows for easy hand movement. It's rare to find gloves that offer such a good fit while also providing excellent warmth.
[Tips for Using Gloves] I bring the above gloves plus a thicker pair for extremely cold weather (such as thick wool gloves with overgloves). I also always carry an extra pair for myself and to lend to customers if they lose their gloves or if it's colder than expected.
[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)
"It can be used in a variety of situations and is highly durable." | Kuroda Mountain Guide Office, Makoto Kuroda
HESTRA｜ERGO GRIP TACTILE SHORT
These short gloves feature ERGO GRIP technology, which follows the natural curves of the hand and allows for comfortable fingertips. The back of the hand is made of GORE-TEX INFINIUM WINDSTOPPER Breeze, which is both windproof and breathable, while the palm is made of durable goat leather. Hestra's proprietary Czone Tactile construction uses a film attached to the glove shell, preventing the film from interfering with hand sensation. These gloves can also be used in sports other than snow
[Favorite model and why] Hestra's short gloves with Ergo Grip. They work perfectly for both skiing and climbing, and are very durable.
[Tips for using gloves] It's essential to bring at least two sets. Consider the thickness based on the altitude difference for the day, and if it's an overnight trip, the altitude during the tour and the approximate time schedule.
[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
"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
[Favorite Model and Why] I use HESTRA's Omni GTX Full Leather. The breathable material makes it comfortable, and the five-finger design provides excellent grip on gears. I use it with an overglove when it gets cold.
[Tips for Using Gloves] I always carry a thin inner glove. For cold weather protection, I use it with an overglove that has enhanced Gore-Tex functionality.
[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
"I like wool underwear because it doesn't get sticky even when I sweat." | Locus Guide Service, Kazuya Furuse
HESTRA ｜ARMY LEATHER WOOL TERRY
The gloves are made of all-leather and include a removable wool liner. The palm side is made of durable goat leather. The upper side is made of soft, supple cowhide leather for improved comfort and operability. The inside of the upper is lined with a warm, brushed wool liner, which maintains heat even when slightly humid
[Favorite model and why] For someone like me whose hands get cold easily, this model offers the best balance of warmth and the dexterity needed for backcountry skiing. I like that the wool inner lining doesn't get sticky even when I sweat on the ascent, and it doesn't get cold afterward.
[Tips for using gloves] I always carry a spare pair of gloves. I use hand cuffs and take care not to lose my gloves in strong winds. I don't want my gloves to get wet, so I avoid climbing with just the inner lining or letting the outer lining hang down when it's snowing.
[Profile] As a result of pursuing the art of skiing, my field of activity shifted from ski resorts to the backcountry, and I have gained experience as both a skier and a guide. [Qualifications Held] ・JMGA Ski Guide Stage II ・JAN Avalanche Operations Personnel Level 2
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
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
The all-leather five-finger style "LEATHER WOOL" with a built-in removable wool liner has been redesigned and updated. The palm side is made of durable and breathable goat leather. From the back of the hand to the outside of the fingers, soft and flexible cow leather is used to improve comfort and operability. The brushed wool liner maintains heat retention even when slightly damp. It is also nice that it is removable and washable
[Main Guide [Profile] guide since 2003. Runs a members-only club and renovated traditional Japanese house camp "Kaze no Tani" (Valley of the Wind) in Yamakita Town, western Kanagawa Prefecture. Together with members he connected with through backcountry skiing, he has been building campsites and playgrounds in the mountains through DIY. "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 a sense of freedom precisely because there was risk."
[Qualifications Held] JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
"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
The leather is durable, yet soft and warm. Its excellent heat retention makes it perfect for me, as my fingertips tend to get cold easily. The reinforced index finger and thumb also make it hard to get holes in them, even when using them heavily during lessons and guides
[Main guiding area] Fukushima Prefecture: Minamiaizu and Hinoemata area [Qualifications held] JMGA Mountain Guide Stage II , JMGA Ski Guide Stage II , TAJ Telemark Ski Instructor
"Impressions for skiers who are sensitive to the cold and dislike wearing inner gloves" | CIRCLE GAME guide service Shohei Sasaki
Swany Gloves｜sx-2 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 to -5℃: Color: NV (6 colors total) Size: 7, 8, 9, 10 Size Guide: XS, S, M, L ¥18,700
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
[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
I also love SWANY Classic Combi Gloves
They offer good insulation and flexibility, providing a good grip on the poles. I prefer flexible five-finger gloves for writing, as they allow me to easily record snow depth and condition data.
[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
"I'm currently using a gift I received, plus my innerwear is from Patagonia." |Rhythm Works Asahi Ritta
TRUCK gloves | M1
The back and palm of the hand are made of goat leather, which is waterproof, durable, and breathable. The palm is further reinforced to withstand tough use. The inside is lined with warm, brushed polar fleece, ensuring reliable warmth. These gloves have even been awarded an editor's choice by an overseas ski magazine as a glove for backcountry use
These versatile liner gloves feature a smooth, soft outer surface that's easy to layer with, while the hollow yarn and diamond grid pattern inner lining provides warmth, moisture management, and quick drying
Color: Cork/Brown (2 colors in total) Size: XS, S, M, L, XL ￥6,600
[Favorite model and why] M1 TRUCK gloves. The inner gloves are Patagonia Capilene Midweight Liner Gloves. The reason I use M1 is because I received them as a thank you gift from photographer Jay, who was in Shirakawa-go with the Utah crew.
[Tips for using gloves] In the dead of winter, I carry a different type of glove as a backup in addition to the one I use as my main glove.
