When choosing a backpack for backcountry skiing, several important points must be considered: it must be able to securely store safety gear and other essential items, while not interfering with climbing or skiing. The staff at pro shops, who have the ability to compare and consider many different products and gather feedback from users, are highly adept at discerning quality. So, we asked them to tell us which backpacks they highly recommend from the 2025-2026 season models.
CHUGACH Series | THE NORTH FACE

Chugach 35
Capacity: WM 32ℓ, M 34ℓ, L 38ℓ
Weight: WM/ approx. 1,555g, M/ approx. 1,625g, L/ approx. 1,705g
Size: WM, M, L
Color: Black
¥36,300
◆ Official website: https://www.goldwin.co.jp/tnf/
The CHUGACH series not only features avalanche gear pockets and carry-ons, but also a hydration sleeve, which is surprisingly rare. There are many sizes and liters to choose from, so if you're having trouble deciding on a backpack, this is the perfect choice.
Reviewer
Ishii Sports Links Umeda Store
Staff/Yanagida Yasunari

Khroma 30 |RAB

Capacity: 30 liters
Weight: 1,220g
Size (H x W x D): 54 x 30 x 25cm
Color: Pewter
¥39,600
◆Official website: https://rab-equipment.jp/
Its simple, white-based design makes it suitable for mountaineering even in the snowy season. Its back panel is also resistant to snow buildup. While this backpack is still relatively new to the market, it's a great choice for anyone looking for a functional backpack that won't look like everyone else's.
Reviewer
Ishii Sports Yodobashi Kofu
Staff / Yuki Amari

FREERIDER PRO 34+ | Deuter

Capacity: 34 + 10 liters
Weight: 1,280g
Size (H x W x D): 58 x 35 x 18cm
Color: Cactus x Sprout (Black, Light Blue x Neptune, 3 colors in total)
¥33,000
◆Official website: https://www.iwatani-primus.co.jp/products/deuter/index.html
The top of the backpack is equipped with a capacity expansion function that can accommodate additional luggage, such as rear access and a large front pocket. The shoulder straps are slightly thicker for a comfortable fit when riding. This is a recommended backpack that is well-equipped yet lightweight.
Reviewer
Ishii Sports Kanda Main Building
Staff Makoto Shimoyama

PATROL E2 38|SCOTT

Capacity: 38 liters
Weight: 1,620g
Size (H x W x D): 65 x 32 x 21cm
Color: black (flow blue, 2 colors available)
¥71,500
◆ Official HP / https://www.scott-sports.com/jp/ja/
Equipped with the much talked about Alpride E2, the lightest electric airbag in its class! Made with durable Cordura fabric, it's safe even on tough mountains. Even with the system included, it's only 2,760g light! It gives you peace of mind when climbing and skiing. Plus, you can use the airbag with your skis still secured, so you can feel safe in case of an emergency! It's compatible with both skis and snowboards, so it's highly recommended for backcountry skiers too!
Review Watt
Ski Lab NORD
Staff/Umemoto Masato

Sensate Pro 32 | Haglöfs

Capacity: 32ℓ
Weight: 1,415g (S/M), 1,460g (M/L)
Size: S/M, M/L
Color: Habanero/Blaze Orange (True Black, 2 colors)
¥30,800
◆Official website: https://haglofs.jp/
This bag has all the features you need in a backcountry bag. The main compartment is accessible from the back and top, making it easy to organize and access your belongings. It also has side pockets for storing ski seals and crampons, and can be adjusted to suit the situation.
Reviewer
Xraeb sports
Staff / Taketo Yamada

SHUMARI 35 EVO|PLUS ONE WORKS

Capacity: 35ℓ
Weight: 1,700g
Back length: 50cm
Color: Black (Coyote 2 colors)
¥36,300
◆Official website: https://www.full-marks.com/plusoneworks
This backpack has a simple design and is packed with the bare essentials. The shoulder harness and waist belt are sturdy, so the backpack fits snugly to your body without shaking while riding, which is another plus point. The shoulder harness has a size-adjustable buckle at the bottom as well as in the conventional position, allowing you to extend the straps when carrying an injured person in an emergency.
Reviewer Shugakuso
Hokudai Store
Staff / Climbing and Ski Manager - Mr. Minoru Kojiguchi

SOELDEN32|OSPREY

Capacity: 32 liters
Weight: 1,150g
Size: 54 x 31 x 28cm (length x width x depth)
Color: Artisan Yellow (Black, 2 colors available)
¥26,400
◆Official website: https://www.lostarrow.co.jp/osprey/
The backpack capacity has increased from 2025-2026, and the difference between the men's (SOELDEN) and women's (SOPRIS) models is the length of the back and the length of each adjuster. Access to the inside of the backpack is from the back, so the opening is wide, making it easy to find what you're looking for in one go. The light cable attachment position has also been changed, making it easier than ever for those who climb with their skis attached to the backpack.
Reviewer
Mt.Peaks
Staff/Hoshi Yamato

STASH 35|BCA

Capacity: 35ℓ
Weight: 1,780g
Size: 15-21" / 38-53cm
Color: orange
\ 30,800
◆Official website: https://elevateoutdoorcollective.com/brands/backcountry-access?lang=ja
As a manufacturer specializing in avalanche gear, this backpack is easy to pack and is sufficient for a one-day backcountry trip. I also like its simple design.
ReviewWorsky
Pro Shop Azumino
Owner/Fujita Tatsuya

STASH 25|BCA

Capacity: 25ℓ
Weight: 1,588g
Size: S/M:15 ~ 21"/38 - 53cm
Color: black
\ 26,400
◆Official website: https://elevateoutdoorcollective.com/brands/backcountry-access?lang=ja
I've used backpacks with various capacities, including 20L, 30L, and 40L, but I think the 25L is just the right size for a one-day backcountry adventure. When I was thinking about what kind of backpack I should have for backcountry and sidecountry adventures, I thought the 25L was a good size.
Reviewer
TRUNKBASE
Owner / Mikiya Tanno


