A backpack that packs the necessary equipment to go out in the backcountry (BC). Not only is it important for ensuring safety, but it also has a big impact on the quality of skiing because you ski with it on your back. I want to be particular about choosing a backpack to enjoy BC safely and to the fullest. We asked BC specialists and BC guides what kind of backpacks they use every day. I asked him about the good points. There are a lot of points that will help you in choosing your next backpack.
ARC'TERYX｜RUSH SK 42 BACKPACK
The roll top type can be expanded up to 50 liters. This backpack uses two types of high-performance materials placed in the right places to increase durability while reducing weight. Optimized for portability, weather resistance, and ease of organization for backcountry tours. Skis can be mounted on the sides in an A-frame position and in the front in a diagonal position. Although it has a capacity of 32 liters, the ``Rush SK 42'' has a guide specification that expands to 50 liters if you want 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)
¥38,500
Click here for the official website
“It has excellent storage and is easy to use” | IDEHA Takahiro Ishizawa
As a backpack for BC, it has the best storage capacity and ease of use. Particularly convenient is the space that can accommodate shovels, sondes, and snowsaws, separate from the main storage room for the rucksack, allowing for quick access in case of an emergency. The upper pool top also makes it easy to take things in and out, and the upper pocket has a large storage capacity. The size of the rucksack itself is just right for a 1-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 an early age.
It's been 27 years since I started guiding at Mt. Gassan, and I never tire of the fun of skiing in this area. I would like to convey this excitement to everyone, so I am providing a guide. In addition, as a drone pilot for Cocoheli, I am involved in searching for lost people in mountain areas, and I also carry out educational activities on safe mountain climbing.
[Qualifications]
・JMGA Mountain Guide Stage I
・JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
・Japan Telemark Ski Association Certified Instructor
ARC'TERYX｜RUSH SK 32 BACKPACK
The roll top type can be expanded from 32ℓ to a maximum of 40ℓ. This backpack uses two types of high-performance materials placed in the right places to increase durability while reducing weight. Optimized for portability, weather resistance, and ease of organization for backcountry tours. Skis can be attached to the A-frame. For backcountry tours in the high season, the ``Rush SK 32'', which expands to 40 liters, has enough capacity.
Capacity: 32ℓ
Size (Height x Width x Depth): 63 x 28 x 32cm
Weight: 920g
Color: Black (2 Fluidity colors)
¥36,300
Click here for the official website
"It's light, has a good shape, and has little effect on the center of gravity." | Daichi TERUI Daichi Terui
I like it because it is light, the shape of the pack is good, and it has little effect on the center of gravity.
Reviewer
Daichi Terui
[Main guide 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 by the Japan Mountain Guide Association and started guiding. As for his own activities, since his early 20s he has experienced heli-skiing guide training in Northern Europe, mountain climbing in the European Alps, and ski touring. [Qualifications held]
- JMGA Mountain Guide Stage I
, JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
, JAN Avalanche Worker Level I completed
"It has a flexible capacity, is durable, yet lightweight, and highly waterproof." | JUNRINA mountain service Jun Nagai
It has a flexible capacity, is durable, yet lightweight and highly waterproof.
You can arrange how to use it using the silicone band you have. There are various points that I like about using it in the mountains. Specifically... 1. It looks cool!
2. A backcountry bag designed for balanced and comfortable carrying
3. Simple construction, lightweight, weatherproof, durable and waterproof
4. Convenient removable helmet retention system
5 The roll top allows you to create a capacity of several liters depending on the number of rolls.
6. The side zipper is wide, making it easy to take out the contents.
7. You can attach gear with silicone bands, etc.
8. The back can be adjusted to suit the size of your body. Long size short/regular can be selected
Reviewer
JUNRINA mountain serviceJun
Nagai
[Main guide area] Kagura BC, Echigo Yuzawa BC, Tateyama BC
[Profile]
After quitting my job and working at Tateyama Raichoso, I went through guide training and started working as JUNRINA mountain service in 2010.
He has many overseas backcountry trips. In the summer and fall, he works as a mountain climbing guide mainly in the Alps and Joshinetsu, and in the winter and spring he works as a backcountry ski guide. [Qualifications]
・JMGA Mountaineering Guide Stage III
・JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
・JAN Avalanche Worker Level 1
ARVA｜SWITCH TOUR Bundle (25+40) AIRBAG
Although it is equipped with an avalanche airbag released by ARVA, which develops beacons, it can also be used as a standalone backpack with a switch system, which is extremely innovative in that the capacity can be changed. Avalanche gear can be stored in the front pocket, skis can be attached to either A-frame or diagonal skis, and it has all the functions of a regular backpack, but it also comes with an airbag, making it multi-purpose.
Click here for the official website
"The airbag system is removable! The capacity can be changed, making it incredibly versatile" | BLUECLIFF Michio Takimoto
ARVA SWITCH TOUR Bundle (25+40) AIRBAG is the lightest with an airbag system. The air type always opens, giving you a sense of security. Since the capacity can be easily changed, it can be used for everything from day tours to tours with bivouac. The airbag system can also be removed, so you can 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 interested in climbing, including the Mont Blanc Major route and the North Face of Dru.
Since then, he has been active all over the country, focusing on free climbing and backcountry snowboarding. In 2000 he moved to Hakuba Village and started mountain guiding activities. [Qualifications held]
・UIAGIM
・IFMGA International Mountain Guide
BCA｜FLOAT E2 35L
'22-23 season, new battery-powered float bag from BCA. The new E2 system uses Alpride's supercapacitor fan drive system to store energy and power the compressor during deployment. It stores and releases energy based on magnetic energy instead of chemical reactions like secondary batteries. For this reason, it is attractive that it is highly reliable even at 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
Click here for the official website
“The float system is extremely reliable” | Kagura Powder Station Kazuya Igarashi
It's lightweight, packs well-balanced, and has all the features a BC needs. The float system is sure and highly reliable.
Reviewer
Kagura Powder Station
Kazuya Igarashi
[Main guide area] Entry from the BC gate at the top of Kagura Ski Resort No. 5 Romance Lift / Other areas: Spring Tateyama, Gassan
,
Mt. Trained by Satoya, Miura, Tsukuda, and Hara.
He worked with Yuichiro Miura and was active in Snow Dolphin. In 2008, he climbed Mount Everest with Mr. Currently supporting Kagura Powder Station as a BC ski/climbing guide. [Qualifications]
・JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
BLACK DIAMOND | Sark 45
It features a clean silhouette inherited from a climbing pack while providing the functions necessary for backcountry riding. Retractable helmet flap, flexible hip belt, hydration system compatible. Ski attachment can be 2way of A frame diagonal.
Capacity: 35ℓ
Size (height x width x depth): S/M (back length = 41-48cm), M/L (back length = 47-55cm) cm
Weight: S/M = 1,020g, M/L = 1,075g
Color: Black (ultra blue, 2 colors)
¥31,130
Click here for the official website
“Simple and easy to use” | KinTouN Backcountry Guide Kenichi Minegishi
It is simple to make, has a clean appearance, and is easy to use.
It's very lightweight. It is easier to pack each gear separately. Also, thanks to the side zipper, it's easy to take things in and out, even when you're carrying skis on your back. The most distinctive feature is the shape of the opening. When you pull the cord, the flap integrated with the main body closes like a rain cover. When opening it, just pull the looped tape to open it fully, allowing you to access the contents of the backpack very quickly. It's especially convenient when it's snowing. You can load and unload items quickly and smoothly, so you can work without getting the contents of your backpack wet.
Reviewer
KinTouN Backcountry Guide (KinTouN)
Kenichi Minegishi
[Main guide area] Kanetsu area
[Profile]
Backcountry guide since 2003.
Hosts a members-only club and camp in an old folk house called Kaze no Tani in Yamakita Town in western Kanagawa Prefecture. Together with members connected through the backcountry, they are building campsites and playgrounds in the mountains using DIY methods. ``I want to ski on a natural snowy mountain just like skiing on the waves that are the energy of nature, and I want to climb the mountain with my own feet and ski the way I want.It's because of the risk that I felt freedom.''
[Qualifications]
・JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
Deuter｜FREECAPE PRO 40+
By maintaining a uniform shape from the top to the bottom, the fitting function during gliding is enhanced and the weight is reduced. Convenient back access, large front pocket for safety gear, and top pocket for goggles and gear straps. The attachment of the ski can be 2way of A frame diagonal.
Capacity: 40 + 10ℓ
Size (height x width x depth): 70 / 32 / 24cm
Weight: 1500g
Color: Ink x marine (teal x corn, 2 colors in total)
¥36,300
Click here for the official website
“Easy to pack and comfortable to carry on your back” | Makoto Kuroda, Kuroda Mountain Guide Office
It can be used in many situations, including staying in a hut. It's easy to carry on your back and feels comfortable, so you won't feel tired even if you carry it all day long. I'm also happy that it's easy to pack and that there aren't many other people using it. When I'm working as a guide, I use the more all-rounder Freescape Pro 40, and when I'm on a private mountain trip where I can share communal equipment, I use the Deuter FREERIDER 30.
Reviewer
Makoto Kuroda Kuroda Mountain Guide Office
[Main guide area] Focusing on Joshinetsu, to the area of your choice
[Profile]
A private guide with a small number of people, supporting a mountain trip full of originality that suits each level.
We provide services that value not only skiing but also the spirit of travel. [Qualifications]
・International mountain guide
・JAN avalanche operator Level 2
GREGORY | Verte 24
Freeride's hipbelt moves with your body, giving you freedom of movement and support with just the right amount of tension. Gregory's signature hydration sleeve, back panel with snow removal function, vintage zipper with side gussets, durable padded front pocket for storing avalanche gear, and zipper pulls and buckles that are easy to open and close even with gloves on make it extremely easy to use. .
Capacity: 24ℓ
Weight: 1150g
Size (height x width x depth): 48.5 x 27 x 20.5cm
Color: Carbon bronze
¥36,300
Click here for the official website
“Used on tours with short hikes and mainly riding” | Rhythm Works Tatsuta Asahi
Used on tours with short hikes and mostly riding. I like the hipbelt, which looks like a goggle strap, and the simple design, making it easy to move around in. It's compact and can store not only avalanche gear, but also emergency equipment.
ReviewerRhythm
Works
Ryuta Asahi
[Main guide area] Shirakawago, Tateyama, Hakuba, Hirayu, Hoki Daisen *Mainly Hida Mountains and Ryohaku Mountains
[Profile]
Climb the mountains throughout the four seasons according to the rhythm of nature.
A multi-purpose mountain guide who conveys the appeal of a wide range of mountains, from general traverses to variation routes, mountain climbing to backcountry riding. [Qualifications held]
・JMGA Mountain Guide Stage I
・JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
・JAN Avalanche Worker Level 2
GREGORY ｜TARGHEE45
Back access to main compartment. Uses a material that is highly abrasion resistant and snow resistant, has a flexible outer frame, anodized aluminum hooks that are highly durable even in cold climates, all-around compression, avalanche safety pocket in the front pocket, and a helmet carry that can be stored and adjusted. But. The ski carry supports both diagonal and A-frame. With a shoulder harness for a hydration tube and many other features, this tough backpack is ready for overnight trips in winter.
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
Click here for the official website
"Comfortable to carry and a good fit, so you won't be shaken by luggage while skating." Toyokazu Nakano
As a backpack for backcountry use, it fits a shovel and a probe very well. It has enough capacity to put the gear necessary for the guide, and the back is also fully open, making it easy to put in and take out gear. Of course, it is comfortable to carry and has a good fit, so you won't be shaken by your luggage while skiing.
Reviewer
Infield
Toyokazu Nakano
]
Kubiki
area, Hokushin/Others: Mt. Tateyama, Mt. Chokai, etc. Currently, he works as a backcountry tour guide and telemark ski instructor in the winter, and as a mountaineering/trekking guide and sea kayak guide in the summer. [Qualifications]
・JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
・JAN Avalanche
Klattermusen ｜Trud Backpack 44L
Light and strong, perfect
The original 210 denier ripstop
fabric boasts a water pressure resistance of 10,000 mm and is extremely durable. A side zipper provides easy access to the main compartment. Compression is also possible with a one-roll top. Ski attachment, hydration system adopted. The 4-S system, a lightweight load transfer system with quick release buckles and the latest chest strap features, provides high adjustability and control.
Capacity: 44ℓ
Size (Height x Width x Depth): 69 x 29 x 27cm
Weight: 980g
Color: Raven
¥52,800
Click here
for the official website
“Stand out with its cool and cool design and colors!｜CIRCLE GAME guide service Shohei Sasaki
A lightweight, high-capacity alpine backpack.
it weighs less than 1kg, it is very helpful because my shoulders do not hurt even if I carry a load of more than 10kg.
There is plenty of room to store your avalanche gear, and the main compartment can
Above all, it is sure to stand out with its subdued and cool design and color! !
Reviewer
CIRCLE GAME guide service
Shohei Sasaki
[Main Guide Area] Hokkaido
[Profile]
Born in Nanae Town, Hokkaido. Based in Sapporo, he guides backcountry skiing in the winter and guides a wide range of Hokkaido's nature in the summer.
He likes to combine climbing and skiing. [Qualifications held]
・JMGA Climbing Guide Stage II
・JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
MAMUUT｜Trion Nordwand 38
A backpack designed by top athletes for top athletes. Versatile, durable, lightweight and extremely comfortable to carry. Features include an elastic chest strap, height-adjustable flap with internal and external pockets, roll-top closure, hydration system compatibility, and removable compression straps that pull on the sides and front.
Capacity: 38ℓ
Weight: 960g
Size (height x width x depth): 63 / 27.5 / 18.8cm
Color: arumita-night (black 2 colors)
¥29,150
Click here for the official website
"It's convenient to have something specifically designed for backcountry use" | POWERZONE Mamoru Takahashi Hakuba
Backcountry backpacks are useful if you are going to the backcountry.
Reviewer
POWERZONE
Mamoru Takahashi
[Main Guide Area] Hakuba, Otari
[Profile]
Supports Power Zone while traveling throughout Japan as a backcountry guide and ski coach, and as a mountain guide in the summer.
He fell in love with the scenery of Hakuba, Shinshu, and while living in Hakuba, he spends his holidays training to improve his skills. [Qualifications]
・JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
・JMGA Climbing Guide Stage II
・SAJ Ski Instructor
MAMUUT｜Trion 35
MAMMUT's long-established model of alpine backpacks. It has a reputation for high quality materials and excellent finishes. EVA padding is extremely lightweight and highly breathable, the main compartment is accessed through a large zipper on the back, there is a large zippered front pocket that can store avalanche gear, and the top has a large opening for ease of use. The side ski attachments are reinforced and durable.
Capacity: 35ℓ
Weight: 1480g
Size (height x width x depth): 60 / 29 / 11cm
Color: marine black (hot red-marine 2 colors)
¥33,000
Click here for the official website
“Particularly recommended for a day trip to BC!”｜Niseko Mecca Hisataka Tanaka
Especially recommended for day trip BC. Vertical form, double ax device possible. No stress when traveling in the alpine area. It has a flap so it can hold about 40 liters of luggage. The zipper on the back allows you to put in and take out your luggage even if you make it into an A frame.
Reviewer
Niseko Mecca
Hisataka Tanaka
[Main guide area] All of Hokkaido (Asahikawa, Furano, Kiroro, Rusutsu, Mt. Yotei, Niseko)
[Profile]
In addition to the mountains of Hokkaido, overseas climbing in Squamish, BC, Canada, climbing and hiking in the Canadian Rockies, backcountry He also has experience in skiing, tramping, climbing, and backcountry in New Zealand's South Island.
Guide business in Niseko since 2002. [Qualifications]
・JMGA Climbing Guide Stage II
・JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
・NZMSC Avalanche ST1
MILLET｜d tour 30
A medium-capacity snow pack for ski tours that focuses on safety performance.
A removable safety gear pocket provides great convenience. The main storage can also be accessed from the side. In addition, it has functional small pockets and attachments that allow you to quickly take out and store the necessary gear, reducing hassles while on the move. It is packed with features to make climbing and riding more comfortable, including a ski holder that is compatible with both A-frame and diagonal skis, an ice ax holder on the front that is easy to put in and take out, and a helmet holder.
Capacity: 30+10ℓ
Weight: 1038g
Size (height x width x depth): 52 / 27 / 18cm
Color: RED/SAPHIR (BLACK 2 colors)
¥37,400
Click here for the official website
“Simple functionality created for BC is good” | Vertical Land Hiroki Ito
Simple functionality made for the backcountry. Make good use of the side zipper opening to store items such as water bottles and food that you often take out during breaks, making it very easy to access the items inside even though it only has one air chamber.
Reviewer
Vertical Land
Yuki Ito
[Main guide area] Around Hakuba Village, Nagano Prefecture, Northern Alps
[Profile]
At the age of 21, he moved to Canada and started skiing in earnest.
He was influenced by North American ski culture, and at the same time he became interested in mountain skiing. After completing the Yamnuska Mountaineering School, he returned to Japan and opened his own business in January 2020. His guiding concept is “More mountains in life. [Qualifications]
JMGA Mountain Guide Stage I
JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
CAA Operation Level 1 (CAA: Canadian Avalanche Association)
OSPREY | Solden 32
The fit is excellent while providing sufficient capacity. She is a popular model that receives high praise from users who place particular emphasis on slippage. She has very good balance, and by dispersing the load, you won't feel the weight when carrying it on your back. Two-chamber structure with rear access and rain cover. There is also a small storage space on the waist belt, which is convenient for storing food and small items. The 2023/24 model uses 100% Bluesign® certified recycled fabric and PFAS-free DWR processing.
Capacity: 32ℓ
Weight: 1,150g
Size (Height x Width x Depth): 54/ 31/28cm
Color: Artisan Yellow (Black, 2 colors)
¥27,500
Click here
for the official website
“The design allows you to reach itchy areas and the capacity is just right.”｜RIKI JAPOW GUIDE Chikara Nakajima
A goggle pocket to prevent scratches on the back access that cannot be compromised, a zipper pocket and gear loop on the hip belt, a dual-position helmet carry, etc. It is designed to reach itchy places and has just the right amount of capacity.
Reviewer
RIKI JAPOW GUIDERiki
NakajimaRiki Nakajima
[Main guide area] Around Tomamu, Around Furano, Around Asahikawa / Others: Niseko, Rusutsu, Nozawa Onsen
[Profile]
Qualified as a CSIA instructor in Whistler, Canada and the first Japanese CFSA free ski instructor.
From participating in numerous free ski competitions, he expanded his field of activities to the backcountry. Currently, Hoshino Resort's Tomamu ski resort is the base, and he is developing guides and lessons. [Qualifications]
・JMGA Climbing Guide Stage Ⅱ
・JMGA Ski Guide Stage Ⅱ
・JAN Avalanche Worker Level 1
PLUS ONE WORKS | SHUMARI 35
Convenient roll-top gear rack, safety gear stored in dedicated compartment. Rear access, pocket for 2 goggles. The shoulder straps and frame are designed for the Japanese body shape to reduce the weight of the luggage and hinder movement during gliding. .
Capacity: 35ℓ
Weight: 1700g
Size (back length): 50cm
Color: Glass Hopper (Navy, Silver, Coke Red, 4 colors)
¥25,300
Click here for the official website
“Rigidity reduces the burden on the body and allows you to spend a comfortable day” | COLOR SPORT CLUB Tomohiro Sagawa
The rigidity of the backpack reduces the strain on the body from carrying it on the back for long periods of time, and improves slipping.
The advantage of not shaking and the sense of stability that prevents your body from tiring make it a perfect backpack. The simple structure also makes it convenient to have a separate room for storing gear that gets snowy, such as shovels and probes, including climbing skins, and a room for storing belongings that you don't want snow to get into. There is a dedicated pocket for storing the equipment you need for the backcountry, and the roll-type access port is useful for storing everything from helmets to crampons and when you have more luggage.
It has a very good design, with rear access and a long back. The slim structure of the backpack itself makes it ideal for skating, where the center of gravity is closer to the body. Even if you are forced to change from climbing skins to crampons, the backpack will hold and hold your skis securely, so you won't feel the added weight of carrying them on your back.
I also use SHUMARI 50 (50ℓ).
Reviewer
COLOR SPORT CLUB
Tomohiro Tonegawa
]
Hakuba VALLEY (Hakuba, Otari, Omachi) / Others: Tateyama, Senjojiki, Myoko, Mt.
Since the early 1990s, he has turned his attention to the off-piste and opened up the mountain ski scene in the midwinter. Pioneer work continues even after achieving field development throughout Hakuba, which is synonymous. [Qualifications]
・JMGA Mountain Guide Stage Ⅱ
・JMGA Ski Guide Stage Ⅱ
・JAN Avalanche Worker Level 2
The North Face ｜CHUGACH45
Despite having a capacity of 45 liters, it is lightweight at approximately 2 kg. The inside of the main unit can be accessed from two places: the top and the back panel. A lightweight and highly durable material is used for the main fabric, and the front panel and hip harness are made of abrasion-resistant material, creating a perfect balance between lightness and strength. It is multi-functional and extremely easy to use, and its biggest 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) x W29.5 x D16cm, L: H68 (83) x W30 x D16cm
Color: TNF White (black, cave blue, 3 colors)
¥41,800
Click here for the official website
"It's comfortable to carry on your back and easy to take out gear." | Natures Shinya Nakagawa
Comfortable to carry, easy to take out avalanche gear, back access makes it easy to take out luggage even with skis and boards attached.
Reviewer
Natures
Shinya Nakagawa
[Main guide area] Northern Hokkaido area near Asahikawa
[Profile]
Started snowboarding at the age of 14 and obtained the official professional qualification from the JSBA (Japan Snowboard Association) in 2000.
Fascinated by the world of the backcountry, he shifted his focus to video and photography. He felt the joy and charm of mountains and nature, and wanted to provide safe and enjoyable mountain trips, so he decided to work as a guide. He started ``Natures'' in 2011 after working as a nature conservation monitor for Mt. Asahidake. [Qualifications held]
・JMGA Climbing Guide Stage II
・JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
