"I'm going to make my debut in the backcountry this season!" "I want to buy a new backpack soon." For such skiers and snowboarders, we would like to introduce an excellent backpack that BC professional guides confidently recommend to their guests (customers).
* For detailed information on the guide club, click the guide club name and go to the guide club introduction page on STEEP!
ARC'TERYX｜RUSH SK 32 BACKPACK
Roll top type can be expanded up to 32 to 40 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. For backcountry tours in the high season, the ``Rush SK 32'', which expands to 40L, has sufficient capacity.
Capacity: 32ℓ
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
“There is a sense of stability whether you are moving or gliding.” | Daichi TERUI Daichi Terui
It's light, the pack has a good shape, and it doesn't affect the center of gravity, so it's easy to slip. It's functional and easy to use, so it's easy to take action. I think the sense of stability both when skiing and when taking action will lead to a sense of security for beginner BC climbers who have little experience in pristine snowy mountains.
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
I also love "ARC'TERYX｜RUSH SK 32 BACKPACK"
"Lightweight, highly waterproof and durable!" | JUNRINA mountain service Jun Nagai
There are many things I would like to recommend to BC beginners. First, it's a backcountry bag, designed for balanced and comfortable carrying. It is also easy to use as it is simple to make, has a wide side zipper, and makes it easy to take out the contents. It is also lightweight, weather resistant, durable, and waterproof! You can choose the back length size short or regular according to the size of your body, and the removable helmet fixing system is also convenient. I personally use it, and there are many things I like about it when I use it in the mountains.
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
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
"There's no reason why you don't need a float bag just because you're a beginner." Kazuya Igarashi, Kagura Powder Station
It's lightweight, has a well-balanced pack, and has the features needed for BC.
The float system is reliable and extremely reliable. Just because you're a beginner doesn't mean you don't need a floatback; it's better to understand and understand its necessity from the beginning in order to manage it safely. How to use it is easy for anyone to understand. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced rider, it doesn't mean you won't die if you have a float bag. The movement to use floatbacks will lead to a better understanding of safety on snowy mountains, as well as an increase in awareness and enlightenment about the safety of BC and powder skiing as a whole.
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 held]
・JMGA Ski Guide His Stage I
・JMGA Climbing Guide Stage II
BLACK DIAMOND | Dawn Patrol 32
Equipped with a wealth of functions, the 32ℓ is suitable for one-day tours. The front avalanche tool pocket can store items such as a hydration system, soft flask, and small radio. The back panel can be fully opened with a zipper, allowing for easy loading and unloading of luggage. 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) cm
Weight: 1200g
Color: Storm blue (black, 2 colors)
¥31,130
Click here for the official website
“A design specific to the backcountry is good”｜KinTouN Backcountry Guide Kenichi Minegishi
The capacity is just right. Designed specifically for the backcountry. The waist belt pocket is large and very convenient to use.
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 as I ski on waves, which are the energy of nature, and I want to climb a mountain with my own feet and ski as I want.It's because of the risk that I felt freedom.'' [Qualifications]
・JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
Deuter｜FREESCAPE LITE 26
A technical pack that emphasizes functionality and portability in winter. Especially suitable for backcountry tours in Wandi. Not only can skis and boards be attached, but two ice axes can also be attached externally. It also has dedicated pockets for avalanche gear and goggles.
Capacity: 26ℓ
Size (height x width x depth): 64 / 30 / 22cm
Weight: 1180g
Color: Marine x Ink
¥27,500
Click here for the official website
“Easy to walk and just the right amount of space” | Makoto Kuroda, Kuroda Mountain Guide Office
These days, small backpacks have an A-shaped frame, which is rare, so you can carry skis on your back. Therefore, it has the advantage of being stable and easy to walk in difficult situations where you have to carry skis on your back. Therefore, it is recommended for people who don't usually hike in the mountains, are not physically fit, or are petite and worried about being blown away by the wind. The capacity is just right, so pack your belongings to the extent that it will fit inside.
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
“Light and compact” | Rhythm Works Tatsuta Asahi
This is a model that I personally use on tours that involve short hikes and mostly riding. I like that it's compact and has a hipbelt that looks like a goggle strap, and a simple design that makes it easy to move around.It 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 ｜TARGHEE FT35
Detached top allows you to freely insert and remove the contents of the main pack, skis can be attached without removing the pack, zippers are easy to use even when wearing gloves, hipbelt webbing is completely removable, and each part is lightweight and removable. It is also possible to choose the parts you need and reduce the extra weight, which is great for a 1-day tour.
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) 76.2×28×25.4cm (M/D)
Color: Spark Navy (Ozone Black, 2 colors)
¥38,500
Click here for the official website
“About 35L is the perfect size for versatility, including day trips” | Infield Toyokazu Nakano
TARGHEE FT35 has the same basic performance as Targhee, and is an easy-to-use pack that fits shovels and probes very well for backcountry use. Generally, 35L is the perfect size for day trips and staying overnight at a mountain hut, making it a versatile size. Although it cannot be accessed from the back, it is easy to use for those who prefer a top-loading type. Of course, it's comfortable to carry and fits well, and the slim design means it won't get swayed by your luggage while you're skiing.
Reviewer
Infield
Toyokazu Nakano
[Main guide area] Myoko/Kukijo area, Hokushin/Others: Tateyama, Mt. Chokai, etc.
[Profile]
Started "Infield" in 2006 after 10 years of experience after moving to Myoko Kogen.
Currently, he works as a backcountry tour guide and telemark ski instructor in the winter, and as a mountain climbing/trekking guide and sea kayak guide in the summer. [Qualifications]
・JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
・JAN Avalanche Operator Level 2
Klättermusen ｜Ull Backpack 30L
A lightweight ski touring backpack designed for half-day or full-day missions. Ergonomically designed. The original 210 denier ripstop fabric is water resistant to 10,000mm. It has a simple structure that opens and closes with a drawcord, and a closure system that can be opened and closed with one hand, making it easy to load items from the top. Compression is also possible with a one-roll top. The loop webbing on the outside allows you to attach all kinds of equipment such as poles and ice axes.
Capacity: 30ℓ
Size (height x width x depth): 58 x 29 x 16cm
Weight: 843g
Color: Snow Burnt Russet (6 colors in total)
¥52,800
Click here for the official website
“We recommend it because it is lightweight and comfortable to carry.”｜CIRCLE GAME guide service Shohei Sasaki
It is a model with less capacity of Trud 44L. There is no rain lid, and since it is a roll top, it can be compressed according to the amount of luggage. Lightweight and comfortable to carry is recommended.
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｜Nirvana 30
Equipped with full access from the back, jacket carrying system, safety gear storage front pocket, hydration system compatible, removable padded hip belt, integrated helmet carrier, etc. Excellent fit. It also features the use of recycled materials. The attachment of the ski can be 2way of A frame diagonal.
Capacity: 30ℓ
Weight: 1,350g
Size (height x width x depth): 52.5 / 28 / 15.5cm
Color: sapphire-black (black, hot red-black, 3 colors in total)
¥30,800
Width approx. 28.0cm, height approx. 52.5cm, gusset approx. 15.5cm
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. This size (30L) is the easiest to use.
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.
Double ax device is possible due to the vertically long form. 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 things in and take them out even if you use the A-frame, making it very easy to use.
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
It's made specifically for the backcountry, so it's good that it's minimal and doesn't have anything unnecessary. The 30L capacity eliminates unnecessary equipment and is useful for simple and lightweight packing.
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: Black (Artisan Yellow, 2 colors in total)
¥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
“Models with an open back are especially recommended for beginners” | BLUECLIFF Michio Takimoto
Backpacks with an open back are easy to use for beginners. This Solden 32 is lightweight, yet has plenty of 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 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
Patagonia ｜Snowdrifter Pack 30L
A versatile pack designed for all-day backcountry use. With a dedicated avalanche gear compartment, you can easily access the contents through the back panel with your gear attached. Made with 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 in total)
¥23,100
Click here for the official website
Kazuya Furuse "The rear access is convenient, simple and easy to use"
The point of recommendation is that the back access is easy to use, simple and easy to use.
Reviewer
LOCUS GUIDE SERVICE
Kazuya Furuse
[Profile]
As a result of my pursuit of skiing, I changed my field from ski resorts to the backcountry, gaining experience as a skier and guide.
[Main guide area] Hakuba area
[Qualifications]
JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
JAN Avalanche Operator Level 2
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: Navy, Glass HoperSilver, Coke Red (all 4 colors)
¥25,300
Click here for the official website
“Even BC beginners can spend a comfortable day”｜COLOR SPORT CLUB Tomohiro Sagawa
SHUMARI 35's rigidity prevents the backpack from shaking, reducing the strain on the body from carrying it on the back for long periods of time, and preventing fatigue.
This sense of stability is a blessing for beginners who are unaccustomed to mountain activities. Also, the simple structure is easy to handle, and it's nice to have a separate room for gear that gets snowy, including skins, such as shovels and probes, and a room for 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 putting in and taking out helmets and other items.
It has a design that is good for beginners, such as rear access and a long back length. The thin structure of the backpack itself also makes it easy to slip because the center of gravity is closer to your body when you slide.
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
SALOMON｜MTN15・MTN30
MTN15
Developed based on Salomon's know-how in making backpacks that are great for trail running. It has a design that fits your body to follow your intense movements on the snowy mountains, a compact size that doesn't interfere with slipping, and a lightweight and comfortable feel. 15 liters is enough for half-day to one-day BC skiing. The full zip allows for easy access from the back, and the highly waterproof fabric makes it easy to use even in bad weather.
Capacity: 15ℓ
Weight: 701g
Size (back length): 50cm
Color: Black/White (Fiery Red/Fiery Red 2 colors)
¥18,700
Click here for the official website
MTN30
As it was developed based on Salomon's trail running pack, it offers great freedom of movement, stability, and comfort. Full zip for easy access from the back, highly waterproof fabric, and 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)
¥22,000
Click here for the official website
“15ℓ is for lift access powder and sidecountry, 30ℓ is for backcountry” | Coyote Ryuta Furuichi
Salomon's ``MTN30'' is used for backcountry use, and the downsized ``MTN15'' is used for lift access powder and sidecountry use.
The reason why I recommend these two points is... The overall weight is light.
・There is a pocket on the shoulder of the backpack, which is perfect for storing a wireless device.
-The waist belt also has a pocket and gear rack.
Convenient for storing small items such as sunscreen that you want to take out quickly. - The gear rack can be used to attach gear such as carabiners, slings, small knives, etc. that you want to quickly access.
・You can also enter from the back, so you can take out items such as water bottles, food, and winter clothes without getting them wet without having to take them out from above.
・The price is reasonable! !
Reviewer
Mountain Guide Coyote
Ryuta Furuichi
[Main guide area] Hokkaido (Niseko, Mt. Yotei, Kiroro, Mt. Daisetsu, Furano area)
[Profile]
Interested in the environment and food. Entered the company.
In addition, he founded his Mountain Guides Coyote to feel close to nature and practice low impact living. He loves telemark skiing down snowy mountains. [Qualifications]
・JMGA Ski Guide Stage II
・JAN Avalanche
The North Face ｜CHUGACH28
This model has sufficient capacity to handle everything from side country trips to easy one-day trips, and uses panel loading to easily follow your movements while riding with less blurring. The main fabric is made of lightweight and highly durable material. Equipped with an avalanche pocket on the front panel. The main compartment can be accessed through the wide-opening back panel. In addition, it is equipped with snowboard and ski carriers, helmet holders, etc., and is composed of 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) 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
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