What is the ``BC (backcountry) backpack'' recommended by the '24-25 Pro Shop?

There are important points to consider when it comes to backpacks used in the backcountry, such as being able to securely store safety gear and other essential items, and not interfering with climbing or skiing. Pro shop staff are able to compare and examine many products, try them out on the snow themselves, and accumulate feedback from users, so they have a strong ability to discern quality. So, we would like to ask you to tell us about the ``highly recommended backcountry backpacks'' from the new models for the 2024-25 season. If you like models that have been highly rated by connoisseurs, please use this as a reference!

INDEX

BCA STASH PRO 40 UL

Stash Pro 40-UL

Capacity: 40 liters
Features:
- Side stash pocket
- Dedicated shovel/probe compartment
- Roll top closure
- Side access zipper
- Internal support frame
- Compression straps with multiple attachment points
- A-frame & diagonal ski carry & Vertical snowboard carry
, hip belt pocket x 2
, BC Link radio & hydration compatible

Body size: M/L: 17-21" / 43.1 - 53.3 cm
Color: White (2 colors of Black)
¥46,200

◆Official website: https://elevateoutdoorcollective.com/

This is an ultra-lightweight type of backpack, which is rare for backcountry backpacks, and it uses a lightweight and highly durable material called X-PAC, and its weight is an amazing 1,166g! The fabric is flimsy (lol), but the fit from the back to the shoulder harness and waist harness is excellent, so it feels stable even when carrying a certain amount of weight. In addition to BC, it is recommended for those looking for a lightweight alpine backpack for ice climbing, year-round alpine climbing, and regular vertical mountain climbing.

Reviewer
Ishii Sports Kanda Main Building
Staff Makoto Shimoyama


BCA|STASH 30

STASH 30

Capacity: 30ℓ
Weight: 1,490g
Size: 18-21 inches / 45.7 - 53.3 cm
Color: Tan, Black, Green (all 3 colors)
\ 30,800

◆Official website: https://elevateoutdoorcollective.com/

This is a backpack designed for backcountry use, and you can go for a day in the backcountry with just this one. The fact that the back opens completely is convenient. Since it has a two-layer structure, it can store wet items and non-wet items separately. The helmet can be held securely, and the 30 liter size feels just right.

Reviewer
TRUNKBASE
Owner / Mikiya Tanno


D_b_ |Snow Pro Backpack 32L

Snow Pro Backpack 32L

Capacity: 32ℓ
Weight: 1.64㎏
Size: 32 x 60 x 28cm (width x height x depth)
Color: Black Out, Midnight Teal (2 colors in total)
\ 41,800

◆Official website: https://www.lpdb.uplnd.com/

The silhouette when carried on your back is so clean that you can't believe it's a BC backpack. The avalanche pocket is located at the front and has a center zipper, making it convenient to store stickers. Attention has been paid to the small details, such as the three pockets on the back and a removable goggle pouch.

Reviewer
UPLND
Staff/Shunsuke Murai


Haglöfs|Sensate Pro 32

Sensate Pro 32

Capacity: 32ℓ
Size: S/M, M/L
Weight: 1,277g
Color: True Black, Habanero/Blaze Orange
¥27,500

◆Official website: https://haglofs.jp/

A new model backpack with a good fit and balance. Backside access is possible for smooth work. Skis, snowboards, and snowshoes are all available. Access from the bottom side allows you to store stickers and crampons in a separate room.

Functional details include a zip pocket on the left side of the waist harness (personally, I wanted it on both sides...If you don't use the gear loop on the right side, you can attach a substitute storage bag), a helmet net, an ice ax, There are toggles and belts that secure poles, etc.

Of course, the probe and shovel fit well, and the structure makes it easy to take them in and out. I think it's an ideal backpack that has almost everything you need, yet is simple and efficient.

Reviewer
Narrows
Staff/Takaro Ban

Freeride backpack optimized for freedom of movement. Designed to hold the gear you need and improve carrying comfort. Made to fit well and maintain optimal weight distribution. Includes customizable side compression straps.

The main compartment has a zippered and accessible back panel. The front compartment has an avalanche pocket. Fleece-lined goggle compartment. Retractable helmet net. It has plenty of features, including a crampon pocket that can be accessed from the side.

Reviewer
UPLND Sapporo
Staff/Kenta Watanabe


NORRØNA|lofoten 30L Pack

lofoten 30L Pack

Capacity: 30ℓ
Weight: 1,412g
Color: Arednalin (Indigo Night Blue, 2 colors)
¥39,600

◆Official website: https://www.full-marks.com/norrona

It's a bag that's neither too big nor too small and easy to handle, making it a great choice as your first backpack. It's really comfortable to carry on your back. One of the key points is that there is space at the bottom of the backpack to store stickers. There are two colors available for the '24-25 season: navy and orange. Orange is a new color, but it's a slightly dull orange and I think it's surprisingly easy to match with any outfit. This backpack is frequently used by our staff.

Reviewer
SKI SHOP VAIL
Staff / Yuta Shiraishi In charge of wear and accessories

This backpack is packed with features and is designed for use in the backcountry. This is an unquestionably recommended product that is packed with design, functionality, and comfort.

Reviewer
Xraeb sports
Staff / Taketo Yamada


OSPREY|Soelden32

Soelden32

Capacity: 32ℓ
Weight: 1,150g
Size: 54 x 31 x 28cm (length x width x depth)
Color: Artisan yellow, black (2 colors in total)
¥26,400

◆Official website: https://www.lostarrow.co.jp/osprey/

This is a backcountry backpack with enough capacity to accommodate short-term cabin trips. When attaching skis to your backpack, you can attach them in two ways: A-frame and diagonal, so there is no hassle. The hipbelt is adjustable, so you can adjust it to suit your body. The main compartment and avalanche pocket are separate, so you can quickly access it in case of an emergency.

Reviewer
Mt.Peaks
Staff/Hoshiwajin


PLUS ONE WORKS|MAKIRI 25 EVO

MAKIRI 25 EVO

Capacity: 25ℓ
Weight: 1,380g
Back length: 45cm
Color: Coyote (Black, 2 colors)
¥33,000

◆Official website: https://www.full-marks.com/plusoneworks

The 3DS shoulder strap and 3DET frame are designed to suit the Japanese body type, reducing the weight of luggage and hindrance to movement when sliding. The waist harness and compression belt have a fit that hugs the pelvis, making it comfortable to carry essential items such as avalanche gear on your back with less strain on your body.

The fabric is made from ECOPAK, a 100% recycled polyester material, making it lightweight and abrasion resistant. Although it has a capacity of 25L, it has a storage capacity that exceeds that capacity, and has a wide range of accessories such as helmet holders and mobile pouches (sold separately), and can be customized according to the user's preferences.

Reviewer
FULLMARKS Sapporo Store
Staff/Daisuke Ito


PLUS ONE WORKS|SHUMARI 35 EVO

SHUMARI 35 EVO

Capacity: 35ℓ
Weight: 1,700g
Back length: 50cm
Color: Black (Coyote 2 colors)
¥36,300

◆Official website: https://www.full-marks.com/plusoneworks

It has been significantly updated since the previous SHUMARI, and its usability has been further improved.
The padding on the back and the shoulder straps suit the physique of Japanese people, so we recommend you try carrying some weight on your back!

Reviewer
FULLMARKS Tomamu Store
Staff/Ikki Hoshi


Teton Brose |AMAUTI

Capacity: 25ℓ
Weight: 1,040g
Color: BLACK (DESERT, BLACK×STING 3 colors in total)
¥39,600

◆Official website: https://www.teton-bros.com/

AMAUTI seems to refer to the traditional large cloth used by Inuit women to carry their babies on their backs. When she wears this backpack on her back, it has a fit that feels like it sticks to her back when the shoulder belt and waist belt are tightened. The capacity is a little small at 25L, so it may not have enough capacity for full-scale BC equipment, but it is recommended for skiing on lift access and when carrying the minimum necessary equipment.

Reviewer Shugakuso
Hokudai Store
Staff / Climbing and Ski Manager - Mr. Minoru Kojiguchi

This is a new Teton Bros backpack developed in collaboration with a group of Swiss designers. The outer shell is made from a single piece of ripstop nylon fabric, and the shoulder straps and waist straps extend from the outer shell, providing a comfortable fit and carrying comfort.

By creating a space between the outer shell and the main air chamber, items such as climbing skins and insulation can be stored and ready for immediate use. This is a limited edition item with a limited quantity and a patch.

Reviewer
Mt.Peaks
Staff/Hoshiwajin


THE NORTH FACE | Chugach 28


Chugach 28

Capacity: 28ℓ
Weight: 1,480g
Size: one size
Color: Cave Blue (1 color)
¥31,350

◆Official website: https://www.goldwin.co.jp/tnf/

A compact and easy-to-use backpack. A convenient backpack that makes it easy to store and take out avalanche gear and other items, and also allows you to carry skis on your back. Especially recommended for those who are unsure.

Reviewer
Xraeb sports
Staff / Taketo Yamada


THE NORTH FACE | Chugach 35

Chugach 35

Capacity: WM/32ℓ, M/34ℓ/38ℓ
Weight: WM/ approx. 1,555g, M/ approx. 1,625g, L/ approx. 1,705g
Size: WM, M, L
Color: Black (moss green, muted pine, 3 colors) )
¥36,300

◆Official website: https://www.goldwin.co.jp/tnf/

This backpack is recommended for entry-level users and users who want to actively use it in the freeride scene. The wide back access opening makes it easy to use even for users who are not used to packing. Also, one of the points to note is the thinness of the backpack. This allows you to minimize centrifugal force and resistance that occur when riding. It will become a strong ally for your freeriding.

Reviewer
Ishii Sports Yodobashi Kofu
Staff / Yuki Amari


INDEX