Backcountry guides can provide guests with a safe and enjoyable experience in the snow, even under rough natural conditions. It is easy to imagine how important ``quick movements without waste'' and ``accurate work with hands and fingers'' are for them. It goes without saying that gloves play an important role in ensuring that your hands function properly even in the cold. Let's hear about the types of gloves that professional guides trust and love, as well as their tips on how to use them on the mountain.
*All prices listed include tax.
“Style of wearing gloves over innerwear” ｜TEREMARK&MOUNTAIN GUIDE IDEHA Takahiro Ishizawa
ARC'TERYX | Saber Gloves
Equipped with a GORE-TEX insert, it provides superior breathability and waterproofness for harsh backcountry weather. The surface material uses Fortius 1.0 soft shell, which has excellent abrasion resistance and elasticity, to achieve abrasion resistance and elasticity. The insulation uses two types of soft Primaloft, and the movement of your fingertips is smooth. Lightweight and thin cuff design makes layering easy.
Color: Black (Yukon 2 colors)
Size: XS, S, M, L
¥33,000
ARC'TERYX｜Low gloves
The material is Torrent™ 190, which has excellent heat retention and moisture permeability, so if you wear it under shell gloves, it will keep you warm and wick away stuffiness. It is thin and 3D cut to fit perfectly in your hand, making it easy to move your fingers. Its appeal is that it is highly versatile and can be used alone during the spring season.
Color: Black (Tatsu, Box car, 3 colors)
Size: XS, S, M, L
¥6,820
◆ Official HP / https://arcteryx.jp/
[Favorite model and reason]
This is a style where you put on an inner layer and wear gloves. ARC'TERYX's ``Saber Gloves'' are the gloves that fit me best after using various manufacturers and types over the years. I've been using this glove ever since, and it's really easy to use. The length to the wrist is just right for me, as I often put on and take off my gloves, the ease of care for the gloves, and the quality and durability of the leather are all perfect. The more you use it, the more the leather becomes familiar and becomes black and shiny.
During tours, I often take off my gloves for small tasks such as checking my cell phone, but the theory is to wear inner gloves instead of bare hands. ``Low Gloves'' are thin but have high heat retention ability, and you can use your phone screen while wearing innerwear, making them a great match for Saber Gloves. I've been using this combination for about 5 seasons, and it's the best for me.
[Tips on how to use gloves]
Bring one spare inner layer and one pair of gloves (same type)
Reviewer
IDEHA ｜Takahiro Ishizawa
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 share this excitement with you as 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 for safe mountain climbing.
"Use ARC'TERYX differently depending on behavior and temperature" | TERUI DAICHI Daichi Terui
ARC'TERYX | Fission SV Gloves
A model that boasts the highest level of warmth in ARC'TERYX. A 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 ultimate warmth. The lining uses Octa® Loft, which has excellent breathability, and maintains optimal humidity inside the glove. Made of double layered high quality goat leather for increased durability. Furthermore, it is easy to put on and take off.
Color: Black/Tatsu (2 colors in total)
Size: S, M, L
¥34,100
ARC'TERYX | Venta AR Glove
The brushed lining is thick and warm, and the outer material is highly waterproof and repels snow and light rain. Adopts patterning that allows delicate movements of the fingertips, and the palm and fingertips are reinforced with high-quality goat leather for grip and durability.
Color: Black (1 color)
Size: S, M, L, XL
¥18,700
ARC'TERYX | Venta Gloves
Gloves that use Gore-Tex Infinium™, which has excellent wind resistance, water resistance, and moisture permeability. It is also characterized by being lightweight with a soft shell garment that is resistant to wind and rain. The brushed lining is thick and warm, and the outerwear is fine in snow and light rain. It is made to increase the grip and absorb moisture easily, so you can operate your smartphone or touch screen while wearing it.
Color: Tatsu (Boxcar, Black, 3 colors)
Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
¥12,100
◆ Official HP / https://arcteryx.jp/
[My favorite model and why]
I like the ARC'TERYX Venta AR when I'm hiking or when it's not too cold. It has the best balance of heat retention and grip. It is very easy to operate and I also use it for ice climbing. When it's cold, I use the ARC'TERYX Fission SV 5 finger.
[Tips for how to use gloves]
Use thin gloves when hiking, medium thickness when skiing, and thick gloves depending on the temperature you feel. In addition, depending on the conditions, we use extra-thick ones depending on the mountain area and hiking period during the harsh winter, and temless ones for digging caves in the snow.
Reviewer
Daichi Terui
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. Since his early 20s, he has experienced heli-ski guide training in Northern Europe, mountain climbing in the European Alps, and ski touring.
“I always have multiple 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 side is made of soft and durable goat leather, and the back side is made of ripstop polyester. A highly versatile model that can be used in the backcountry in general.
Color: Cork/Brown (2 colors in total)
Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
¥14,850
Black Diamond | Impulse
Made of supple and durable goat leather, Gore-Tex® and Primaloft® Gold Cloth core provide excellent heat retention. Built-in EVA pads on the back of the hand and thumb to improve protection performance. The neoprene cuff keeps your wrist warm and provides a great fit. High-end freeride glove with high performance. The design is also a fan favorite.
Color: Beeswax/Walnut (Black/Black, 2 colors)
Size: S, M, L, XL
¥25,300
Black Diamond｜Terminator gloves
BD.dry, a waterproof and breathable material, is inserted into the supple stretch shell to ensure waterproofness. Built-in Thinsulate® and fleece lining to provide sufficient heat retention. The fingertips have a three-dimensional design that makes them easy to move. From the 2024-25 season, environmentally friendly PFC-free water repellent treatment has been adopted.
Color: Black (1 color)
Size: S, M, L, XL
¥14,850
◆Official HP ／ https://www.lostarrow.co.jp/store/c/c10/
[Favorite model and reason]
Before Black Diamond, I used Spark as my main model. Mainly used when skiing when the temperature is low. I like these basic gloves, which have a good balance between the flexibility of the leather and the warmth that makes it easy to grip the pole. I want to put my gloves inside the wrist hem of my jacket, so I choose a model that has a neat area around the wrists. Currently, we are developing ``Mission'' and ``Impulse'' with similar models.
I used to use Black Diamond's Arc when climbing in cold weather and on spring tours, but for the '24-25 season I will be using the equivalent Terminator gloves. This is a model with a good fit and high operability, making it the most user-friendly glove that is used frequently. It is also waterproof enough to withstand rain.
[How to use gloves]
I always make sure to have multiple models of gloves with different thicknesses and uses. We bring different combinations depending on the season and the nature of the tour, such as models for cold protection, models with high operability, and models with high waterproofness. Personally, I don't like wearing layers of inner gloves.
Reviewer
Infield ｜ Toyokazu NAKANO
After 10 years of experience after moving to Myoko Kogen, he started "Infield" in 2006. 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.
Separate gloves for skiing and hiking｜Spur Akita Mountain Guide Service Mariko Sato
HESTRA ｜Army Leather Wool Terry
A 5-finger model made entirely of leather with a removable wool liner. The palm side is made of goat leather, which is highly durable and breathable. From the instep to the outside of the fingers, supple and soft cowhide leather is used to enhance comfort and operability. The warm, brushed wool liner on the inside of the instep maintains warmth even when it contains some moisture.
Color: Natural Yellow (Grey, Cork, Forest 4 colors in total)
Size: 6~10 Size guide
¥22,000
HESTRA｜Ergo Grip Active Wool
Wool liner specification of the popular "Ergo Grip Active". Based on GORE WINDSTOPER, which has excellent wind resistance and waterproofness, the palm side is made of supple goat leather. The ergo grip is 3D cut and sewn to fit the natural curvature of the hand, making it easy and convenient to make minute movements of the fingers.
Color: Orange/Off White (Black, Navy, Red, Dark Forest/Black, 5 colors in total)
Size: 6~10 Size guide
¥17,600
◆Official website/ Hestra Gloves Japan (full-marks.com)
McKinley | Inner gloves
Inner gloves are a staple in outdoor fields. It's popular because it's just the right thickness, warm, and has a great fit.
Ceramic processing has excellent anti-static effects, and antibacterial and deodorizing effects prevent odors. Durable and resistant to pilling. Uses newly developed multifilament yarn (Asahi Kasei Leona (R) 66) for excellent heat retention and quick drying properties. The special double layer construction provides a perfect fit.
Color: Burgundy (7 colors in total)
Size: Free
¥770
[Favorite model and reason]
"Army Leather Wool Terry" for skiing, "Ergo Grip Active Wool" for hiking.My hands get sweaty both when skiing and hiking, so inner gloves are essential, and they are thin and fit well. I love McKinley's inner gloves.
[Tips on how to use gloves]
I use separate gloves for skiing and hiking. I also use inner gloves. For gloves, I use five fingers, especially when touring, considering ease of use. (Although I sometimes use lobsters when I'm on the slopes or skiing.)
Reviewer
Spur Akita Mountain Guide Service | Mariko Sato
I competed in alpine competitions until high school, and then moved on to basic skiing. Has participated in the All Japan Ski Technical Championship. For some reason, I became fascinated with mountain skiing, and with the aim of becoming a guide, I studied at the International Natural Environment Outdoor College (i-nac) and became a professional guide.
“I love the HESTRA model because it retains heat well and allows me to do detailed work with five fingers.” Kazuya Igarashi, Kagura Powder Station
HESTRA｜Heli Ski GTX
*This model was discontinued last season. Regular Heli Skis that are not GORE-TEX are still in stock today.
30570 Heli Ski | FULLMARKS (full-marks.com)
4-way stretch nylon with a built-in GORE-TEX membrane on goat goat army leather that is supple, strong, and has high grip. With a 2-layer lining, it can be used with the liner removed during warm weather.
Color: Black
Size: 6~10 Size guide
¥30,800 (last year's price)
HESTRA｜Windshield Liner
A liner made of wind-resistant windshield material. The palm side is made of polyester fleece, and the sidewalls are made of breathable mesh. The palm and fingertips have grip prints, and the thumb and index finger are touchscreen compatible. Can be used as a liner for replaceable liner gloves.
Material: 91% Polyester/ 9% Tricot,Fleece Cuff,Grip Print,Touch Point(forefinger and thumb)
Color: Black (Navy 2 colors)
Size: 6~10 Size guide
¥7,700
◆Official website/ Hestra Gloves Japan (full-marks.com)
[Favorite models and reasons]
HESTRA's HELI ski GTX and Windshield Liner.
It has good heat retention and allows you to do detailed work with five fingers. [How to use gloves]
Carry overmitts, spring gloves for hiking, and extra gloves. The inner layer is made of wool, and I always carry Gore-Tex overmittens.
Reviewer
Kagura Powder Station | Kazuya Igarashi
After becoming the Mogul All Japan Champion, he participated in W-CAP and served as the national team coach, training Satoya, Miura, Tsukuda, Hara, etc. Engaged to Yuichiro Miura and active in snow dolphin. Climbed Everest with Mr. Miura in 2008. Currently supporting Kagura Powder Station as a BC ski/climbing guide.
“Comfortable with breathable material, and 5-finger gear grip” | COLOR SPORT CLUB Tomohiro Sagawa
HESTRA｜Omni GTX Full Leather
A Japan-only model that was created at the request of guides and riders who ski in Japan's snowy mountains. The palm side is made of goat leather with excellent durability and strength, and the instep and sides are made of flexible cowhide leather. The 5-finger type with outseam finish reduces unnecessary pressure on the fingertips and is attractive for its high operability. A GORE-TEX membrane that exhibits high waterproof and moisture permeability is inserted on the entire inside to reliably handle wetness from snow.
ColorGrey/Brown (Black,Cork/Cork,Navy/Black,Cork 4 colors in total)
Size: 5~10 Size guide
¥23,100
◆Official website/ Hestra Gloves Japan (full-marks.com)
[Favorite model and reason]
I use HESTRA's Omni GTX Full Leather. Uses a short cuff type that does not hinder wrist movement. Uses a five-finger type that can also be used for detailed work. I prefer the type that combines leather with excellent durability, water resistance, and permeability, and moisture permeability.
[Tips on how to use gloves]
Always have thin innerwear on hand. Also, to prevent the cold, pair it with overgloves that have enhanced Gore-Tex functionality.
Reviewer
COLOR SPORT CLUB | Tomohiro Tonegawa
A trailblazer who built the backcountry scene that continues to this day. Since the early 1990s, he has turned his attention to off-piste areas and pioneered the mountain ski scene in the harsh winter months. Even after achieving field development throughout Hakuba, which has become synonymous with the company, pioneer work continues.
"I've always liked these" | KinTouN Backcountry Guide Kenichi Minegishi
HESTRA | Wakayama・Ergo Grip Active Wool・Army Leather Wool Terry
Wakayama
Despite being a technical riding glove, it feels surprisingly soft to wear. The removable liner is made from precisely tanned cowhide leather and brushed wool that retains heat. The cuff on the palm side is made of neoprene for a better fit on the wrist, and has a nylon drawcord that makes it easy to put on and take off, and it can be hung from the wrist.
Color: Forest/Cork
Size: 6~10 Size guide
¥20,900
Ergo Grip Active Wool
Despite being a technical riding glove, it feels surprisingly soft to wear. The removable liner is made from precisely tanned cowhide leather and brushed wool that retains heat. The cuff on the palm side is made of neoprene for a better fit on the wrist, and has a nylon drawcord that makes it easy to put on and take off, and it can be hung from the wrist.
Color: Forest/Cork (5 colors in total)
Size: 6~10 Size guide
¥17,600
Army Leather Wool Terry
The all-leather five-finger style "Army Leather Wool Terry" with a built-in removable wool liner has been updated with a new design. The palm side is made of goat leather, which is highly durable and breathable. From the instep to the outside of the fingers, soft and supple cowhide leather is used to enhance comfort and operability. The brushed wool liner maintains heat retention and warmth even when it contains some moisture. I also like that it can be removed and washed.
Color: Gray
Size: 6~10 Size guide
¥22,000
◆Official website/ Hestra Gloves Japan (full-marks.com)
[My favorite models and why]
I have always liked these and have used them. Army leather can be kept clean because the wool liner is easy to put your hand in and take out even when it's wet, and it can be removed and washed.
[How to use gloves]
I always keep extra gloves in my backpack. In early spring, I usually wear thin gloves, but I also carry extra gloves for the harsh winter months.
reviewer
KinTouN Backcountry Guide (KinTouN) | Kenichi Minegishi
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.
“It’s made in Japan, so it fits easily in the hands of Japanese people”｜WARP Arima Arata
HIMARAK｜OAKⅡ
5 finger type of cowhide. Suitable for hiking, work, and seasons after midwinter. Compatible with 0~-9°.
Color: Tan (Turquoise blue, Red, 3 colors)
Size: S-LL
￥14,850
◆Official website/ https://himarak.co.jp/
[Favorite model and reason]
I use the HIMARAK leather glove, the 3-finger model, during the mid-winter season, and the 5-finger OAK II when hiking in the mid-winter season and when skiing in the spring. Spring hike gloves are currently under development. These leather gloves are made in Japan and have a good size, and because they are made in Japan, they fit comfortably in the hands of Japanese people.
[Tips on how to use gloves]
I basically use the innerless type, and I always keep a spare in my backpack. We also have overmitts on hand during the harsh winter months.
reviewer
WARP ｜ Arima New Arata Arima
In the 2002-03 season, he and his friends founded WARP, the first guide club in the water area. Active mainly in Tanigawa, Takeru, and Kagura areas. As a freeriding-based ski guide club, we continue to focus on developing the local area without focusing on peak hunting.
“All leather has good durability” | Makoto Kuroda, Kuroda Mountain Guide Office
MILLET｜ Leather sherpa gloves
Made of high quality goat leather, it is soft and easy to move in your hands even in cold environments. The inside is lined with sherpa fleece for excellent heat retention and breathability, making it comfortable even for long periods of use.
Color：HONEY MUSTARD | N8779
Size：XS,S,M,L
￥19,800
[Favorite model and reason]
Because it is made of all leather and is durable. I like that the length of my wrist is just right and it feels just right.
[Tips on how to use gloves]
I carry two pairs of gloves of different thickness, and I also always have a pair of Gore-Tex over mittens.
Reviewer
Kuroda Mountain Guide Office | Makoto Kuroda
With a small group of private guides, we will support you on a mountain trip full of originality that suits each level. We provide services that value not only skiing but also the spirit of travel.
“Gloves made from Hokkaido sika deer are very supple!” | Mountain Guide Coyote Ryuta Furuichi
Niseko Glove | “Snow globe” semi-custom made model
Mr. Furuichi's custom work is semi-custom-made (made to order), with the outer gloves made from deer leather and the liner gloves made from synthetic fibers specified to his own specifications.
With Niseko Glove, you can specify color, size, liner, etc. in detail from many options. There are about 7 different leather colors available, and you can basically order by combining 1 or 2 colors. The photo shows the [5 fingers/short cuff] type. Other options include ``mittens'' and ``3 fingers'', and cuffs available in ``short'' and ``long''.
Size: M-S1 (Currently available in 42 types)
Outer gloves and liner gloves set in the low 20,000 yen to low 30,000 yen range
◆Official website/ https://niseko-glove.amebaownd.com
[Favorite model and reason]
Gloves made from sika deer are very flexible and easy to grip. Moreover, it is extremely durable! Niseko Glove allows semi-custom orders, so this one was made to order ``with an earthy color base and a slightly playful feel.'' Mr. Kamata, the designer and owner, came up with the color combination for the leather, saying, ``While we kept the main colors green and brown, we played around with making only the inside edges of the fingers soft (natural).''
[Tips on how to use gloves]
Always keep extra gloves in your backpack. Wear inner gloves and use leather gloves on top. I use five fingers. In spring, use thin leather gloves.
Reviewer Mountain
Guide Coyote | Ryuta Furuichi
Interested in the environment and food, after graduating from Meiji University's Faculty of Agriculture, he joined a company in Hokkaido in order to live in the majestic island of Hokkaido. In order to feel closer to nature and practice a lifestyle that does not impact the environment, he founded Mountain Guide Coyote. I love skiing down snowy mountains on telemark skis.
"Durable, soft and warm. Perfect for my fingers that get cold easily." | Telemark School & Ski Guide Izumiya AK.T Kenji Akutsu
SCOTT | Explorer Plus
It is easy to move, has excellent operability, is durable and warm. The outer shell is made of 90% goat leather, 90% nylon, and GORE-TEX wind stopper material, which is highly durable and breathable to wick away sweat. The batting contains prima soft, and it has excellent heat retention. It's also windproof, so you can stay comfortable all day long.
Color: Black / Burnt Orange (2 colors)
Size: S, M, L, LL
¥18,480
◆Official website/ https://www.caravan-web.com/brand_scott-wintersport/
[Favorite model and reason]
Leather is durable, yet soft and warm. It retains heat well, so it's perfect for me because my fingertips get cold easily. In addition, the index finger and thumb are reinforced, so even when fully utilized in lessons and guides, it is difficult to get holes in them, which is useful.
[Tips on how to use gloves]
Be sure to bring winter rubber gloves (temless) for secondary or snow digging work.
Reviewer
Telemark School & Ski Guide Izumiya AK.T | Kenji Akutsu
Currently in Minamiaizu, he runs Nango Tomato Farm in the summer and runs Telemark School & Ski Guide Izumiya AK.T in the winter.
“Gloves that are easy to use and are used most often during the season” | JUNRINA mountain service Atsushi Nagai
Swany Gloves｜SX-206 Spring Gloves
A combination of soft goat leather and GORE INFINIUM, which is lightweight, windproof and breathable. The unique draping Pre Curve cut maintains the natural shape of your hands, creating a fit that feels like your bare hands.
Color: BK/MOL (BK/SGL, BK/SLB, BK total 4 colors)
Size: Men's XS,S,M,L｜Ladies XS,S,M
¥14,300
◆ Official HP / https://www.swanyglove.jp/
[Favorite model and reason]
Gloves that are used most often during the season. Although the model name is Spring, the back of the hand is made of soft shell that keeps you warm and wicks away sweat. The stock also has a good grip, making it easy to remove stickers, write notes, and operate beacons.
[Tips for how to use gloves]
2 pairs of cold protection gloves and regular gloves (both have 5 fingers) + 1 pair of overgloves (shell only)
Reviewer
JUNRINA mountain service ｜ Jun Nagai
After quitting his job and working at Tateyama Raichoso, he underwent guide training and started activities as JUNRINA mountain service in 2010. Experienced in 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.
“Impressions for skaters who are sensitive to cold and don’t like inner gloves”｜CIRCLE GAME guide service Shohei Sasaki
Swany Gloves｜SX-202 classic combi glove
The combination of leather and fabric makes it lightweight and has excellent heat retention.
The palm side is made of highly durable cowhide, so it is resistant to friction and wear and can be used for a long time. Soft, water-repellent goat leather and fabric are used on the instep side, and cowhide is used on the palm side. ・Uses GORE-TEX insert with excellent water resistance and moisture permeability.
Cold Level -15~-5℃:
Color: MOL/BK (BK, BK/AV, BK/SGL, GRY/BK, WH/BK 6 colors in total)
Size: Men's XS, S, M, L｜Ladies XS, S,M
¥18,700
◆ Official HP / https://www.swanyglove.jp/
This is an impression aimed at skaters who are sensitive to cold and don't like wearing inner gloves. The classic combi glove has a great balance of heat retention and operability. Because of my job as a guide, I am conscious of being able to perform all tasks in the backcountry efficiently and quickly.
Reviewer
CIRCLE GAME guide service | Shohei Sasaki
Born in Nanae Town, Hokkaido, and based in Sapporo, he works as a backcountry ski guide in the winter and guides a wide range of Hokkaido's nature in the summer. I like to combine climbing and skiing.
“It’s safe even when it gets wet, and it’s warm because it has three fingers.”｜Masaaki Sato
Swany Gloves｜SX-113 Valcan
Made entirely of soft goat leather with a water-repellent finish. The unique cut that hugs your hand provides a good fit and allows you to experience ease of use.
Cold Level -15~-5℃:
Color: BEG/SGL (BK, WH, SGL, NV/STG, SUM/LDT, MOL/CML, MT/BEG 8 colors in total)
Size: 7, 8, 9, 10 sizes Guide
Size: XS, S, M, L
￥20,900
◆ Official HP / https://www.swanyglove.jp/
[Favorite model and reason]
Made of GORE-TEX, the leather is soft and the stock has a good grip, so you can rest assured that it won't get wet, and the 3-fingered design makes it warm.
[Tips on how to use gloves]
For sliding (5 fingers or 3 fingers), for hiking (thin leather gloves for rope work), temless (for looking at snow layers and creating snow caves), overmittens, and nitrile. I'm going.
Reviewer
Masaaki Sato
Became familiar with skiing from an early age and gained experience in competitive and basic skiing, moved to Hakuba Village at the age of 20, and began to focus on backcountry skiing at the age of 24. After gaining experience at Port Snow Hakuba and Power Zone Hakuba, he became independent.