table of contents
- The third time could be considered a crucial moment, so what happened this time?
- First, outdoor stalls
- Outdoor Selection
- au/STAR LINK & HYPERSHELL
- First, NODATE to the indoor booth
- Haglöfs
- Yama to Keikokusha and Matsumoto City Central Library
- ZEROGRAM
- Once again outdoors
- Back indoors from GARUD
- 9kei
- AIFA/GOSSAMER GEAR・PARBAT etc.
- yozora, Oze and Hobonichi, Hobonichi
- 3355
- PRIRET
- TiNY by Pep cycles
- LA SPORTIVA
- SOTO
- HERITAGE
- Dyneema®︎
- MOUNTAIN GOURMET LAB.
- WIM WORKS
- KITZ MICROFILTER
- YAMATOMO.FUN
- In conclusion.
The third time could be considered a crucial moment, so what happened this time?
I have personally attended the Alps Outdoor Summit (hereafter referred to as Alps Summit) since the first one, and have been covering the second one officially as Gearjin. Now that the third one is finally here, I would like to share with you what it was like this time, based on Gearjin's own personal picks as always, and write a report on the 25th Alps Summit.
Click here to see the previous event!
The second part is here
First, outdoor stalls
We arrived at the site, just like last time!? The weather didn't look very good, so we decided to first look around the outdoor booths while we could still walk around.By the way, this time we visited on the first day of the two-day event, October 4th and 5th.
Outdoor Selection
Outdoor Selection is led by Outdoor Gear Maniacs, a familiar name among gear enthusiasts.
It had been raining on and off since the morning at the venue, so it goes without saying that the people at the outdoor booths had a hard time displaying their products, and when I went to check it out, it seemed like not all of the products were on display. The discount sales on the products they were selling were quite strong.
The box placed in front of this booth is even more impressive, with products inside at 50-80% off, making it like a treasure chest! Due to the weather, it wasn't always open, so some people may not have noticed. Those who managed to find it were super lucky!
Last time the stall was indoors, but this time they chose to go outdoors because they wanted to display the Six Moon Designs tent outside, according to Steve, the company's president, but it's much more convincing to see the tent actually set up outside.
Outdoor Selection https://outdoor-selection.com/
au/STAR LINK & HYPERSHELL
au/STAR LINK is currently being talked about a lot due to its convenience, and was featured in Geargin.
LINK is here
Rather than focusing on the design inside, the stamp rally was inspired by the idea that anywhere is connected as long as you can see the sky.
Visitors were given an original eco bag after collecting stamps from the two booths and answering a questionnaire. They also had a demo of Starlink, and although they said it depended on the position of the satellites at the time, it was incredibly fast!
What's more, the booth next door is amazing - HYPERSHELL, which is apparently represented by KDDI!
This next-generation powered suit is designed specifically for outdoor activities, and I can't help but think that the times have come this far. I tried it out myself, and it felt like the world of the manga "Kochikame" had come to life in a good way. In fact, when it was in full mode, it felt like my legs were moving on their own (lol).
The weight is around 2kg depending on the model, but the benefit of the assist power is far greater than the weight of the bike itself, so it's not a problem, and I can't stop laughing. And the battery life isn't a matter of time, but distance. It can last up to 17.5km, so it won't become a dead weight if you're hiking up to just under 9km one way. If you don't mind the weight, you can also bring a spare battery.
I can only marvel that such an option has emerged in the outdoor world.
au/STAR LINK https://www.au.com/brand/tsunagu/starlink/
HYPERSHELL https://jp.hypershell.tech/
First, NODATE to the indoor booth
Now let's move inside the main Yamabiko Dome.
After checking in, I headed straight for Nodate, which was right in front of me. I learned a lot from the previous talk show.
The finish is as beautiful as ever, and although it is not UL certified, it is lightweight, water-resistant, heat-resistant, antibacterial, and resistant to strong acids and alkalis, making it a lacquer with many advantages for outdoor use.
It is more suited to camping trips, but judging from the fact that it is sold in mountain shops all over the country, it is also perfectly fine to use on specific mountain trips, especially in places with few water sources where you are staying for more than two nights, as its natural antibacterial properties make it a great talisman to use as well.
NODATE https://nodate.jp/
Haglöfs
Haglofs, who was also a part of OGZ's Yamatomachi, has become a familiar presence in the city with its flagship store in Harajuku, Tokyo, and was also present at the second event.
From past OGZ and Yamatomachi
They exhibited and sold a selection of items based on the concept of Alps Summit's slogan, the spirit of craftsmanship. They also gave away brand logo stickers to those who followed their official Instagram account, though I forgot to get one myself (lol).
Haglöfs https://haglofs.jp/
There was also a talk session in the town at the foot of the mountain, inviting guests from Tsubame Sanso, Chogatake Hütte, and Jonen Hut to discuss mountain huts.
Yama to Keikokusha
Keikokusha have collaborated to operate a mobile library called the "Yamakatsu Library."
The sight of old issues of the magazine "Yama to Keikoku" lined up, as well as the numerous outdoor books published by Yama to Keikokusha, was impressive, especially considering the effort required to transport this amount of material to the site.
Matsumoto City Central Library has a bookshelf called the "Mountain Library" where you can read a variety of books about mountains, and the number of books here is truly a Matsumoto treasure. It is worth a visit for mountain lovers visiting Matsumoto, and the library is located near two national treasures: Matsumoto Castle and the former Kaichi School building.
Among them, this mountain and valley
It was first published in 1930, almost 100 years ago, and it feels like I've seen the true power of print media.
Yama-to -Keikokusha https://www.yamakei.co.jp/
Matsumoto City Central Libraryhttps ://www.lib.city.matsumoto.lg.jp/
ZEROGRAM
Zero Gram was an opportunity to see all the new gear that Geargin had already introduced.
From past exhibition reports
From Gear Review
The highly acclaimed Tyvek UL Mat JP is now available in a large size! It looks versatile and easy to use.
There was a wide selection of other clothing items on display, making for an impressive lineup. I heard there was also a talk session with the representative of Zero Gram on the second day, which I would have liked to see.
ZEROGRAM https://www.zerogram.co.jp/
Once again outdoors
The rain was still unsteady, coming and going, but it was fine around noon so I went out for some more work.
At the Jeep Experience Booth, there is a Pink Wrangler Campaign with a dedicated driver, and it seems that this campaign is being held in various places other than the Summit. For more details, please see the URL below.
Pink Wrangler Campaign https://www.jeep-japan.com/campaign/pink_wrangler_caravan.html
Mutsumi Connect introduces the MTM RiSE M-1S, an off-road electric kickboard.
It is foldable and relatively compact, but it weighs about 22kg, so it's not light, so it depends on how you view that.However, it seems like it would be useful for carrying it in a car and then moving on.
Mutsumi Connect https://mutsumico.com/
There are plenty of food and drink booths that are unique to mountain festivals, so choose this one from the many available.
The seared beef tataki was delicious.
There will also be a liquor sales booth for adults to enjoy.
It's full of interesting words, so if you like camping, it might be worth a try!
Farm & Cidery Kaneshigehttps ://www.kaneshige.jp/
Back indoors from GARUD
If you're a Metal Gear fan, you'll definitely want to stop by GARUD.
This alcohol stove trivet and windshield is simply beautiful.
This pot lifter is specifically designed for the Gard cooker. It can be used with other cookware if the shape is compatible, but if you are concerned about this, use it at your own risk.
Gard is exhibiting another incredible product!
This is a refill tank for screw-type gas products! It's not that it hasn't existed before, but what makes it stand out is its weight! It's incredibly light, and it's sure to cause quite a stir when it's officially released. However, even though it's super light, it won't be cheap to sell, so if you want one, start saving now.
GARUD https://shop.garud-outdoor.com/
9kei
9kei is a brand that has quite a history, having been founded in 2012.
They also had a stall here last time and had a wide selection of wooden products that are easy to use for hiking, camping, etc.
The burner side table, which has a gas tank on one leg, was particularly popular! A user who had already purchased it happened to be at the booth and was talking passionately about this gear, which was quite impressive.
There was also a trial sale of these stylish accessories.
AIFA/GOSSAMER GEAR・PARBAT etc.
The AIFA booth, famous for Gossamer Gear.
The booth, which features the name of founder Glen Van Peski and Gossamer products that can be said to be UL's pioneers, is definitely worth seeing!
Nowadays, the product lineup is so diverse that it is possible to make a company almost entirely out of Gossamer products.
There are also mugs/cookers, and with so many options available, you'll want to try out a variety of them, if you have the money.
PARBAT is notable for its Aluula® composite fabric, which has recently become more common in the industry. The translucent Aluula fabric is 30% lighter and 30% stronger than nylon fabric of a similar surface area. This is the CIRRUS-20L, which features a distinctive yellow line.
yozora, Oze and Hobonichi, Hobonichi
Yozora is the Hobonichi camping brand led by Shigesato Itoi.
The original tents, Kohaku and Kohaku Duo, developed in collaboration with Zain Arts, will be on display and for sale.
This tent features a window on the rear side that allows you to see the sky, and lying down and looking up at the sky is said to be a special feeling that you can't get in any other tent.
In addition, items from Oze and Hobonichi are on sale.
There was a special sale on yozora products, and there was also a campaign where you could receive a small yozora item by following us on Instagram on the day.
yozora https://www.1101.com/store/yozora_camp/
This is also a Pro Trek venue-limited lucky draw campaign that was held last time!
3355
I wasn't able to meet the owner last time.
This time I was able to meet him and ask him a lot of questions directly.
3355 is a local brand, with its current atelier in Matsumoto, Nagano Prefecture. Its focus seems to be on small items with a theme of storage cases that travel with nature. The vintage canvas cutlery case is lovely, and the direction of its tailoring reflects the meticulous attention to detail of a female artist. This writer feels that way.
The palm-sized gear pouch is also great, and I couldn't help but buy one because it was the perfect size.
I think there is something good about canvas that appeals to both boys and girls.
3355https://sunsungogo.myshopify.com/
PRIRET
This is also Plielet, who was also used in the Geargin Gunma Kiryu episode.
From past exploration stories
TiNY by Pep cycles
TiNY is a solo camping gear brand derived from the bicycle brand Pep cycles.
Although it is called camping gear, the lineup of items is also suitable for use in the mountains.
The Tiny Table series is particularly appealing, as it allows you to choose the tabletop material, whether square or round. The tabletop is made of aluminum or carbon fiber, and the legs are made of titanium, making it a must-have for any gear enthusiast.
Pep cycles https://pepcycles.com/
LA SPORTIVA
Under the motto "for your mountain," LA SPORTIVA is committed to the safety and comfort of climbers while always striving for innovative technology .
Special outlet sale of clothing at special prices
The store was packed with things to try on, including a corner where you could try on mountain shoes, including the Trango Alpine GTX shown in the top image
LA SPORTIVA https://www.sportivajapan.com/
SOTO
SOTO, whose innovative CB cans have been well-received, also had a review of their latest burner in Geargin.
From Gear Review
BLACK BRICK, an outdoor shop in Kichijoji, Tokyo, also had a booth there.
HERITAGE
Participating from the local area are HERITAGE and ESPACE®.
The Crossover Dome FL, a floorless, freestanding dome shelter scheduled for release in spring 2014, is a rather edgy item that stands out. FL stands for floorless. The Crossover series has always been edgy, but this one feels refreshingly new, and will appeal to those who are into that.
The Trail Shelter® 2 (2G) is an ultra-lightweight, simple shelter. The set weighs just 440g, including two pegs and a storage bag. However, it requires four trekking poles to set up, and as the name 2G suggests, it's designed for two people. However, with some ingenuity, it can be set up using tree branches or thin rope. As the name suggests, it's not as windproof or waterproof as a regular tent, so it's definitely a product for experts, but it's definitely intriguing.
The KAYA Crossover Dome features a mesh inner and double walls. It's a good option for those who are hesitant to use a regular Crossover Dome, a dome-shaped tent. It can be easily customized, so it can be used more like a regular double-wall tent. However, it's still a dome shelter, so you need to understand that before using it.
HERITAGE https://heritage.co.jp/index.htm
Dyneema®︎
As a materials brand, Dyneema® is committed to supporting all craftsmen.
Dyneema® exhibited fabric samples, product samples, and materials, and sold round bunches, repair tape, and double-sided tape.
Dyneema caps are appealing, but I wonder how much they would cost if sold as a product...
Dyneema shoes on display! It seems like anything can be made with Dyneema, and I can only imagine the possibilities. Other items on sale included Dyneema® "KASA" and outlet fabrics. While these are often a hot commodity at Off the Grid and other events, it was great to be able to take my time and carefully examine them here.
Dyneema® https://tsdy-fabric.com/
MOUNTAIN GOURMET LAB.
MOUNTAIN GOURMET LAB.'s motto is simply "We want to make it possible to eat even more delicious food in the mountains." There is probably no one in the mountain enthusiast community who doesn't know about them.
They are currently changing the packaging to aluminum bags, so some of the old packaging items will be on sale exclusively at the venue!
The venue offered tastings, so I had one, and needless to say, it was delicious!
MOUNTAIN GOURMET LAB. https://mgl.quest/
WIM WORKS
WIM WORKS is a brand that stands out with its vibrant and colorful designs. Their main products are roll-top stuff sacks and pouches made by DCF.
This is another item from the series that I've been grateful for. I saw it at the popular outdoor shop ITOMIZU in Kitaazumino, Nagano, and was amazed by its flashy colors.
From past exploration stories
The packaging looks just like a record jacket, so I feel like it would be a shame to open it, which is a kind of bad way of thinking (wry smile).
As you can see from the looks, the patterns and designs are very elaborate, so you're sure to find a favorite item here, and the brand will be promoting designs themed around living things.
WIM WORKS https://wimworks.jp/
KITZ MICROFILTER
For me, the KITZ Micro Filter is an unexpected hidden gem.
This bright red liquid passes through a filter and becomes completely clear, transparent water!
The Delios Connect 1 has a bacteria removal rate of 99.9999%, and what's most attractive about it is that it's made in Japan by a water purifier manufacturer based in Chino City, Nagano Prefecture!
Its water purification capacity is about 500 liters (about 2.5 times the amount of a typical household bathtub), which is sufficient for most needs. What's even more eye-catching is its price, which is 3,980 yen including tax, which is cheaper than typical overseas products and easy on the wallet. Made in Japan and reasonably priced, I think it's pretty good. What do you think?
KITZ MICROFILTER https://www.kitzmf.com/clean_water/
YAMATOMO.FUN
The final act will be at YAMATOMO.FUN.
The UL FAK Packing series was extremely popular at the previous booth, and it seems to have sold out on-site as well. Another YAMATOMO.FUN feature is this cube-shaped pouch, but due to its complex structure, it is difficult to mass-produce, so it is hard to find it for sale, but I would love to have one someday!
The UL FUN Drip 2.0 is a lightweight coffee dripper weighing just 11g, making it perfect for readers who want to enjoy coffee in the mountains!
This is the UL Merino X Cap 2026 edition, which was available for pre-order on the day. The main cap part has been upgraded from the popular merino wool blend of the 2025 edition to 100% merino wool for the 2026 edition, making it even softer, more comfortable to wear, and airier! It's also more comfortable and less stuffy in hotter and more humid environments.
The visor is made of X-PAC® and is waterproof, so if used in conjunction with a rain hood, it is a well-thought-out product that will keep you comfortable on rainy days.The weight varies slightly depending on the material and size, ranging from 40 to 50g.
YAMATOMO.FUN https://yamatomo.fun/
In conclusion.
So, the 25th anniversary of the Alps Summit has come to an end! Looking at it this way, each booth seemed full of charm and allure, but as a writer, I don't think that necessarily translated into attracting visitors overall. I think this is also reflected in the clear decline in the number of visitors (as announced on the official website).
Something... Overall, it felt like things weren't meshing together at the 3rd Alps Outdoor Summit.
It has already been announced that the event will be held in 2026, but what will happen?
ALPS OUTDOOR SUMMIT 2025 official website : https://alpsoutdoorsummit.jp/
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Yans
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