50 Outdoor Gears I Wanted to Use in 2023 & 50 Outdoor Gears I Wanted to Use in 2023 [Outdoor Gearzine 100]
Written by Yasushi Hisatomi
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In 2023, I have come across many mountain tools and have introduced the excitement on this site.
However, it is impossible to say that there weren't enough capacity to introduce new gear that comes out in a mountain of every year, and that there were no items that we wanted to introduce but couldn't do. It is also true that last year, when there were many individual reviews, there were more items than usual.
So, this is my first attempt on this site, and I'll be introducing 50 items that I've been particularly impressed with from the many outdoor gear that the editorial department actually tried out in 2023, at once. Plus, I would like to try 50 outdoor gears that I couldn't use due to various circumstances (mainly physics) and which I'm sure I'll be impressed with.
In addition, Outdoor Gearzine's Discord also compiled the "Best Gear of 2023 Chosen" (until January 31st). If you are interested, feel free to join us as a member and participate in the vote!
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table of contents
- Item selection criteria
- The backpack that impressed me in 2023
- 1.Deuter AIRCONTACT LITE 40+10 (hiking and mountain climbing)
- 2. Durston Kakwa 40 (Lightweight Hiking)
- 3. Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 40 (Lightweight Hiking)
- 4. MYSTERY RANCH Bridger 45 (hiking and mountain climbing)
- 5. Osprey Exospro 55 (Lightweight Hiking)
- 6. THULE Topio 30L (hiking and mountain climbing)
- 7. Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra 60L (Lightweight Hiking)
- 8. Black Diamond Purshoot 30 (fast packing)
- 9. Paagoworks RUSH 30 (fast packing)
- 10. UltrApire Epic XT 3.0 (fast packing)
- 11. ORTOVOX AVABAG LITRIC TOUR 40 (Avalanche Airbag)
- 12. Zpacks Multi-Pack (Sub-Bag)
- Outdoor wear that impressed me in 2023
- 13. Rab Phantom Pull-On & Pants (Rainwear)
- 14. Zpacks Vertice Rain Jacket (Rainwear)
- 15. Patagonia Antrakde Bib (Hardshell)
- 16. Rab Generator Alpine Jacket (Cold-proof synthetic jacket)
- 17. Rab Mythic G Jacket (Cold-proof Down Jacket)
- 18. Houdini Pace Flow Houdi (active insulation)
- 19. Patagonia Nanoair Light Hybrid Hoodie (Active Insulation)
- 20. Senchi Designs Alpha 90 Crewneck w/ Half Zip (active insulation)
- 21. Arms of Andes Alpaca Wool Long Sleeve Shirt: 160 Ultralight (base layer)
- 22. AXESQUIN Merino Wool Two Toned LS Tee (Base Layer)
- 23. ibex base layer (base layer)
- 24. MILLET Dry Grid Crew (Base Layer)
- 25. NORRONA senja equaliser lightweight long Sleeve (base layer)
- 26. Ridge Merino Base Layer (Base Layer)
- 27. NORRONA senja flex1 9″ Shorts (running shorts)
- 28. Patagonia Strider Pro Shorts (Running Shorts)
- Footwear that impressed me in 2023
- Outdoor gear that impressed me in 2023
- 30. Rab Ionosphere 5 (mattress)
- 31. Hyperlite Mountain Gear 20-Degree Quilt (sleeping bag)
- 32. Rab Mythic Ultra 180 (sleeping bag)
- 33. Durston X-Mid Pro 1 (shelter)
- 34. Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 2P Trail Tent (Shellter)
- 35. Arai Tent SL Dome (tent)
- 36. PETZL NAO RL (Head Lamp)
- 37. Evernew Ti SOLO pot NH (Cooker)
- 38. Montbell Titanium Alpine Thermo Bottle 0.5L (Insulated Bottle)
- 39. Minerva Air Mesh Panel (Backpack Accessories)
- 40. BLUE ICE Harfang Tour (Crampon)
- 41. Black Diamond Carbon Whippet Pole (Ski Pole)
- 42. SKEATS Claws Alpine Logic
- 43. Insta360 Insta360 X3 (camera)
- 44. FLEXTAIL Tiny Pump 2X (Digital Gadget)
- 45. Nitecore NB10000 Gen 2 Power Bank (Mobile Battery)
- "Impressive Outdoor Gear" selected by writer Murakami in 2023
- [Bonus] Outdoor gear that I wanted to be impressed in 2023
- summary
Item selection criteria
- Basically, we select from items newly released for the Spring/Summer 2023 and the Autumn/Winter 2023 seasons.
- Some of the products were continuously sold, but since I actually used them in 2023, there are some items that I chose.
- This is limited to things that the editorial department has actually used, so please be sure to take a warm look at the slight bias in preferences and other things.
The backpack that impressed me in 2023
1.Deuter AIRCONTACT LITE 40+10 (hiking and mountain climbing)
Recently, Deutschers may have been conceived as a bit of a plain image in Japan, but the long-established European backpack manufacturers are still alive and well. The comfortable, luxurious cushions make them look very valuable in today's world where lightness is very useful. In fact, it's not that heavy because there are some tips to reduce the weight in various places.
2. Durston Kakwa 40 (Lightweight Hiking)
Durstone's latest hiking backpack has been a hot topic among core UL (ultra light) outdoor fans around the world over the past few years. Not only is it made from the cutting-edge waterproof, lightweight, and highly durable material "Ultra Fabric", but its polished functional beauty, such as the rational back structure with a load balance in mind and the minimum storage capacity, can only be described as stunning.
3. Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 40 (Lightweight Hiking)
The backpack, released in the new Unbound series of hiking lines, which HMG, a familiar face in the UL world, has been releasing for the first time in a while, and while maintaining the basic design of simple, rugged, waterproof, lightweight, and durable DCH fabric, it has evolved into an even more attractive backpack thanks to its cutting-edge, sophisticated features and convenient storage.
4. MYSTERY RANCH Bridger 45 (hiking and mountain climbing)
It combines the lightness and convenience of a running vest while maintaining the toughness and comfort that is the charm of a mystery lunch. This balance was personally unmatched on the large models up until last year, but I was completely hooked on this 45 liter.
5. Osprey Exospro 55 (Lightweight Hiking)
A lighter backpack would be better, but I don't want to hold back as much comfort, durability and ease of use as possible. For those people, we recommend Osprey's Exospro 55, a global brand that you can trust. I am still ashamed to the development capabilities that have achieved such functionality with this light weight, such as the comfortable back and even storage.
6. THULE Topio 30L (hiking and mountain climbing)
A comfortable hiking backpack from a comprehensive Nordic Swedish carrier manufacturer. It is only because it has been less popular in the outdoors that it firmly compensates for the weaknesses (center of gravity and weight) of this type (tension mesh back) backpack, and adds the sophisticated convenience unique to THULE, making it even more complete than you imagined.
7. Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra 60L (Lightweight Hiking)
Ultra-lightweight hiking backpacks from Zpacks, a lively UL outdoor brand in North America. This one is also made of the latest "Ultra Fabric" material, keeping it top-class light. Furthermore, tension mesh is used on the back, and the length of the back can be adjusted by raising and lowering the shoulder pads, making it a great way to carry it comfortably.
8. Black Diamond Purshoot 30 (fast packing)
When it comes to backpacks for speed hiking with black diamonds, the "Distance" series is very popular and highly rated, and I personally consider it my favorite, so I honestly didn't expect this one, which was secretly released around the same time, but this was an unexpected jackpot. The running pack base has an excellent fit that envelops your body. I especially like the soft, stable hip belt (which also has a side pocket that can hold a lot of things and makes it easy to put in and take them out).
9. Paagoworks RUSH 30 (fast packing)
This is a backpack for speed hiking, which is now a hot topic, but this model has been ahead of this orientation early on, honing the practicality of the "running hiking backpack." I check it every time I change the model, and this time it was amazing too. If you've never tried it yet, try to experience its high level of perfection, with the excellent comfort of carrying it and the storage that is as stable as ever and is easy to use with minimal parts.
10. UltrApire Epic XT 3.0 (fast packing)
UltrApire has solid abilities that even professional athletes can trust in the Tre Run Pack. Their fast packing series, "Epic XT," has been used since the first 25-liter model, but the lineup has expanded year by year, and this latest model has finally expanded to 35 liters, allowing for a capacity of several nights for fast packing. As the size increases, storage is versatile, and the rear panel has increased stability, fit, and cushioning to accommodate more heavy loads, making it not just for running or fast packing, but also excellent as a normal hiking backpack.
11. ORTOVOX AVABAG LITRIC TOUR 40 (Avalanche Airbag)
The "Avalanche Airbags" are evolving with the daily progress of this year's attention is the LITRIC series, which was created through the joint development of Arcteryx and Ortbox, and is as complete as expected, and has become a new personal main pack in the backcountry. . The airbag unit is even lighter and more convenient to use. The ortbox is well-known for its high quality Alpine Packs, so it is also perfect for use as a backpack. In addition, it has a large capacity of 40L (capacity can be customized as an option).
12. Zpacks Multi-Pack (Sub-Bag)
This is a convenient, unprecedented sub-bag, lightweight and sturdy, slightly larger size that can hold various types, and buckles placed in multiple positions that allow you to arrange a variety of fitting and carrying methods. I had been looking for a pouch that could be attached to the front of my chest for a long time while I was on the move, so I was completely hooked on the exquisite size and convenience of choosing how to hold it according to the TPO. I'm also happy that it's compatible with backpacks from other manufacturers.
Outdoor wear that impressed me in 2023
13. Rab Phantom Pull-On & Pants (Rainwear)
Rab's ultra-lightweight rain shell for running and UL hiking is an impressive experience with its outstanding ability and refreshing attitude. It is the lightest and compact, has solid waterproof and breathable properties, and is also outstandingly easy to move around and comfortable to wear, making it arguably the best option for a shell to tuck into your backpack when you want to prioritize lightness.
14. Zpacks Vertice Rain Jacket (Rainwear)
Over the past year or two, not only large brands with high technical capabilities, but also small garage brands have introduced many ultra-lightweight, highly breathable 3-layer rain shells. Zpacks' Vertice is made of fabric that is ultra-lightweight (152g) yet highly water-resistant (over 20,000) and highly breathable (over 56,000 B1 method), has an underarm pit zipper, and the tricot lining is smooth and comfortable, and is very practical, with an adjustable hood, a chest pocket and packable design that can be stored in it. I'd like to review it properly someday.
15. Patagonia Antrakde Bib (Hardshell)
Patagonia's backcountry snobibs are using the new "PFC-free" GORE-TEX, which has finally arrived. As a bib lover, I have all of my commitment to "durability, comfort, lack of stiffness when bending and stretching", low profile design that doesn't cover the front more than necessary, and ease of toilets." This is a piece that will advance the sustainable era!
16. Rab Generator Alpine Jacket (Cold-proof synthetic jacket)
Personally, as for synthetic fiber insulation aimed at keeping you warm, this jacket has the most excellent performance at the moment, with the most "warmth and lightness" and the practicality of the finest detail. The longer sleeves may suit me, but I am also pleased with the design. It can be washed without any worries, so you can't help but wear it in a variety of winter situations.
17. Rab Mythic G Jacket (Cold-proof Down Jacket)
This cutting-edge down jacket embodies the idea of "what happens when you thoroughly pursue lightness, warmth and comfort." It's extremely warm per weight, and in the harsh winter, when you want to get the most insulation while worrying about the weight of your luggage, this is the best choice at the moment. Therefore, it may not be suitable for those who want it not only light and warm, but also very convenient and functional.
18. Houdini Pace Flow Houdi (active insulation)
A middle layer that was the first to adopt Polartec® Power Dry® Mesh. This new feature of active insulation combines just the right amount of insulation and breathability that efficiently releases heat, but when worn, it is more sweat-absorbing and quick-drying than Alpha and Octa, and it seems to have been combined with the "sweat-wicking properties of the base layer and the heat-insulating properties of the mid-layer" to dramatically improve breathability. I liked the fact that you can use it freely, whether by combining it with a single unit or with a shell. Of course, it is also excellent in terms of environmental compatibility and sophisticated design.
19. Patagonia Nanoair Light Hybrid Hoodie (Active Insulation)
Patagonia's new work in "Active Insulation," an active warming clothing that has been lively in recent years. It has excellent heat retention and good dislodging, making it perfect for wearing under a shell, especially in winter mountains. It has an exquisite lack of weaknesses and good balance, which relieves the cold in the morning, reduces stuffiness and discomfort during active activities, and reduces stress during movements.
20. Senchi Designs Alpha 90 Crewneck w/ Half Zip (active insulation)
Senchi Designs, from Portland, is one of the brands that has gained popularity over the past year or two. Rumors say the brand's explosive popularity was the main reason for the global supply shortage of Polartech Alpha. I am in awe of the sense that this fabric, which prioritized functionality and had a rough look, was used to make the texture of the material, and yet was simple, but was carefully crafted to create a piece of clothing that would make you want to wear from outdoors to everyday wear.
21. Arms of Andes Alpaca Wool Long Sleeve Shirt: 160 Ultralight (base layer)
I imported a base layer made from "alpaca wool," which is rumored to have performed better than merino wool, and I went on a trial run all the way from Peru to try it out for the first time this winter. Although there are some rough cuts, in addition to the characteristics unique to natural materials like wool (warm and comfortable, moisture control, and odor-resistant), it was clearly felt that the "high heat retention" that is unique to animals that live in high altitudes over 4,000 meters. With its fluffy, lightness and texture, I feel that it is unfortunate to be a base layer in winter.
22. AXESQUIN Merino Wool Two Toned LS Tee (Base Layer)
This year, 2023, the base layer made with Nuyarn, a high-performance merino wool that was first worn in 2022, was being created by more brands. I was hoping that a base layer made from a magical fabric that is wool yet surprisingly light, quick-drying, durable and stretchy would be available in a variety of designs, so I am very pleased that it was created by a Japanese brand that is easy to obtain and fits your body shape.
23. ibex base layer (base layer)
IBEX, which had been suspended despite regret, had revived and re-arrived in Japan in 2023. It's a light and joy to have just been revived, but this time it has been revived with a more advanced functionality and a wide range of lineups that suit a wider range of occasions, so it's hard to choose this. Details of the Merino Wool series, which is all year round, from the outdoors to everyday life, regardless of place or occasion, are written in detail in the review below.
24. MILLET Dry Grid Crew (Base Layer)
The newly developed synthetic base layer by Millet this fall and winter was secretly a slender one. The special grid-like backside instantly absorbs sweat from the skin, and the polyester material on the surface quickly releases its hybrid structure, making it useful for mountain climbing and trail running in the hot autumn season, which was still as hot as ever. Compared to regular synthetic quick-drying base layers, the skin surface is smoother, and the three-dimensional, bulky fabric also provides a pleasant insulation. Surprisingly (?) the design is also slim, so you can wear it on a regular basis.
25. NORRONA senja equaliser lightweight long Sleeve (base layer)
This thin, highly functional base layer has been a great help from fast packing in the spring and summer, to trail running, and climbing the river. The main material, Teijin Deltapeak, is lightweight and has excellent sweat absorption and quick drying properties, and is also stretchy, making it easy to move around in and comfortable to wear. The design also has a slim shape that follows the body lines, making it extremely easy to use for layering. Furthermore, the fabric used in the remaining part is "HeiQ Fresh FFL" which is silver-free, making it comfortable to wear despite its synthetic fibers. It is a PFC-free DWR with 100% recycled material that is resistant to UV rays and is so comfortable and highly functional, yet has a strong impact on the environment, so what more can you expect?
26. Ridge Merino Base Layer (Base Layer)
A relatively new North American merino wool apparel brand (not yet released in Japan). Although he is by no means pointy, he is an honor student who is all-round and carefully designed in everything from the materials, patterns and sewing. It was comfortable to wear in any occasion or activity. Personally, I especially like the tights, and it's a regular underwear this winter with its exquisite fit and ease of movement. It's very durable and doesn't shrink at all even after washing, and is also very durable.
27. NORRONA senja flex1 9″ Shorts (running shorts)
The running model of Nolona's new trail running series, "senja," introduced above, was useful in a variety of situations, not just trail running, in 2023, when it was hot. Although they are running shorts, they do not have inner spats, and are slightly longer than the knees, so they fit perfectly on trekking other than running. The "flex 1 fabric" is also comfortable, durable, stretchy, quick-drying, and smooth to the touch.
28. Patagonia Strider Pro Shorts (Running Shorts)
Along with Senya above, 23 years have personally been a hit with running shorts. This high-end Patagonia model was ideal pants with a balanced, high-level functionality needed to run in nature. Unlike Senya, it comes with spats and is short at 7 inches, making it easier to use for training and street runs in hot seasons.
Footwear that impressed me in 2023
29. La Sportiva AEQUILIBRIUM SPEED GTX (Lightweight Trekking Boots)
The lineup of "AEQUILIBRIUM," a famous Sportiva masterpiece, has been expanded! That's also in the hot speed hiking category for me personally! So I first tried wearing it, but as I expected, it improved mobility while maintaining an exquisite balance, and has evolved into a more "running climbing boot." I like not only low mountains but also rocky areas with strong ups and downs, so I like trail running shoes, but I also like to have as much protection as possible. For more details, please see the review article.
Outdoor gear that impressed me in 2023
30. Rab Ionosphere 5 (mattress)
I was amazed by this Rab guy on the 2023 sleeping pad (mattress). This is a masterpiece with a well-balanced overall score, including price. For more details, please see the review.
31. Hyperlite Mountain Gear 20-Degree Quilt (sleeping bag)
HMG is the first to enter the sleeping bag! The more I looked at it, the more I found it to have an incredible spec and to my liking, but when I actually tried it, it was even more amazing. It is packed with 1000 fill power down, which is environmentally friendly and has a thicker box structure at the feet. By eliminating the back and head, the weight was reduced, making it surprisingly light at 570g for the regular size. It works well when paired with a highly insulated mattress, making it an indispensable item for ultra-lightweight hiking in autumn and winter.
32. Rab Mythic Ultra 180 (sleeping bag)
It will be released in 2022, but I have selected it because it will continue to be the best spring and summer sleeping bag for me, even in 2023. As we have introduced this several times before, the outer material uses the world's first "thermo-reflective thermo-ionic lining" technology, which is coated with titanium fibers, and the padding is 900FP down (water-repellent), making this a masterpiece packed with all the elements you'd like to have as a lightweight sleeping bag for mountaineering.
33. Durston X-Mid Pro 1 (shelter)
Durstone, one of the most powerful outdoor manufacturers in the world, has suddenly become known to the world, and has been a groundbreaking product that can definitely be said to be an epoch-making product in the history of outdoor tents over the past few years. Made from a unique and innovative design, cutting-edge materials and a stitching factory with the world's most technical capabilities, this two-pole tent is not only ultra-lightweight and highly durable, but also comfortable to livable, making it easy to set up. This completely eliminated the image that was once in the shelter as "light but small, weak, and expensive." Please review the details that get a close look at the secret.
34. Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 2P Trail Tent (Shellter)
A new HMG release with a fantastic appearance this season. It has a hybrid structure with a two-pole triangular roof like the so-called Z Packs' Duplex Tent and Gossamer Gear's The Two DCF, with single sides and double wall entrances, but it is easier to use than ZP and more livable than GG, making it a very lightweight and durable shelter that is gradually refined and refined than the competition. It's spacious and comfortable, very breathable, and spacious for two people, has two doors so you can enter and exit (there is plenty of vestibule), and because it's DCF, it's always easy to relax and durable (and is light at 680 grams for two people), making it a satisfying piece that can be used anywhere, almost without any complaints except in the snowy mountains.
35. Arai Tent SL Dome (tent)
What's good is that it has a simple, free-standing dome shape, but the fabric is thin and light (980g with tent pole fry). However, in terms of durability such as water resistance, this tent is safe (compared to ultra-lightweight tents from overseas). Even though it's for two people, it's a solo one as long as it's compact. However, the drawback is ventilation. The summer was hot and very hot. It is easy to use in the coming seasons, such as autumn, winter, spring.
36. PETZL NAO RL (Head Lamp)
The King of Outdoor Headlamp "PETZL NAO" series, which is recognized by everyone for its lightness, output, and high quality rays, has finally undergone a full model change. You can't use it to get to know the forefront of headlamps. The evolution from the previous model is that the maximum output has been significantly improved from 750 to 1500. The light part on the front is extremely thin and lighter, greatly improving comfort. This alone is a clear evolution, but the battery is now easier to use, as it is charged with USB Type-C, and the battery itself functions as a mobile battery in emergencies, making it a perfect fit. Of course, it's perfect for trail running and ultra trails, and may be over-spec for everyday hiking, but for rare night hiking and early climbing to arrive, you'll be sure to feel glad you had it.
37. Evernew Ti SOLO pot NH (Cooker)
Evernew's UL Gear delivers amazing new releases that have a way of breaking through every time, making you smile. This work has finally disappeared, and it has a 550ml capacity, making it as light as 76g. You can heat it by wrapping a silicone band instead of a handle (without using a pot lifter) and hold it by hand (although it's hot), and the fine details such as the clever scale line and spout are well-crafted, making it safe. The insatiable challenge of reducing weight continues.
38. Montbell Titanium Alpine Thermo Bottle 0.5L (Insulated Bottle)
It's finally out! A "titanium model" has been released in the Alpine Thermo bottle, which has become popular with mountain climbers for its overwhelming heat retention and lightness. I'm definitely buying it now. There are plenty of heat retention performance, if not as good as stainless steel models, and of course it has inherited the ease of use. So the weight of the attention is "Stainless steel: 237g → Titanium: 200g"! Couldn't this be a bit lighter? Such a question would be rude to people like me who can't help but choose if there is room to cut even a gram.
39. Minerva Air Mesh Panel (Backpack Accessories)
When I was traveling to Osaka, I was wandering around the "lodge" in Umeda, and suddenly I found it, and I had a feeling that it would be good, and I bought it without expecting it from the affordable price. It's quite good. The mesh itself fits a little when set up, but the mesh itself is light and has a 3D feel and cushioning, making it comfortable. If you attach it to an ultra-lightweight backpack with a light back, it can be easily transformed into a highly breathable back panel.
40. BLUE ICE Harfang Tour (Crampon)
When skiing backcountry, there is a tendency for more safety gear to carry in case of an emergency, and in that case, it becomes extremely important to reduce the weight of each tool. The BLUE ICE Harfang Tour was right in the middle of my needs. Is it okay to make something like this look? I think so, but in reality it worked as expected. The innovative construction of lightweight, highly durable UHMWPE & HTPE straps and an aluminum eight-prong structure is lightweight and easy to store, compared to other lightweight clamps, making it easy to put on and take off. It has become a perfect name for my lightweight BC clamp this season.
41. Black Diamond Carbon Whippet Pole (Ski Pole)
This item is also not released for 23 years, but it is an essential item for newly added backcountry skiing. Ice axes are a must-have for steep routes when skiing backcountry, but for delicate routes that make you wonder whether to bring them with you, the whippet pole with an axe on the head of the pole is very convenient and safe. The head part is certainly heavy, but I never imagined it would be so easy to not only climb steep slopes, but also to have to lower your backpack and shut down the pole every time you do things like an unintended traverse or unexpected fall. As a result, it has led to lighter weight, faster speed and improved safety.
42. SKEATS Claws Alpine Logic
Ski crampons (ski crampons) generally have the weakness of the steeper slopes (if climbing support is increased), which makes it difficult for the clamp's claws to penetrate, but this is a lightweight clamp that can be attached directly to a board and compensates for this weakness. It was released a year ago, but a stronger and sharper Alpine model has been released this season, so I've finally tried it out. (Although it has not been used in such a severe situation yet) it certainly improves stability on steep and crisp slopes. It was also not as difficult to walk as I thought. All that's left is if the price was a little more gentle. .
43. Insta360 Insta360 X3 (camera)
To be precise, I bought it in 2022, but the one I actually used up to date was backcountry skiing after 2023. It's amazing that you can freely take images that you've never been able to take before without worrying about the direction of the camera, such as taking powerful selfies with you, or taking a spectacular follow-up shot by stretching out a selfie stick on your back. I am grateful for pushing the joys of the mountains even further.
44. FLEXTAIL Tiny Pump 2X (Digital Gadget)
An electric air pump that's not essential but is convenient to have. The Tiny Pump 2X gadget by FLEXTAIL, a group of outdoor-loving engineers, has a body smaller than a fist that allows air to be firmly injected into the air mat. That's what I've seen before, but this one comes with an LED lamp that can also be used as a lantern, and is also wonderful in that it can be used as a mobile battery. It comes with multiple patterns of connectors, so it seems to be compatible with mats from major brands (although I haven't tried them all).
45. Nitecore NB10000 Gen 2 Power Bank (Mobile Battery)
I often see the equipment of ultra-light hikers overseas, but it's difficult to find in Japan, so I bought this ultra-small mobile battery when I imported another product from overseas personally. When you actually use it, there are certainly not many mobile batteries that are this light (150g), small (about 1cm thin), and large capacity (10,000mAh). It even supports fast charging of USB Type-C, so charging is quick, and even drip-proof up to IPX5 is available. Why aren't they selling it in Japan?
"Impressive Outdoor Gear" selected by writer Murakami in 2023
46. Mountains and roads dw5pocket pants (trekking pants)
The side pocket for storing your smartphone is really excellent. You can take out your smartphone without any stress and store it in your pocket. It has just the right amount of breathability and can be used in a wide range of seasons, so I wear it often. I bought it for a later traverse of Mt. Tateyama and wore it every day for four days, and it was easy to lift my legs and was comfortable. It has a silhouette that is not too sporty, as if it were mountains and roads, and is often used in the mountains and towns (Murakami Hiroshi).
47. Mountains and Roads 100% Merino Hoodie (Base Layer)
I like it being made of 100% merino wool, and has a hood and is widely used. I bought it for a later traverse of Mt. Tateyama and wore it every day for four days and it was comfortable. It also has a deodorizing effect, so this is the only option for long mountain hiking. I also like the lovely colors that are typical of mountains and roads (Murakami Hiroshi).
48. OMM SuperSonic Smock (active insulation)
Ultra-lightweight active insulation at 188g (actual measurement). I really love the fluffy comfort and warmth you get when you wear it, and PRIMALOFT® NEXT absorbs sweat and spreads it even when worn on bare skin, not just on base layers or T-shirts, making it a great choice for a variety of seasons and scenes for minimalist hikers. It has many convenient features, such as easily packable, built-in waist belt, pillow (!), and stretching out the sleeves to create a simple frove (Murakami Hiroshi).
49. milestone MS-G3 (headlamp)
The 2023 new product, Milestone's up-and-coming headlamp manufacturer from Osaka, Milestone has a modest power in terms of brightness and duration, but is unparalleled in terms of its outstanding lightweight, compactness, operability, and price, making it an unparalleled product, and is extremely easy to use, making it an excellent overall look. For more details, please see the review (Hisutomi Yasufumi).
50. Evernew GubiGubi (Cooker)
Even if you thoroughly explore how much you can cut down in grams, it won't make your journey more enjoyable. Even if it's a little bulky, you may want to drink alcohol in the best possible bowl, just as you would want to eat with a bamboo spoon. The hammered pattern in the world, which is only in titanium, has a sexy, indescribable only made by Japanese manufacturers. I ate the rockfish I caught myself grilled salt and then drank in this dish. I could tell how delicious the bone liquor was. Of course, it's not just about being elaborate in the design, but the ultra-thin titanium is ultra-lightweight and the compact size makes it easy to carry around, making it useful in any situation (Hisutomi Yasufumi).
[Bonus] Outdoor gear that I wanted to be impressed in 2023
Backpack
- ULA Ultra CDT 54L
- BCA FLOAT E2 35L
- Gregory Focal 48
- Durston Wapta 30
- Rab Khroma 30
- Arcteryx Novan 14
- BLUE ICE Kume 32
- Rab Khroma Kinetic Jacket
Clothing
- NORRONA lyngen Gore-Tex Jacket
- Haglofs Vassi GTX Pro Jacket
- MAMMUT Eiger Free Advanced HS Hooded Jacket
- Arcteryx Rush Jacket
- ACLIMA WOOL TERRY CREW NECK
- Black Diamond Alpine Start Insulated Hoodie
- Rab VR Summit Jacket
- Mountains and Roads Light Alpha Vest/Jacket
- ENLIGHTENED EQUIPMENT Torrid APEX Jacket
- Arcteryx Beta Down Insulated Jacket
- TIMMERMADE SUL .75 Down Sweater
- STATIC YAK BREEZE PULLOVER
- Arcteryx Proton Crew Neck Pullover
- Montbell 2in1 Alpine Tech Gloves
- THE NORTH FACE Wall Ride FL Trigger
- Mountains and roads Light Alpha Tights
Footwear
- MAMMUT Aenergy TR BOA® Mid
- Hoka Speedgoat 5
- Topo Athletic TRAILVENTURE 2 WP
- Scarpa Libereran Calibra HT
Gear
- Tarptent Dipole 1 Li
- Tarptent PROTRAIL Li
- zpacks offset solo
- Montbell UL Mono Frame Shelter
- STATIC AFTERBURNER SLEEPING BAG
- PATIZON G800 3 season – Winter
- OMM Core Liner
- NEMO TENSOR™ EXTREME CONDITIONS REGULAR MUMMY
- Garmin epix Pro (Gen 2) 51mm
- Garmin inReach Messenger
- COROS PACE 3
- Gossamer Gear LT5 three piece carbon trekking pole
- Black Diamond Purging FLZ
- VSSL Java G25 Coffee Grinder
- Black Diamond Vaper
- Black Diamond Transfer LT Blade
- Black Diamond Venom LT Tech
- PIEPS Pro IPS
- ZEQUE Jaz
- Sony α7CR
- Black Diamond Distance 1500
- FUJIKAZE Electric Heat Goggles
summary
We hope to continue trying out many mountain tools in 2024 in search of "ultimate equipment" and share the excitement with everyone, so we look forward to your continued support of Outdoor Gearzine.
