100 Mountain Gear Items That Will Make You Want to Wear This Year [Outdoor Gearzine 100] (50 of which are listed here)

In 2024, we encountered many mountain tools and shared our impressions of them on this site

So, belatedly, we're doing it again this year. We've finally put together the 2024 edition of the "Outdoor Gearzine 100," which picks out and introduces 100 mountain gear items that really hit home this season, including about 50 items that Outdoor Gearzine used in 2024 and found to be great, and about 50 items that we haven't been able to use in the field but that made us want to try them out! So, we'd like to share it with you

This article focuses on 50 of the 100 featured items, but the complete version with all 100 items is available on the membership page. We will continue to provide you with more core information, offline events, and other fun content, so please take this opportunity to consider becoming an Outdoor Gearzine Member

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Item selection criteria

• The items are primarily selected from new and updated items released in the Spring/Summer 2024 and Fall/Winter 2024-2025 seasons
• Some of the items included are from the 2023 season, which I simply missed
• These are items that have been obtained, used, and researched by the editorial department, so some items may only be available in Japan through personal import
• This includes items that have already been sold out

A backpack that impressed me in 2024

Black Diamond Beta Lite 30/45 (Lightweight Hiking)

This year, I enjoyed it as much as I expected, this ultra-lightweight backpack for minimalists who want to travel long routes lightly and quickly. It uses the bold material "Ultra 200," which is still only used by garage brands, but it's well-made, as you'd expect from a major brand, and it's highly expandable, allowing you to use it smartly by combining it with the satellite bag (sold separately)

Black Diamond Betalite 45 Backpack Review: BD's answer to fastpack style, combining cutting-edge lightweight materials and smart details

Durston Wapta 30 (lightweight hiking)

Durston Gear, the world's hottest UL brand, has created the ideal frameless backpack. Crafted using a new, untested material, it's ultra-lightweight, durable, and incredibly comfortable, even though it's frameless

GOLITE PEAK 35 (lightweight hiking)

This season, the GOLITE backpack, a classic from the early days of UL, is being reissued. This model, which can be said to be the origin of the characteristics that shaped the UL backpacks that are now commonplace, such as the roll-top entrance without a canopy and front and side pockets, has been slightly tweaked for 2024, making it still easy to use

Haglofs LIM Airak 24 (Lightweight Hiking)

Apparently, I like items with some cutting-edge features, but ultimately, I have a weakness for highly refined tools that are well-balanced down to the smallest detail. This backpack is typical of Haglofs, combining lightness, comfort, and practicality in all respects. The combination of a tension mesh back panel and a wide, vest-style shoulder harness provides both comfort and practicality

Haglofs LIM Airak 24 Backpack Review: A comfortable and lightweight backpack perfect for everything from hiking to fastpacking, with a minimalist design and deep attention to detail

MIYAGEN Trail Engineering. CREST 40 (Lightweight Hiking)

UL Backpacks is a small brand based in Okazaki City, Aichi Prefecture. Starting with a back structure that prioritizes a comfortable fit to minimize strain on the body, the meticulous design born from the designer and engineer's experience at an outdoor manufacturer is evident everywhere, making it truly one of a kind. They're currently developing a new product, and we can't wait to see it

MYSTERY RANCH Ladyx 47 (Hiking/Mountaineering)

Mystery Ranch surprised many gear enthusiasts when they released a "lightweight" model. Lightweight doesn't mean anything; rather, it's made with sturdy materials and stitching, and the comfortable fit and stability of the pack are very similar to previous models, yet still retaining its "identity" with features like quick access to the main compartment. It's certainly well-made

Rab Muon 50 (lightweight hiking)

Rab, which has recently been gaining momentum in the trail running and fastpacking markets, has finally released a lightweight backpack. It's better than I expected. Despite its light weight, it's incredibly comfortable to wear. And the ample external storage is incredibly practical. Rab has once again raised the bar in this category

Rab Muon 50 Backpack Review: The days of compromising comfort for lightness are over. A lightweight backpack with everything a thru-hiker needs

SAYAMA Fast V3 (Fast Packing)

2024 was the year of TJAR. SAYAMA works, a developer of high-end gear for trail athletes, has a backpack called Fast, known for being used by many of the runners participating in the event. The V3 model is also a truly special item, boasting durability and lightness that will stand up to intense use on the tough terrain of the Alps, quick-access storage, and customizability

SEALSON Rolling Balls Fastpack (Lightweight Hiking)

This is an innovative backpack made by a Taiwanese manufacturer that I've been paying attention to recently. This model also lived up to my expectations and gave me a fresh surprise. It's lightweight, highly durable, and has practical external storage that's perfect for fastpacking, but what surprised me even more was the high stability that can be achieved by folding the front and compressing it. The design is also fantastic

Teton Bros. Amauti (backcountry skiing)

This unique and innovative backpack for BC is surprisingly comfortable to wear. The shoulder and hip belt are integrated into a single piece of outer shell that wraps around the pack, providing a perfect fit. Its simple design will have you hooked

THE NORTH FACE FP26 (Fast Packing)

This is the latest TNF backpack for fast hiking. I liked the previous 30L model, but although the capacity is smaller than this one, it is lighter, has a more stable center of gravity, and has more functional storage, and has evolved in every area. It is truly a backpack for fast packing that you can "run, climb, and carry."

VAUCLUSE Ultralight Backpack Ventilation Frame (Lightweight Hiking)

Every year, interesting new 3D mesh pads are released to eliminate back sweat, a common problem with frameless backpacks, but this one is a breathable pad made from a harder plastic than ever before. It provides a firmer space than the flimsy mesh of the past

Yamada Packs Backpack 40 (Hiking/Mountaineering)

The moment I put it on, the fit was incredible, it was like it had been waiting for me forever. This handmade backpack from a garage brand in Yamagata was just perfect. I also really liked the fact that it wasn't just about being lightweight

Montbell Kitora Pack 30 (Hiking/Mountaineering)

Until now, Montbell backpacks haven't particularly appealed to me, but I was impressed with the excellent storage capabilities of this season's newly redesigned model. It's nothing new, but it's a well-organized masterpiece, with a removable canopy, shoulder strap pockets, side pockets that can be accessed from the side, and trekking pole attachments

NEMO RESOLVE 35 (Hiking/Mountaineering)

NEMO's first trekking backpack, which for some reason made a quiet debut in Japan without much fanfare, is made with CERO™ fabric, a proprietary 100% recycled material with excellent strength and waterproofing, and CCubed™ cushioning, a proprietary padding material that provides dryness and cushioning. The backpack is packed with NEMO's innovative R&D capabilities, including convenient parts and pockets

Inspiring outdoor wear in 2024

Foxfire TS EX HEAT Crew (base layer)

OCTA is a lightweight, breathable, and warm material that has become so popular in recent years that many brands have adopted it for active insulation. However, it has some issues with stretch and moisture absorption, so I was looking for a shirt that could address these issues, and that's when I came across this top. In addition to the OCTA body, the neck, cuffs, underarms, and sides are made with a hybrid of TS EX stretch material, which has excellent stretchability

Goldwin Pertex Shield Air Advanced Light Jacket (Rainwear)

Goldwin's new products recently have been quite ambitious, judging by the materials they use and the fine details they offer. I'm sure they are being worked on by the elite development team within the group, including at The North Face (I imagine). This new rain jacket is an ambitious model that uses the cutting-edge waterproof and breathable material "Pertex Shield Air," while eliminating unnecessary elements to achieve a weight of just 104 grams. And yet, it's surprisingly strong

ibex WOOLIES PRO TECH Q-ZIP (base layer)

I reviewed and loved ibex's new wool "PRO TECH" series last season, and this season, the long-awaited half-zip version has arrived. It makes it easier to regulate body temperature, making it suitable for a wide range of seasons throughout the year!

INNER-FACT Seamless Inner Pants (Underwear)

Original underwear from a Japanese manufacturer that produces products that can withstand demanding mountain activities like trail running and adventure races. I noticed many athletes wearing these at the 2024 TJAR, so I bought some to try out and fell in love. I've always disliked boxer shorts because they feel too tight and rub against my crotch, but these are so chafe-resistant and quick-drying that I'd love to wear them even when climbing streams in the summer

Mont-bell EX Light Thermawrap Parka (cold weather wear)

I've always loved Montbell's classic lightweight insulation, "Exceloft," but this new model uses "Stretch Exceloft," which is even lighter and more stretchy, making it the perfect warmth for active winters. It can be used as a mid-layer in winter mountains, or as an outer layer for trekking in spring and autumn, or for high-altitude hiking in summer

NORRONA falketind Alpha90 insulated Zip Hood (cold weather wear)

The best thing about this jacket is the hybrid mapping that breaks the rules and transcends the boundaries of manufacturers, using PrimaLoft® Gold Active+, Polartec Alpha Direct, and Polartec® Power Grid materials. This one piece of clothing provides wind protection, breathability, quick drying, and comfort in cold climates

OUTDOOR RESEARCH Deviator Hoodie (cold weather wear)

I've always trusted OUTDOOR RESEARCH for their development of functional insulation jackets, and this new Active Insulation is a fantastic combination of the lightweight, warm, moisture-wicking, and soft-to-the-touch "VerticalX Octa" active insulation and the breathable and stretchy ActiveTemp fabric

Patagonia M10 Anorak (Hard Shell)

This technical shell, which has been revived after a six-year hiatus, meets the fast and light demands of harsh seasons. Its ultra-lightweight design prioritizes ease of movement above all else, eliminating unnecessary elements, yet its unique patterning, carefully calculated down to the smallest detail, makes it virtually stress-free to move around

Rab Cirrus Ultra Hoody (cold weather wear)

This jacket is the world's first to use PrimaLoft® ThermoPlume®+, a cutting-edge synthetic down insulation that's as soft as down. It's fluffy and comfortable to wear, while retaining warmth and resisting moisture

Rab Evolute Hoody (cold weather wear)

The forefront of active insulation that adapts to rapidly changing environments while on the move. The PRIMALOFT® EVOLVE lining not only provides warmth but also excellent sweat absorption and quick drying, and the Motiv™ Aero fabric placed on the outer layer boosts its moisture absorption and dissipation. With a soft, stretchy, and comfortable fit, it has everything you need for a mid-layer

This season's most noteworthy active warmer, the Rab Evolute Hoody, takes active insulation to the next level. [Hands-on Review]

Rab Momentum Pants (Trekking Pants)

These summer trekking pants are probably the lightest and easiest to move in. Thanks to the Matrix™ fabric, they're thin yet durable, and offer excellent breathability, keeping you cool even in the mountains. The sophisticated silhouette adds a touch of elegance

[An honest, self-funded comparison review] Field testing three carefully selected lightweight trekking pants with beautiful silhouettes that are comfortable for summer mountain climbing

RIDGE MOUNTAIN GEAR Power Stretch Earmuff Cap (headwear)

This cap is highly insulating for autumn and winter, with comfortable Polartec® Power Stretch® earmuffs. I was thinking there weren't any good autumn and winter caps available, but this one really stands out with its careful construction and sophisticated design

STATIC ADRIFT DYNEEMA MITTEN (Gloves)

For hiking in low mountains in autumn and winter, gloves that are windproof and offer some warmth are extremely useful. Recently, hybrid mittens have become popular, combining thin fleece gloves with a foldable windproof shell. These new gloves feature an Octa®CPCP® inner lining with the back, palm, and thumb removed, and Dyneema® Composite Fabric, a combination you might not expect. Warm, light, easy to use, and strong. Isn't that the best?

STATIC ROAR CREW (cold weather wear)

This innovative active insulation is made with a revolutionary yarn called "AYUKAN," which is made by twisting wool into hollow Octa® yarn. It's also made in a WHOLEGARMENT construction, making it incredibly comfortable to wear. There's also a base layer made with the same "AYUKAN," but I personally found this mid-layer to be more comfortable and suitable after trying it on

Teton Bros. Feather Rain Jacket (Rainwear)

This hidden gem from Teton is made with the new "Stretch Cordura SuperDurable 3L" material, which is lightweight at just 190 grams, yet offers both stretch and durability

THE NORTH FACE Hybrid Ablazer Hoodie (Warm Weather Wear)

The North Face's latest active insulation windshell from their top-of-the-line Summit series. The familiar VENTRIX and Primaloft insulation are used for the padding, and the lining is also treated with titanium sputtering technology, improving warmth while keeping the weight low. Lightweight and highly functional, down to the last detail

THE NORTH FACE Future Light Parabolic Jacket (Rainwear)

Worn by Doi, winner of the 2024 TJAR, this all-weather outer shell jacket offers lightweight, compact, and mobility, while also providing high levels of protection. The outer layer is cleverly constructed from a high-strength polyethylene blend and breathable FUTURELIGHT nylon, achieving waterproof, breathable, durable, and comfortable wear while weighing just 165g (size L). The materials and craftsmanship are simply luxurious

Workman Premium Ultra Water-Repellent Softshell Trek Hoodie & Pants (Softshell)

Outdoor Gearzine has collaborated on the development of this incredibly affordable softshell jacket and pants, packed with performance for serious outdoor activities. It's incredibly water-repellent, durable, and stretchy for comfort, and it's also incredibly functional, even in the smallest details, like convenient storage

[Our Workman is Back!] Premium Ultra-Water-Repellent Softshell Trek Hoodie & Pants Review: A genuine softshell that blew me away with its high performance and low price (and the story of its development collaboration)

Inspiring footwear in 2024

DAIWA WS-2302C

These mountain stream wading shoes use Vibram's cutting-edge rubber, "IDROGRIP FLEX." I've tried "IDROGRIP" soles before, but honestly, I didn't feel they were a big improvement over previous rubber soles. This "FLEX" uses an even softer rubber than IDRO, providing a firm grip on wet rocks, while the EVA midsole makes walking easier. I'm sure these will be a great addition to your stream climbing shoes

Dynafit Ultra 100

Although this brand may not be well known to non-skiers, the trail running shoes made by this brand aimed at top athletes are highly functional long-distance shoes that combine cutting-edge technology to achieve excellent balance down to the smallest detail. They offer a supple feel and impressive rebound

Dynafit Ultra 100 Review: A trail running shoe for long distances, offering exceptional comfort and a light, agile ride for all-day fun

Phaenom FR 01 130

New this season from ski boot brand Phaenom, these freeride boots are perfect for skiing. The shell is simple yet secure thanks to two buckles and a unique rubber power strap, providing excellent downhill performance. The boots also incorporate innovative features like a lace-up inner boot for a snug fit. They're also made from recyclable materials, allowing for easy disassembly and replacement of parts, ensuring sustainability. Ski boots are entering a new era

SALOMON GENESIS

If someone asked me, "What trail running shoes do you most recommend right now?", I'd probably answer this one. With a comfortable fit, excellent stability, and a midsole that combines cushioning and rebound, and reliable grip, this shoe best embodies the well-balanced overall running shoe that is Salomon's appeal

SALOMON GENESIS Review: Ultra-high-tech trail running shoes that combine the toughness of a tank with the agility of a sports car

Outdoor gear that impressed me in 2024

Arata AX-79

This season, Arata, a unique outdoor brand, has released a revolutionary freestanding double-wall tent. Despite weighing less than 1kg, it boasts the same strength as a full-scale mountain tent. The compact interior also boasts ample storage space in the rear, ensuring maximum comfort throughout the day

Surprisingly light, yet strong and comfortable, and reasonably priced. The Arata AX Series, packed with innovative ideas, offers a new perspective on freestanding mountain tents. [Practical Review]

belmont UL Noko

When hiking in a mountain stream, a saw is useful for cutting driftwood for a bonfire, but you want a lightweight, compact model that's easy to carry. However, you don't want to compromise on sharpness. This saw is a miracle that fulfills that desire. It's light and compact, yet has a decent length and sharpness

COROS VERTIX 2S

It's a relatively affordable outdoor smartwatch with incredible battery life, a highly accurate GPS sensor, and offline maps. The 2S, which has been improved in detail since its release this season, has finally made the switch from Garmin. I'll be reviewing it in detail soon, but so far I'm very happy with it

Durston Iceline Trekking Poles

Durston's revolutionary trekking poles aren't much talked about in Japan. Their unique three-piece design with only one connection point makes them lighter, stronger, and more reliable than ever before. Each pole weighs just 145 grams, yet their thick inner diameter makes them surprisingly durable

Durston X-Dome 1+

I can't wait for their new products every time, and their latest release is a freestanding double-wall tent that combines an extremely comfortable interior space with amazing lightness. Every detail has been carefully considered, from ease of setup, living space, weather resistance, weight, durability, and ease of use, and I'm still amazed by their first-class construction

Leatherman FREE T4 Multitool

I own a SQUIRT PS4, but it was discontinued at some point. Instead, the new "FREE" series this season has introduced the compact, portable, high-end T4 model. I'm grateful that they're still offering the model with the convenient scissors. It's also nice to have a Phillips head screwdriver on hand in case of emergency

Garmin inReach Messenger Plus

Garmin's inReach is a GPS and SOS device that allows two-way communication via satellite. Until now, satellite communication was limited to SOS messages and standard messages, but the introduction of this device has made it much easier to use. With this device and the new monthly plan, you can send two-way messages using text, voice, and photos via a smartphone app. Of course, you can also use GPS to check your current location and route, and send SOS signals. But it's still expensive

GARUD kanamari400

This fall, I came across an ultra-lightweight, thin aluminum cooktop. It's been stripped down to the bare minimum, weighing just 41 grams, including the lid, which is unbelievable even for titanium. And best of all, it's made of aluminum, an alloy with excellent thermal conductivity, so I can even cook rice with it. It's a wonderful, filial son. As someone who believes in aluminum cooktops, this is a product I'll never want to let go of

Insta360 Insta360 X4

This 360-degree camera makes creating memories in the mountains fun. It not only lets you take videos and still images, but also has features like time lapse and time shift, making it perfect for those who want to record beautiful outdoor scenery or create entertaining videos. It's easy to use, so it's recommended even for those who have never used an action camera before

Insta360 X4 Mountaineering and Hiking Review: The long-awaited 8K 360-degree camera has evolved into an unbeatable "all-purpose action camera"

NEMO Tensar All Season

Among the many excellent sleeping pads released this year, the model that stands out as the best performing is NEMO's latest Tensor Series air mattress. Its R-value per weight is particularly high, making it the safest air mattress available for year-round use

NEMO Tensor All Season Review: There are no more flaws to be found. This supreme air mattress continues to evolve to new heights

PETZL Swift RL

Petzl's high-end headlamp, the envy of headlamp manufacturers worldwide for its high-quality beam and electronics, as well as its practicality in the field, has been renewed. It's now brighter, lasts longer, and is easier to use, making it an indispensable item. It's a bit pricey, but the unrivaled quality means I have no regrets at all

[An honest review] The PETZL Swift RL is a masterpiece headlamp that combines cutting-edge technology and expert design, offering both power and practicality

Rab Ultrasphere 4.5

2024 was also the year of excellent sleeping pads. The Rab air mattress is a prime example of this. Compact, warm, comfortable, and cost-effective, it's irresistible and makes you want to buy one

The second wave of sleep pads from the UK has arrived. Rab's new Ultrasphere 4.5 air mattress is "highly insulated, comfortable, lightweight, and affordable." It's still a must-buy

Sea to Summit Spark -1C

As I wrote in my review for this season, this is an excellent sleeping bag that packs the highest level of lightness and comfort into a simple form. It weighs less than 500g, which is significantly lighter than competing sleeping bags of the same level, and it also boasts practicality not found in mainstream Japanese brands, such as waterproof and breathable material in the footbox

Sea to Summit Spark / Spark Pro -1C Sleeping Bag Review: The ultimate in lightness and comfort packed into a simple form. A hidden gem with the best value for money

SOTO Regulator Stove TriTrail

This lightweight single-burner stove uses SOTO's proprietary CB Tough canister, designed for high performance in mountain environments, to provide stable heat at high altitudes and in low temperatures, just like its OD canister counterpart. It weighs just 135 grams, yet boasts a stable, low center of gravity. Its built-in regulator ensures stable, high heat even in low temperatures and for extended use. The new CB canister is more reasonably priced than the OD canister, which may mean that CB canisters will become mainstream in the future

STATIC ADRIFT Ti SLEEPING BAG

I had my eye on the "ADRIFT SLEEPING BAG," which uses STATIC's signature OCTA as a sleeping bag, but when this season's model was released with a titanium sputtering-coated lining, I couldn't resist buying it. Lighter and warmer than ever before, with exceptional breathability and comfort, it's a great item to sleep in during the summer and also works great as an inner sleeping bag in the fall and winter

TMR industries LTCooker

This aluminum cooktop, which has been featured frequently in the "Yamamachi" series, is made with high-quality cutting technology. The distinctive base was developed after numerous prototypes to achieve the highest level of heat efficiency, and it has a one-of-a-kind design that makes an impact. Of course, it is also stackable with 110-size cartridges, making it highly practical for outdoor use

Varilux Varilux XR x Transitions

This season, I tried using a combination of progressive glasses and photochromic sunglasses for the first time. The Varilux was so comfortable that it became a necessity even in the snow-free season. I've never been good with contact lenses, but the clarity of my vision and the comfort of not having to worry about dry eyes are unbearable

"Varilux XR x Transitions" experience report. No need to change lenses from door to peak! Cutting-edge AI-powered "profocal x photochromic" sunglasses lenses eliminate eye problems on the mountain

summary

Above, Outdoor Gearzine has introduced 50 outdoor items that we think are great for 2024. You can find the remaining 50 items on the OFUSE membership page

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Outdoor Gearzine will continue its quest for better and more beautiful mountain gear in 2025 and hope to share its excitement with all its readers, so we hope you will continue to support us

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