[Package List] Considering the best choice of summer mountain climbing equipment [Updated regularly]

This site provides up-to-date comparisons and reviews of the vast array of outdoor gear available, but this page aims to compile those gear reviews and create the latest, ideal gear list. There are many different types of mountaineering, so let's start with a summer day hike. We hope this gear list will serve as a checklist for those new to mountaineering who are unfamiliar with packing, and fuel for seasoned travelers to fantasize about their own dream gear list

There is still a lot of gear on this site that has not yet been compared and reviewed, so we will update it as soon as it is completed. Of course, as new and attractive items come out, we will also update this page, so this page will never be complete. Please note that for categories that have not yet been compared and reviewed, the selection is based solely on the editorial team's wild imagination of what they would like to have

Please note that this packing list and each selection are solely the opinion of our editorial team based on their own research. We cannot guarantee the completeness, accuracy, or safety of the information contained herein, so please make your final decision at your own risk

The ideal gear list for winter day hikes in low mountains is featured on this page!

Building your ideal gear list

When we talk about what to bring when hiking, the items you should pack will vary depending on the season, region, and type of activity. Here, we will focus on hiking on well-maintained mountain trails during the snow-free season in Honshu (from the end of the rainy season to around September), covering day trips and several nights using mountain huts. We will cover camping in tents, river climbing, and rock climbing on a separate page at some point

For each category, I chose my packing list based on the following two criteria:

• Best...If you had to choose one without considering the price, this would be it. I want it someday
•  Reasonable... A choice that is affordable yet still usable. Start here

Packing list

*Click on the text links in the list below to jump to each item

What to bring: "Clothing"

Shirt (innerwear)

T-shirts are fine, but I personally recommend long-sleeved and zip-up tops, which expose less skin and allow for better temperature regulation. Depending on the time of year and location, T-shirts are also fine, but don't forget to take measures to protect against the wind and cold

Best	Reasonable
Arc'teryx Phase SL Crew L/S	PATAGONIA CAPILEN LIGHTWEIGHT CREW
See details on Amazon Arc'teryx Phase SL Crew L/S	See details on Amazon Patagonia Capilene Lightweight

Rain gear (and outerwear)

If you're planning on staying overnight in a hut in the mountains in the summer, we recommend ultra-lightweight rainwear that is reasonably waterproof and lightweight and comfortable. *Currently, most rainwear is sold separately, but it's no use in the mountains if you don't have a complete set, so be sure to bring rain pants as well

Click here for a comparison report of ultra-lightweight rainwear

Best	Reasonable
THE NORTH FACE Climb Very Light Jacket	Mont-Bell Storm Cruiser Jacket
See details on Amazon THE NORTH FACE Climb Very Light Jacket	See details on Amazon (Mont-bell) Mont-bell Storm Cruiser Jacket

Winter clothes

Here is a comparison report of winter clothing

Best	Reasonable
Montane Fireball Jacket	Mont-Bell UL Thermawrap Parka
See details at Rakuten Shop Montane Fireball Jacket	See details on Amazon Mont-Bell UL Thermawrap Parka (Unisex)

trekking pants

I chose the long type because I don't think it's a good idea to walk around in the mountains with your legs exposed for various reasons. However, it's a matter of personal preference, so I think the versatile convertible pants or shorts are also perfectly fine

Best	Reasonable
Arc'teryx Psiphon SL Pants	OUTDOOR RESEARCH EQUINOX PANTS
See details on Rakuten Shop Arc'teryx Psiphon SL Pants	See details at Rakuten Shop OUTDOOR RESEARCH EQUINOX PANTS

socks

Best	Reasonable
SmartWool SmartWool PhD Outdoor Heavy Crew Socks	Mont-Bell WIC Trekking Socks
See details on Amazon smartwool PhD Outdoor Heavy Crew	See details on Amazon Mont-Bell WIC Trekking Socks

Hats and Caps

The best option at the moment is a cap with a flap. However, in most cases it's just a matter of preference

Best	Reasonable
OUTDOOR RESEARCH SUN RUNNER CAP
See details at Rakuten Shop OUTDOOR RESEARCH SUN RUNNER CAP	Anything to keep you out of the sun

mountain climbing shoes

There may be more suitable models for the Alps or rocky courses, but I have chosen the strongest model with more versatility

Best	Reasonable
Arc'teryx Bora2 Mid GTX Mid Hiking Boots	Salomon X Ultra Mid 2 GTX
See details on Amazon Arc'teryx Bora2 Mid GTX Men's Mid Hiking Boots	See details on Amazon Salomon X ULTRA MID 2 GTX

"Clothing" to bring depending on the situation (preference)

Middle layer (and outer layer)

This is windproof, breathable, and water-repellent clothing to take with you when you're not in need of winter clothing, but a thin shirt alone isn't enough

Best	Reasonable
Arc'teryx ATOM SL HOODY	Mont-Bell Light Shell Jacket
See details on Amazon Arc'teryx ATOM SL HOODY	See details on Amazon Mont-Bell Light Shell Jacket Men's

Short sleeve (T-shirt)

Long sleeves are more versatile, but nothing beats a T-shirt for breathability in the middle of summer. Once you try on an outdoor T-shirt made with a sweat-wicking, quick-drying fabric, you'll never want to take it off. Of course, 100% cotton is a no-no

Best	Reasonable
Millet Red Needles Zip SS	Marmot Accent H/S Crew
See details on Amazon Millet RED NEEDLES ZIP SS	See details on Amazon Marmot ACCENT H/S CREW

gaiter

Although not essential, they will prevent pebbles and rain from getting into your shoes and keep your hems clean. Since you're not planning on snow, short boots are sufficient

Best	Reasonable
THE NORTH FACE Trekking Hyvent Mid Gaiter	ISUKA WeatherTech Short Spats
See details on Amazon THE NORTH FACE Trekking Hyvent Mid Gaiter	See details at Rakuten Shop ISUKA WeatherTech Short Spats

Trekking gloves

Using trekking poles vigorously can cause blisters on your palms, so gloves are useful. Personally, I like fingerless gloves for the camera

Best	Reasonable
OUTDOOR RESEARCH Chroma Sun Gloves	PUROMONTE UV Care Trekking Gloves Fingerless
See details at Rakuten Shop OUTDOOR RESEARCH Chroma Sun Gloves	See details on Amazon PUROMONTE UV Care Trekking Gloves Fingerless

Towels and change of clothes

This is essential for me, as I tend to take a dip in a hot spring after descending the mountain. The towel is quick-drying and has a loop on the end so that I can quickly wipe away the sweat that pours out like a waterfall

Must-have "Tools"

Backpacks and pack covers

I chose this bag because it was easy to carry and comfortable. If you want to choose based on other features, please check out the links below!

Backpack comparison report

Best	Reasonable
Gregory Stout 35	Osprey Stratos 36
See details on Amazon GREGORY Stout 35 Shadow Black	See details on Amazon OSPREY Stratos 36 M/L

Water Bottle

The reason I chose stainless steel is simply because of its appearance. Nowadays, plastic bottles such as Nalgene bottles are also said to be harmless, and I think Platypus bottles

How to choose a water bottle

Best	Reasonable
kleankanteen Collection GROW
See details on Amazon Kleankanteen Collection GROW 27oz	plastic bottles

Knives and multi-tools

It is assumed that you have a knife, and pliers are useful for repairs, and scissors are also useful for various purposes. At the moment, the Leatherman is the best choice, even though it is a little small and can do everything

Best	Reasonable
LEATHERMAN SQUIRT PS4	VICTORINOX Cadet NL
See details on Amazon LEATHERMAN SQUIRT PS4 Blue [Authentic Japanese product with LTJ mark]	See details on Amazon VICTORINOX Cadet NL [Official Japanese Product]

compass

Best	Reasonable
SILVA COMPASS RANGER NO.3	SILVA Compass Starter 1 2 3
See details on Amazon SILVA COMPASS RANGER NO.3	See details at Rakuten Shop SILVA Compass Starter 1 2 3

map

Even if you don't go as far as a topographical map from the Geospatial Information Authority of Japan, you should at least bring a hiking map of the mountain area you will be visiting (such as Shobunsha's Mountain and Highland Map)

headlamp

Best	Reasonable
Black Diamond Revolt	Mont-Bell Power Headlamp
See details on Amazon Black Diamond Revolt	See details on Amazon Montbell Power Headlamp

Spare batteries (mobile batteries)

Just in case, I bring spare batteries for my headlamp and other electronic devices. If I'm feeling lucky, I'll also bring spare light bulbs. Also, if I rely on smartphone apps for maps and other things, a mobile battery is essential

medicine

Prepare for any injuries you may have, such as cuts, scrapes, insect bites, sprains, etc. For more information on first aid kits, please see here.

Lighters and matches

Of course, if you plan to use firearms, you probably don't want to think about it, but if you have to stay overnight, you'll need it to start a fire

Mobile phones and smartphones

Recently, there are many convenient apps available, so the number of situations where it is used is increasing. Also, depending on the carrier, it may be possible to connect on the ridge line, so there are stories of people being able to contact others in the event of an emergency and being saved

roll paper

A moderate amount of toilet paper to use in the toilet and to wipe dishes, etc

Snacks

Bring only the amount of food you will need for lunch and rations (snacks containing salt, sugar, etc.) during your hike. It's best to take small amounts of food every few minutes while resting in the mountains, so it's best to pack food in small portions

Emergency food

In my case, I always keep a box of Calbee Calorie Mate in my pack

plastic bags

There are many times when you will need bags, such as for garbage bags or wet clothes, so they are useful for a variety of things

Spare shoelaces (thin string)

Just in case your shoelaces break, I always keep a 3mm x 10m piece of thin rope at the bottom of my pack instead of shoelaces. This is more versatile and can be used in a variety of situations, such as when your shoelaces break, when you don't have enough guy ropes for a tent or tarp, and more

clock

You can usually check the time on your smartphone, but it's always a good idea to have some kind of watch with you so you can check it in case of an emergency. Models with a barometer and altimeter are very convenient

duct tape

Made from cloth, duct tape can be used for repairs, as a substitute for bandages, as a lid for opened bags of food, and even as a kindling for a bonfire, making it a very useful item in emergencies

"Tools" to take depending on the situation (preference)

trekking poles

It's not a necessary piece of gear, but it makes things a lot easier. The best choice is this one, as it's light and seems to have no problems with strength when I use it so far

Best	Reasonable
Black Diamond Distance Carbon FLZ	Mont-Bell Alpine Pole Anti-Shock
See details on Amazon Black Diamond Distance Carbon FLZ	See details on Amazon Montbell Alpine Poles Anti-Shock

Hydration

A water bottle is sufficient, but having this will make staying hydrated much easier. However, if you only bring hydration packs, be careful as it can be difficult to see how much water is left

Hydration comparison report here

Best	Reasonable
GEIGERRIG 2L HYDRATION ENGINES	Hydrapak Shapeshift 2.0L Reversible Reservoir
See details on Amazon GEIGERRIG 2L HYDRATION ENGINES	See details on Amazon Hydrapak Shapeshift 2.0L Reversible Reservoir

Cooker

It's a good idea to keep it on hand when carrying food that requires eating with tableware, or even in case of an emergency evacuation. Titanium has poor thermal conductivity, so you need to be careful about the strength of the fire, but the EPI ATS titanium cooker has aluminum sprayed on the bottom to improve thermal conductivity, making it both lightweight and easy to use

Best	Reasonable
EPI ATS Titanium Cooker TYPE-3 M	PRIMUS Easy Cook Solo Set S
See details on Amazon EPI ATS Titanium Cooker TYPE-3 M	See details on Amazon PRIMUS Easy Cook Solo Set S

Stoves and fuel

This is a good idea when bringing food that requires eating with dishes, and it is also a good idea to keep it on hand for emergency evacuations

Best	Reasonable
SOTO AMICUS SOD-320
See details on Amazon SOTO AMICUS SOD-320	SOTO is currently the best and most affordable option

Cutlery

When bringing food that requires eating with tableware, you can use a spoon, fork, or disposable chopsticks, but a "spork" that can be used as both a spoon and a fork is relatively convenient. However, I have yet to find the perfect tool that combines the optimal length for a deep cooker, storage, and ease of eating

Best	Reasonable
snow peak school	LIGHT MY FIRE SPORK 2PAC
See details on Amazon Snow Peak School	See details on Amazon LIGHT MY FIRE SPORK 2PAC (Trans Orange & Orange)

GPS

Although it is assumed that you will bring a paper map, GPS is still useful for finding your current location more safely and quickly. It is especially reassuring on snowy mountains

Best	Reasonable
GARMIN OREGON 650 TCJ2	GARMIN eTrex 20J
See details on Amazon GARMIN Oregon 650 TCJ2	See details on Amazon GARMIN handheld GPS eTrex20J [Official Japanese Product]

Emergency seat

This thermal sheet for emergency bivouacs will keep you warm just by putting it on. It can also be used as a ground sheet to place under your tent

Best	Reasonable
Grabber All-Weather Blanket	SOL Heat Sheet Survival Blanket
See details on Amazon Grabber All-Weather Blanket	See details on Amazon SOL Heat Sheet Survival Blanket

Stuff sacks and waterproof bags

A stuff sack for hiking makes packing easy, convenient, and safe. Keep all your belongings dry in a fully waterproof sack

Best	Reasonable
SEA TO SUMMIT Ultra-SIL Nano Dry Sack	Mont-bell Aquapel Stuff Bag 10L
See details on Amazon SEA TO SUMMIT Ultra-SIL Nano Dry Sack 8L	See details on Amazon Mont-bell Aquapel Stuff Bag 10L

sunscreen

The UV rays are strong on the mountain and you will be out in the sun for long periods of time, so sunscreen is almost essential. UV-blocking lip balm is also effective

sunglasses

It's not that you can't walk unless you're hiking in the mountains in summer, but the UV rays on the mountain are not to be underestimated, and some people may find it quite hard on their eyes. Of course, it's essential equipment when there is still snow remaining

camera

Depending on your preference and physical strength

radio

I usually take it with me to listen to NHK's weather reports and draw weather maps, but it's also useful for other things like checking the weather forecast for the next day and gathering information in case of getting lost. It may be pointless to bring it with you if you're going on a day hike or don't plan on drawing weather maps

whistle

I don't think I'll need to use this when hiking, but I keep it as a talisman in case I need to make a loud noise if I get separated from my friends in the mountains. Incidentally, when rock climbing or mountain climbing, it's useful for signaling to others when they can't see you, even when you're up or down a waterfall or wall

toiletries

We have items you need for various occasions, such as hot springs after descending the mountain and contact lenses

Sewing kit

It's reassuring to have the bare minimum of thread, needles, and patches to be able to repair things in case of an emergency. However, it's also important to be flexible and be able to manage even if you don't have them

Pocket Wet Wipes

Water is a precious commodity in the mountains, so it's nice to have something to wipe your hands with quickly. It's also convenient for wiping your hands when putting in contact lenses

insect repellent

I don't think it's a good idea to be too paranoid, but there are some mountain areas where insects swarm in droves

bear bell

Bears are very wary animals, so bear bells are said to be effective because if you let them hear the sound of a bell and let them know that humans are present, they will run away. However, not all bears will run away when they hear the sound of a bell; it depends on the bear's personality and the situation, and ringing bear bells with a large group of people in mountain areas that are not particularly dangerous could be a distraction for other climbers. For this reason, I tend not to use them unless I'm hiking alone in areas with many bears, or on deep mountain trails

summary

If I were to buy all the gear for the vest, I'd be heartbroken at the number of 10,000 yen bills that would fly away, but fantasy doesn't cost money! In reality, I would also take other things, such as camera gear, but this time I left out such specialized gear and tried to make as basic a selection as possible. Of course, there are some biases, though. Everyone has their own preferences when it comes to mountain gear, and it's fun to learn about the preferences of different people. I hope this will be helpful for you in creating your ideal gear list!

   

Related reading

[First time hiking in the snowy mountains] Considering the best winter hiking gear for low mountains [Updated regularly]

Here's a list of the best gear you need for winter hiking in the low mountains

We will announce in advance the list of gear that will be available at the Mountain Gear Flea Market to be held on November 13th

[News] Items to be sold at "Setabun Market 2017" [Update]