First Look: A form that was sought by Japan's most well-known through-hikers. THE NORTH FACE's new lightweight backpack

His incredible speed—two times faster than an average person—is nothing compared to his incredible speed. He can walk 100km the day after walking 50km, and he has boundless stamina. For two consecutive years, professional adventure racer Yoki Tanaka completed what is likely Japan's longest thru-hike—hiking all 100 of Japan's most famous mountains (2014) and 200 of Japan's most famous mountains (2015) in a single journey, using only his feet and a canoe. He became an instant sensation in the outdoor world with

This time we'll be looking at two new lightweight backpacks that The North Face updated this spring, including the model he used during that challenge. These ambitious models retain the "solidity" of previous models, but are also delicately and boldly tuned up based on his valuable experience as a top athlete in Japan. Those who know "that journey" will surely find these models deeply satisfying, with a strange sense of empathy

*Just to be clear, the model used by Tanaka Yoki in this article is the Caelus 35

Main features of each item

Extremely lightweight without sacrificing comfort: Caelus 35

This is the model that was tuned up based on feedback from Hiroki Tanaka. The biggest change felt in this year's update is that the climbing-oriented features of last year's model have been largely eliminated, and instead a clear fastpacking concept has been emphasized

This is symbolized by the significant changes to the back panel. It features a soft trampoline structure known as back mesh, which is characterized by a comfortable feel when carrying it on your back. The effectiveness of this mechanism has already been proven by many manufacturers, but the problem that is often cited as a weakness of this type of mechanism, "the cargo space being compressed by the frame and becoming narrower", is not so noticeable in this model. Furthermore, cushions are discreetly placed in the shoulder and lumbar areas, which is a small but thoughtful touch that also pursues comfort

Looking at the external pockets and attachments, which are essential for speed hiking, they too are packed with practical details. The top lid (canopy) has a rain cover pocket in addition to its pockets, and the front has a large drop pocket and a zippered pocket convenient for storing maps and other items. The pockets on both sides are stretchy and can accommodate large bottles. There are also two attachments for poles and axes, which is a given, and I like the fact that there is no hint of "sacrificing usability for the sake of weight reduction." However, the hip belt pockets could have been a little larger (enough to fit a smartphone with a 5-inch screen)

In addition, the zipper that allows direct access to the main compartment is large (see photo below), which perfectly meets the needs of speed hikers who want to reduce the hassle of unnecessary packing

Finally, the key factor in achieving a weight of approximately 1kg despite this level of comfort, ease of use, and capacity is none other than the drastic reduction in fabric weight. The main body is made of 70 denier geo-ripstop nylon, while the bottom, which is more susceptible to rubbing, is made of 210 denier ripstop nylon. This bold decision certainly adds to the brilliance of this pack, but I'm concerned about its durability. Of course, it seems that it's not just a matter of making it thinner, but the fabric is clearly thinner than other products, and frankly, it feels a little unreliable to the touch. Perhaps it's best to think of it as being durable enough for fastpacking

FP 25: A fusion of standard construction and a vest-style harness

is introduced with the catchphrase "a multi-use pack that can be used for a wide range of activities, from trail running to mountain hut overnight hikes," and at first glance it looks like a regular lightweight backpack, but it's actually a vest-type running pack. It's a strange way of putting it, but the more you look at this pack, the more you can't help but sense a secret ambition to combine the best of hiking usability with the mobility and functionality of trail running.

The basic comfort of carrying it is the same as a vest-style shoulder harness worn on the upper back, but the wider shoulder and back padding and two sternum straps provide more stability when walking or running (though not as much as a pure vest-style hydration pack). Elastic mesh pockets on both sides of the shoulder harness can hold bottles, making it very easy to stay hydrated even if you don't like drinking water through the tube

It may just be my imagination, but it looks very similar to a fastpacking backpack , but there are two major differences. One is that it has a waist belt (pictured above, which can be removed and replaced with a simple belt), and the other is that it has a top lid opening (pictured below). These features make it slightly more stable when carrying a heavy load and easier to use for beginners. As a result, you could say that the concept behind this pack is that it can be used in a way that is very similar to a conventional backpack, yet still allows for comfortable speed hiking. As you can see in the photo below, the variety of external attachments throughout the pack is at a level not found in ultralight backpacks of this class.

The back panel is mesh, which provides excellent breathability and a soft feel. However, since it does not contain a frame or hard panel, it is soft against your back. If you do not pack your belongings properly, the back will become uneven, which will not be very comfortable, so be careful (see photo below)

Summary: What kind of people do they recommend?

The Cailles 35 has been perfected through repeated use by top athletes on what are in some ways "normal" climbs of the 100 famous mountains, making it even more user-friendly for fastpacking and other general hiking . While its 35L capacity is a little large for a day hike, it's a versatile and user-friendly size that can be used for day hikes or even overnight stays in huts (for more beginners, the 28L variant is also recommended). With its light weight, ease of use, and design (available in a wide range of colors), it's recommended for everyone, from beginners just starting out in mountain climbing and hiking to all hikers looking for a lighter, more balanced backpack .

On the other hand, the FP25, which can be used for both runs and hikes, is recommended for speed hikers who, for example , have never been able to afford an ultralight backpack from a small garage manufacturer and would like to try out a lightweight ultralight backpack . However, with a model with such versatile features, there is a risk that it may end up being a jack of all trades, master of none, so in that sense it is a model that is not for everyone. We recommend trying it on yourself to determine the quirks of comfort, especially regarding the back pad and shoulder harness.

Caelus 35

THE NORTH FACE

22,680 yen

FP 25

THE NORTH FACE

21,600 yen

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