Here's a list of special gear you can get on a low mountain hike in winter
Written by Yasushi Hisatomi
At this time of year, when Siberian air masses from the continent cover the Japanese archipelago and a full-scale winter pressure arrangement began to continue, many of Japan's mountains are covered in deep snow, making it the season for full-scale winter mountain climbing. On the other hand, even low mountains near Tokyo can get hit by snow depending on the timing, so in that sense it can be just the right amount of difficulty for trying out snowy mountains.
So, in my first post of the New Year, I've re-listed some of the best mountain tools I actually use and like on low mountain hikes in winter, as well as the best gear I've seen so far compared to the comparison reviews. Please note that this includes personal preferences, but we would like to introduce you to the "Personal Best Choice for Winter Day Hiking Day Hiking" that will be useful for everyone, from those who are planning on trying a winter low mountain day hiking for the first time to those who haven't found a suitable item that fits well (actually, this is the first update in two years).
table of contents
- List of items for low mountain day hiking in winter
- The "wear" you'll always bring with you
- "wear" to bring according to the situation
- "Tools" you'll always bring
- Backpack
- Trekking pole (tentative)
- Crumpon (Eisen)
- Sunglasses and goggles
- Water bottle/insulated bottle
- Knife/Multitool
- Cooker
- Stove/Fuel
- Cutlery
- compass
- Maps and course materials
- Headlamp
- Replacement battery (mobile battery)
- medicine
- Sunscreen
- Writer Match
- Mobile phones and smartphones
- Roll paper
- Behavioral eating
- Emergency food
- Plastic bag
- Spare shoelaces (slim)
- clock
- Dust tape
- Emergency sheet
- Tools to bring according to the situation
- summary
List of items for low mountain day hiking in winter
Introduction
The periods and destinations we expect from this list of items are the mountains near Tokyo (such as Okutama, Tanzawa, and parts of Okuchichibu) from January to March. Even though there is snow, it is not enough to fill up to your knees or waist and cannot proceed, but we are planning a day trip that will allow you to enjoy a solid snowy view near the ridge if the timing is right. Therefore, snowy mountains over 2,000m, which are essential for 12-prong crampons and pickles, are out of the strike zone, but most of them are high quality and versatile items for snowy mountain equipment, so I think it's helpful, with the exception of a small amount. Of course, the situation will vary completely depending on the amount of snowfall that year and the most recent weather, and the difficulty and equipment required will vary slightly depending on the experience and physical strength of the person involved, as well as the level of companions and the number of people, so please use this as a general standard only.
I basically chose my belongings list using the following two criteria:
- Musou... A choice when you pursue performance without considering the price. To be honest, there are many models that are good for serious winter mountains, and are a waste to do in low mountains.
- Cost performance: He is a highly useful and easy to use honor student. First off, some people say this is enough.
The image is Takanosuyama, Okutama (photo: 1,737m) from the harsh winter to March, with few centimeters of snow.
*Click on the text link in the list below to jump to each item.
| kinds | Clothing |
|---|---|
| Always bring (wear) | |
| Take it according to the situation (wear) | |
| Always bring (tools) |
|
| Take it according to the situation (tools) |
|
The "wear" you'll always bring with you
Underwear
Musou: MILLET Drynamic Mesh Short Sleeve
Cost performance: ATION Crater mesh short sleeve shirt
Some people suddenly say, "Is this a must-have item?", but personally I can't imagine not having one in the winter anymore.
The so-called "high-performance mesh underwear" that can be worn directly to the skin to enhance the dryness and prevent cold sweating, and is often considered a summer staple. However, winter is winter, when layering makes it easier to accumulate dead air inside the clothes, and it is very effective not only in terms of sweat removal but also insulation. Millet's dryermic is especially popular with the bulky mesh, giving it a high dry feel and heat insulation effect. Just having this will reduce your body bulkiness, so you can't let it go in winter.
Base layer (tops)
Musou: Arc'teryx Satro AR Zip Neck Shirt LS
Cost performance: mont-bell Super Merino Wool LW Round Neck Shirt
[Official online shopping site] mont-bell Super Merino Wool LW Round Neck Shirt
Merino wool is the best winter base layer, as you want to prioritize high heat retention no matter what. Personally, I like the Arcteryx Satro AR, which combines the characteristics of wool with stretchability and high strength, and the high-color zip neck type that prevents snow and cold air from coming into contact with it.
we also recommend Capreen Air Hoodie, which is equipped with three-dimensional uneven fabric, a light, soft feel, and high heat retention and breathability. There are many other recommendations, but please also refer to this past feature on Merino wool comparison .
Base layer (bottoms)
Musou: Smartwool Men's Merino 250 Base Layer Bottom
Cost performance: Phenix Outlast® Mid wt. Stretch Tights
Depending on the temperature, the bottoms of the base layer may be optional with only thick trekking pants. Because trekking pants are too thick, it's not easy to use, so in my case I wear them with all-season trekking pants with as thin and warm base layers as possible. The basics are merino wool. This will be perfect for snowy mountains during the harsh winter. However, the models I chose for value-effectiveness, despite being thin, but the Outlast temperature control function is very good. Actually, I have two of these and it's in full operation in the usual winter mountains.
Middle layer (middle)
Musou: Mountain Hardwear Core Strata Jacket
Cost performance: Rab Alpha Flash Jacket
A piece to wear between the base layer and the outerwear. The basic goal is to keep the body heat out (insulating) and keep it warm, but we also recommend highly breathable insulation wear made of synthetic fibers, which is breathable, easy to sweat, stretchy, and easy to move around in. It's perfect for low mountain hiking in winter as it's less likely to get hot when you're moving. It's a genre that evolves rapidly every year, so I was really struggling to choose one, but I think this is the one I chose this year, given the performance of Primaloft's latest padding, as well as the amount of padding (not too much or too little), high stretchability, and the coolness of the details such as the zipper. However, as always, it is hard to abandon the other side of Polartec alpha's comfort, and the Rab, which I chose for its cost-effectiveness, is also recommended as a mid-size outfit, so I recommend it as well.
Shell layer (outer)
Musou: NORRONA lofoten Gore-Tex Active Jacket
Cost performance: finetrack Everbless Glide
A hard shell jacket made of waterproof, breathable, durable, water-repellent material that shuts out snow, rain, wind, and cold air from outside. It's sturdy and has a slightly rough outer fabric, making it safer, but even if you don't be too careful, you can't just wear solid rainwear for three seasons. If it's low mountain, it's better to use a lighter and easier to move in than a model that uses a bulky fabric for expeditions, so I chose the ultimate choice of a super light hard shell that can be used for skiing using the latest GORE-TEX Active. The models I chose for cost-effectiveness are stretchy and easy to move around in, and backcountry skiing is also OK, making it a very bargain item.
Trekking pants
Musou: Arc'teryx Gamma AR Pants
Cost performance: mont-bell cliff pants
[Official online shopping site] mont-bell cliff pants
If it's snowing, we recommend Gore-Tex hardshell pants, the same as the jacket, but in this case it's a bit over-spec. A thick softshell material that offers sufficient heat retention and waterproof and windproof properties, while also being moderately breathable and stretchy. It's not too bulky and heavy or difficult to move around, so it's important to balance the thickness of the base layer you're wearing underneath.
Mountain climbing shoes that can even be enjoyed on snowy mountains
Musou: LA SPORTIVA TRANGO TOWER EXTREME GTX®
Cost performance: SCARPA Triore Pro GTX
One of the best features of mountain climbing shoes for winter mountains is that they contain heat-retaining materials, unlike summer climbing boots. Furthermore, there are various types, from serious, harsh winter traverse models to models for ice climbing, but for now, it's a good idea to choose winter mountain trekking shoes that are positioned as an introduction to snowy mountains. Actually, I'm not actually wearing the model I chose as a Musou, but this model because it was well-made in the summer and mountain version , so I definitely wanted to use it in winter. Of course, the best way to climbing boots is to match your feet in the end, so we recommend that you try them on ( more details can be found here ).
socks
Musou: SmartWool PhD Outdoor Heavy Crew
Cost performance: Workman Mountain Pile Long Socks Set of 2 Pairs
[Official online shopping site] Workman Mountain Pile Long Socks Set of 2 Pairs
The thicker the more secure you are, but if possible, it's better to have a high fit and grip. So, just like in the summer, we recommend the Smartwool PhD series . This class is still enough for low mountains in winter.
hat
Musou: finetrack Balaclava beanie
Cost performance: Phenix Snowy Mountains Watch Cap
There were some aspects I liked in the summer, but a knit hat in the winter is a must-have item. The materials include wool, synthetic fibers, and fleece, but there's no need to be too nervous, so you can choose the design and get it right away. Rather, I personally like the type that can also be used as a balaclava or neck gaiter to prevent the cold wind on the ridge, so I use it often.
Gloves
Musou: MAMMUT Meron Thermo 2 in 1 Glove
Cost Performance: Black Diamond Soloist Finger
We recommend a separate type with separate inner and outerwear, as it can be adjusted to keep the heat intact and easy to dry. Mammut's model is Primaloft underwear, and the outerwear is GORE-TEX Plus Warm technology, making it extremely warm and has excellent innerwear, and can be operated with smartphones, making it a perfect high-end, convenient design. On the other hand, the soloist fingers that I chose for value-effective are also highly functional. There are five-finger types, but once you get used to them, three-fingers are warmer than five-fingers and are not something you throw away.
Towels and changing clothes
Musou: PackTowl personal L
Cost performance: Towels and tenugui that I use everyday
Winter is the most beneficial season for hot springs after descending the mountain. A versatile outdoor towel that can be used as a towel after descending the mountain is convenient for wiping sweat while you are on the move.
"wear" to bring according to the situation
Additional cold weather wear
Musou: Mountain Hardwear Ghost Whisperer Down Jacket
Cost performance: mont-bell Superior Down Parka
If you expect the cold to be so cold that you won't get enough of a mid-coat, or if you don't want to feel bad about the cold, try to have one compact, highly-resistant, insulation clothing in your backpack, such as down jacket. Personally, I chose something that was light and didn't get in the way, but was also highly insulated. In terms of heat retention, there may be more Superior Down than Ghost Whisperer. Depending on the size and characteristics of the clothing, use it with your TPO, such as wearing it as an inner layer or over an outer layer.
Gator (Spats)
Musou: OUTDOOR RESEARCH Crocodile Gator
Cost performance: ISUKA Gore-Tex Long Gay Team
Gator, which completely shuts out the gap between his shoes and pants and eliminates the dubbing of his pants, shows his true value when he walks Miyuki and Eisen. It is true that there are many things that don't have to be a problem even if it's not a low mountain in winter, but it can actually be used to avoid mud when walking on snow-melt paths during the day, so it's very useful to have one.
Balaclava and neck warmer
Musou: OUTDOOR RESEARCH Ascendant Baraclava
Cost performance: mont-bell super merino wool balaclava
[Official online shopping site] mont-bell Super Merino Wool Balaclava
The cold, which was not typical of the forest area, changes the heat completely when hit by the strong winds along the ridge. In such cases, these are much more effective than wearing a single piece of clothing to prevent wind from entering around your face or neck. Despite its small size, it is extremely effective cold protection equipment. The unrivaled ascendant balaclava uses the popular Polartec Alpha lining, and while it is heat-retaining and windproof, it is not stuffy, does not tingle, and is comfortable in a variety of situations. It's a product that I didn't think it would have existed.
Inner gloves
Musou: Black Diamond Lightweight Grid Tech
Cost performance: mont-bell merino wool gloves touch
[Official online shopping site] mont-bell merino wool gloves touch
If you want to add warmth, or if your main innerwear gets wet or lost, try to bring multiple thin inner gloves with you in case you accidentally (and try to bring extra outer gloves as much as possible).
"Tools" you'll always bring
Backpack
Best Medium: OSPREY Kestrel 38
Best Large: GREGORY Bartoro 65
Since there are many loads in winter, I chose two backpacks: medium-sized, one for day trips only, and large-sized, designed for versatility, even when there are more gears. Basically, it's fine to use in the summer, but since there's a lot of luggage, I'd like to have more than 40L on a day trip. The winner of the Unrivaled was Kestrel 38, which won the Summer Best Award on this site. It is also suitable for winter hiking and trekking. By the way, until last year, OSPREY had a model called Variant that is perfect for all-round winter climbing, and that was my personal best, but for some reason it wasn't released this season, so I got this kind of result. I'm looking forward to the Variant model change for the Spring Seas.
Trekking pole (tentative)
Musou: Black Diamond Distance Carbon FLZ (with Z-Pole Snow Basket)
Cost performance: KOMPERDELL Wild Rambler
Scaffolding in winter is slippery, so poles or pickles are a must-have in case of deep snow. In my experience, poles are easier to use and recommended for low mountains in winter when there are fewer steep slopes or ice or winds. There are poles for winter only, but models that allow you to replace snow baskets for snowy roads with trekking poles used in summer are efficient, making them all seasons and efficient. The Black Diamond Distance Carbon FLZ which we thought was the best lightweight trekking pole for summer, has recently been released with the "Z-Pole Snow Basket" that can be used for snow hiking, so we have also chosen it as our first choice for winter.
Crumpon (Eisen)
Musou: PETZL Leopard FL
Cost performance: mont-bell snow spikes 10
[Official online shopping site] mont-bell snow spikes 10
Hike: CAMP Ice Master
Bring your crampons with you to walk along frozen slopes and mixed strips of snow and rock. Since it is not intended to be used actively, the number of nails is small, 10, and the material is lightweight aluminum, so I don't think it's a problem. Among them, this PETZL model is extremely light and has a band closure so it's easy to match with any shoe. If you are going to seriously work on snowy mountains, it is more general and recommended to buy a chromoly material model with 12 prongs instead of a simple crampon like this. Also, depending on the snow conditions and the roughness of the route, chain spikes that are easy to install are sufficient. Of course, be sure to try on the shoes at the bottom and adjust the size before bringing them with you.
Sunglasses and goggles
Musou: OAKLEY Holbrook Matte Black Tortoise Prizm Sapphire Polarized
Cost performance: sunglasses that block glare and UV rays
During winter and remaining snow, the sunlight reflected by the snow can hurt your eyes. Before you know it, your eyes will become inflamed (snow eyes), and in times of severe circumstances, you will be unable to act, so winter sunglasses are a must-have no matter what you put in. Also, polarized lenses are recommended because they not only contain ultraviolet rays, but also reduce glare and irregular reflections, providing a clearer field of vision. Additionally, some manufacturers offer high-end lenses with processing to make the contrast clearer.
Water bottle/insulated bottle
Water bottle: Nalgen bottle
Insulated Bottle: FLSK Bottle
In winter, plastic bottles such as Nalgene bottles are recommended rather than metal. Considering the ease of use when creating water from snow, a hard model rather than a foldable water carry is just right (though there's no need to worry about that on a day trip). In winter mountains, a vacuum insulated bottle with high heat is essential to restore physical strength and energy with warm drinks. Pour it into the pot in a hot state in the morning and it will last for the second half of the day. Among them, the heat retention of FLSK bottles is overwhelming. You'll need to bring a cup as it's too hot to drink directly. For portability, we recommend a capacity of around 500ml.
Knife/Multitool
Musou: LEATHERMAN SQUIRT PS4
Cost performance: VICTORINOX Recruitment
Assuming there is a knife, there are pliers and scissors in many ways. Currently, it's a leatherman that's a little small but has a wide range of features, including pliers and scissors, so perhaps the best.
Cooker
Musou: SOTO Thermostack SOD-520
Cost performance: PRIMUS Easy Cook Solo Set S
Of course, if you are bringing food that can be eaten with tableware, you can also keep it on hand for emergency evacuation. SOTO's thermostacks are made of a removable titanium lightweight mug and a double walled stainless mug, so you can use them as a heat-retaining cup in winter, or can be equipped with a UL unit that only uses a titanium mug, making them a nice item that can be used flexibly depending on your purpose. I've been keeping my eye on it since it was released this season, and before I knew it, I've been using it for a long time.
Stove/Fuel
Musou: SOTO Windmaster SOD-310
Cost performance: SOTO AMICUS SOD-320
Firearms are a must-have for winter when it is difficult to set up a fire or not. It is a must-have item for bringing warm ingredients, as well as for emergency evacuation. In winter, the temperature is low, fuel is less likely to vaporize, and most winds are strong, so Windmaster is the strongest stove at present, with stable heat even in low temperatures and strong winds. By the way, be sure to bring a high-power gas cartridge for winter.
Cutlery
When bringing food that can be eaten with tableware. You can use any type of spoon, fork, or chopsticks, but the "spoke" type, which allows you to use both spoons and forks, is relatively convenient. However, I have not yet found the best weapon that combines length optimized for a deep bottom cooker with ease of storage and ease of eating.
compass
In winter, it is common for summer roads to be covered in snow and paths to be invisible, so reading techniques are essential. In some way, a compass is a must.
Maps and course materials
The map is not as simple as a guidebook, but it would be ideal to write the magnetic North Line yourself on a topographical map of one-in-25,000 of the Geospatial Information Authority of Japan, which contains detailed topography . Additionally, you can carry the journey more safely by bringing copies of the latest records and guides about the course
Headlamp
Musou: PETZL Reactiv Plus
Cost Performance: Black Diamond Spot
Just like in the summer, I'll bring my headlamp with me just in case. If you do not plan to actively use it on a day trip, you may choose a compact model at your own discretion.
Replacement battery (mobile battery)
In the unlikely event of an emergency, I will bring replacement batteries for my headlamp and other electronic devices. Especially in winter, the battery drains surprisingly quickly due to the cold weather, so be careful more than preparing for summer.
medicine
Prepare for any accidental injuries such as cuts, scuffs, insect bites, sprains, etc. The first aid kit is explained here.
Sunscreen
In winter, when the snow surface is also very sensitive, UV rays are particularly strong, so sunscreen is essential, including UV-blocking lip balm.
Writer Match
Of course, if you are expecting to use firearms, you don't want to think about it too much, but if you have to spend the night, it's necessary to set up a fire.
Mobile phones and smartphones
Recently, there are many useful apps available, so there are more and more situations where you can use them. Also, depending on your career, you may be connected on the edge, so in the unlikely event that you could be contacted and helped.
Roll paper
Appropriate amount of toilet paper. It can be used in the toilet and wiped dishes.
Behavioral eating
Bring as much as you need, such as lunch for mountain hiking and rations (snack foods such as salt and sugar). In the mountains, it is best to get detailed food every few minutes of rest, so it's best to divide them into small portions.
Emergency food
In my case, I always have my calorie mate in a pack of one box.
Plastic bag
There is a considerable amount of time you will need a bag for garbage bags or wet clothes, so it can be used in a variety of ways.
Spare shoelaces (slim)
As a precaution in case your shoelaces break. In my case, I always put a 3mm x 10m thin drawer at the bottom of the pack instead of shoelaces. This makes it more versatile and can be used in a variety of other situations when the shoelaces are broken, when there is not enough tension rope in a tent or tarp.
clock
You can usually check it on your smartphone, but you should definitely have some kind of watch so that you can check it even in the unlikely event. Models with barometers and altimeters are very convenient.
Dust tape
The material is fabric. Dumpling tape, which can be used as a cover for repairs, as a replacement for bandages, as well as a lid after opening bags such as ingredients, and also as a bonfire fire fire fire fire fires in an emergency.
Emergency sheet
Recommended 1: Grabber All-Weather Blanket
Recommended 2: SOL Heat Seat Survival Blanket
A heat-retaining sheet for emergency bivouac that will warm you just by wearing it. It can also be used as a ground sheet to lay under the tent.
Tools to bring according to the situation
GPS Map (Watch)
Recommended 1: GARMIN fenix 5X Plus
Recommended 2: CASIO Smart Outdoor Watch Pro Trek Smart WSD-F30
GPS is indeed convenient for making your current location safer and faster. This can be easily seen with smartwatches, and now I personally cannot let go of smartwatches with GPS-equipped smartwatches with offline maps. If you want to record more precise data, we recommend CASIO if you are focusing on linking smartphone apps such as GARMIN, clear maps, and YAMAP.
Zelt
Arai Tent Super Light Zelt 1
In any case, the risk of a situation that happens in winter is not as high as summer, so it is important to be prepared for that. Zert, which shuts out rain, snow and outdoor air during bivouacs (running for emergency evacuation), can also be used to block wind during short breaks other than emergency situations. Whether you are an individual or not, you would want to have at least one capacity for the number of people in the party as a joint equipment.
Pickel (Pickel Band Cover)
In the first place, we are not planning to carry mountain areas and courses that pickels are essential for this time, but there are cases where it is best to bring them with you in case of an emergency. However, if you are going to bring it with you, be sure to practice how to use it before using it in the actual event.
Wakan Snowshoes
This is also unexpected in the first place, but there are certainly cases where people who went there were unexpected snowfalls and were saved. However, it is important to adjust your feet to your feet in advance and learn how to use them properly.
camera
Depending on your preferences and physical strength.
whistle
I don't think there will be any scenes where this is just a hike, but I have it as a charm to use it if you need to make a loud noise when you get lost in the mountains. By the way, when climbing rocks or streams, it is useful for signaling when the waterfall or wall is up and down when the opponent is invisible.
Sewing and repair set
It's safe to have a minimum of thread, needles, and a fastener that can be repaired in the unlikely event. You also need to be flexible and can do something even if it's not at all.
Pocket wet tissue
Water is precious in mountains, so it would be nice if there was something that could be wiped down quickly. It is also useful as a towel when attaching contacts.
summary
I've put it all together, but since it's a list as of January 2019, it may change again for the next season. Again, all of the models I chose as Musou are a bit over-spec when viewed as low-mountain hikes. I'm a little disappointed that as I was making too much adrenaline escaping halfway through the time I was making, I ended up with a more biased choice that I chose to do proper winter mountain climbing and backcountry.
However, it is honestly impossible to draw a line like "It's okay if it's this much," so you'll have no choice but to find a comfortable line that will satisfy you while each person trying out different gears. However, that's not a hassle, and the most enjoyable thing is the process of finding an irreplaceable favorite for you and having your own view of tools.
Just to be safe, this list of belongings and each choice are based solely on the basis of the editorial department's research and experience. No guarantee can be made regarding the completeness, accuracy or safety of the content of the information posted. There are probably various opinions depending on the individual's physical strength, experience, and orientation, so please use this as a reference at your own discretion. Furthermore, even if it is a low mountain, winter mountains are a world where winter mountains require different knowledge and appropriate skills, experience and physical strength, which is different from summer mountains. Be sure to be careful not to let your guard down, and not only accompany experienced people to gain experience at first, but also take on the challenge with complete preparation and planning.
Related reading
[Purchases list] Thinking about the best choices for summer mountain climbing equipment [Updated regularly]
We'll be revealing the list of regular equipment this season in backcountry skiing Part 1 [To avoid being called reckless]
[My Gearlist Without Preference] A list of "ideal gear" recommended for hiking in tents in autumn and winter
We'll be revealing the equipment list for the backcountry skis I've been using this season [Part 2]