In case you didn’t know, the weather in Japan is cold. Like really cold. Kiroro especially, due to its proximity to the Sea of Japan and amount of moisture contained in the air, is home to some very chilly days. In order to fully enjoy the freshies that are delivered on a daily basis in Japan, it’s important to stay warm and dry on the hill. The following is the first installment of our gear guides for SASS Japan. This week, we’re presenting some of the best softgoods out there that’ll have you happily shredding JaPOW from bell to bell…
In case you didn’t know, the weather in Japan is cold. Like really cold. Kiroro especially, due to its proximity to the Sea of Japan and amount of moisture contained in the air, is home to some very chilly days. In order to fully enjoy the freshies that are delivered on a daily basis in Japan, it’s important to stay warm and dry on the hill. The following is the first installment of our gear guides for SASS Japan. This week, we’re presenting some of the best softgoods out there that’ll have you happily shredding JaPOW from bell to bell…
Base Layers
Yes, it’s cold in the Japan, but if you’re hiking or touring (which you most likely will be at SASS Japan) you’ll need to layer properly. Start with a quilted wicking layer against your skin. Some synthetic materials may intrigue you with their buzzwords, but nothing beats good ol’ fashion wool. It’s warm, effective, and won’t have your hotel smelling like your high school lacrosse locker room. Anything made out of TREW’s NuYarn is will get the job done. This stuff is tougher than any other wool product out there and will keep you warm, dry and comfortable for years to come.
Midlayers
Once you’re through with the uphill, pound some H2O and eat half a ProBar before adding a layer and clipping in for the downhill. For midlayers we recommend either the Super Down Shirtweight or Sweater from TREW Gear. Both options are technical, warm as hell, and extremely packable for quick transitions.
Outerwear
Moving onto outerwear, you’re going to want protection from the overhead snow that inevitably will make its way under your coat. Bibbed snowpants, proper cuff protection around the ankle area, powder skirts, and hoods that’ll fit over your helmet are a necessity. Our go-to combo comes again from TREW Gear: the Pow Funk Jacket paired with the Trewth Bib. Marketed as “the most breathable stormproof membrane in the world” TREW’s Dermizax material ranks at 20k in waterproofing, and 40k in breathability (that’s twice as breathable as Gortex). Enjoy a plethora of pockets for snacks and safety gear, and stay styling in TREW’s variety of colorway options for each piece.
Eyewear
The #1 spot in our eyewear department goes to the lovely f0lks over at ZEAL Optics. Based in Boulder, CO, their focus on sustainability and community, combined with their style and product quality is unmatched in the industry. Depending on your preference, choose any of ZEAL’s shades made from plant-based materials. Our staff picks are the Capitol, Brewer, and Darby. Aside from when you’re not hiking or apres-ing, throw on a pair of ZEAL’s Forecast or Level goggles for the downhill. Lastly, don’t miss their Automatic+ lenses that adjust to changing light conditions and come fully polarized. Good stuff…
The Rest of the Face
Apart from your eyewear, you’ll need to protect your face because, like we said, it’s f*cking cold in Japan and it snows all the time. Pick up some neck tubes from our friends over at Phunkshun Wear. It’s not a bad idea to keep a few of these in your pack, they will get soaked over the course of a few hours as you breathe heavily in nuking snow, that’s a guarantee.
Packs
Lastly, you’ll need something to keep all your layers and backcountry safety gear in. If you’re a minimalist and like to pack light, go with the Powder Guide Vest from The North Face. New and improved from previous years, enjoy a fully zipped back compartment, plus front access pockets along the chest region to eliminate the need to ever have to take your vest off. If you prefer to load your pack with bulkier layers, large food items, adult beverages, or anything of decent size, you can’t go wrong with any of Black Diamond‘s offerings. Specifically, BD’s JetForce avalanche airbag packs are winners in our book as their battery powered system makes them the most convenient and hassle-free airbag to travel with.
Coming to SASS Japan and looking for some new gear? Give us a shout and we can extend you some discount codes for brand new gear from our industry partners. Winter will be here before you know it!
—