Snow Peak is Japan’s One-Stop-Shop for Outdoor Gear (and You Can Get it in the U.S.)

In 1958, accomplished mountaineer, Yukio Yamai, was disenchanted with the existing line of climbing gear on the market. This was the catalyst that launched Snow Peak, a company that began its journey in Sanjo City, in the Chūetsu region of Niigata Prefecture. The town was known for its history of fine crafted metal work. It was here that Yamai created his own line of superior climbing gear.

Yamai was inspired by this region that is surrounded by a high mountain range, deep valleys, and rivers that empty into the Sea of Japan. It is here that the company was born and where the designers continue to be inspired. The company’s international headquarters are still located in that same area and remains deeply connected to the outdoors and to insuring that nature is a part of life.

In 1980, Yamai’s son, Toru, took over and continues to lead the company. Under his leadership, the brand has attained worldwide recognition for its superior design and simplicity and has and continues to achieve the company’s mission to bring all people closer to nature.

Over fifty years after the company’s inception, Yukio’s granddaughter, Lisa Yamai, launched Snow Peak Apparel in 2014. The apparel division’s goal is to produce ultra-technical garments built for the outdoors but that also transition easily between urban and trail. The collection is divided into three categories: Transit, Camp, and Dwell. Check out some of our picks from Snow Peak’s incredible stock below.

Get The Gear

Flexible Insulated Shirt – $240

This versatile, insulated shirt features a windproof outer layer. Front snap buttons make this shirt both functional and fashionable and sure to become a wardrobe staple.

Titanium Double 600 Mug – $60

This simplistic yet nearly indestructible camp mug is made of corrosion-resistant, lightweight titanium and double-wall construction, so it’s insulated as hell. This 20 ounce capacity mug weighs just over 5 ounces.

Iron Grill Table – $150+

This customizable gourmet camping solution allows the user to select the preferred size and height to accommodate their personal needs. The IGT allows for personal customization of stove options, work surfaces, and even storage units.

Editor’s Note: This article is part of The Manual’s larger Journey to Japan travel guide. Over the course of a month, our writers had the pleasure of experiencing Japan in its many forms, from high-rise bars in Tokyo to traditional tea-ceremonies in Kyoto. We hope this series of articles will not only inform, but inspire you to take your own trip to the Land of the Rising Sun.