Mount Nishi-Azuma, Azuma Mountain Range, 2,035m (Yamagata Prefecture/Fukushima Prefecture)
To test out the gear, We visited Mt.Nishi-Azuma, located on the border between Yamagata and Fukushima prefectures.
The temperature in the mornings and evenings dropped to minus 25°C, and we were reminded once again of the harshness of mountain climbing in the dead of winter.
The weather was cloudy throughout the hike, but for a moment the sun shone through the clouds, creating a fantastic sight.
On this mountain trip, the participants kept in mind and put into practice techniques and combinations that would allow them to use the "HYBRID BALACLAVA" comfortably on snowy mountains in the depths of winter. The balaclava has a moderate amount of space inside the mask, so it does not come into direct contact with the skin, allowing them to stay warm and comfortable at all times.
However, if you open the zipper to ventilate and move around, the damp areas will naturally freeze immediately. If you close the zipper on the frozen mask and put it back on, we felt there was a risk of frostbite on the piping areas that come into direct contact with the skin (under the eyes and above the nose).
Since the Hybrid Balaclava acts as a hard shell, it is best to combine it with a thin inner balaclava. To solve the above problem, we began developing a nose cover, which improves the comfort of the Hybrid Balaclava and also helps prevent frostbite.
Our firsthand experience leads to better product development, and we want to continue providing reliable gear to help our users take on new challenges through their feedback.
