satohike - SATO HIKE

How to choose climbing gloves | Why work gloves are NG and how heat is lost

You may have heard that mountaineering gloves are necessary, but many people may not know whether the work gloves they have at home are not suitable, or what criteria to use to choose them. In this article, based on information supervised by an international mountain physician, we will explain the mechanism by which heat is lost from the body and why work gloves are not suitable...

2026.09.18

Individual Product Review

Basics of Map Reading and Compass Use for Hiking | Learn Map Reading to Prevent Getting Lost, the #1 Cause of Accidents

The GPS function of mountaineering apps is convenient, but there is a risk of battery depletion, poor radio reception, or malfunction. In such cases, the technique of "map reading" using a paper map and compass becomes reliable. In this article, after confirming why map reading is important with statistical data, we will explain how to draw the magnetic north line on a topographical map...

2026.09.18

Technique/Training

How to Choose Hiking Gaiters (Spats) | Differences Between Long and Short Styles and Waterproofing Guidelines

You've got your hiking boots and rain gear, but many of you might be wondering if "gaiters (spats)" are really necessary, and whether to choose long or short ones. In this article, we'll cover the role of gaiters, when to use long vs. short, water resistance...

2026.09.15

Individual Product Review

How to Choose a Base Layer (Innerwear) for Mountaineering | Why Cotton is Dangerous and How to Use Synthetic Fiber and Merino Wool

Introduction "Cotton T-shirts are NG for mountaineering" is often said, but many people may not know why they are bad, or how to choose between synthetic fibers and merino wool, or what criteria to use for judgment. The base layer (innerwear that directly touches the skin) is the middle layer...

2026.09.14

Individual Product Review

13 Recommended Mountains for First-Time Hikers|Selected Using Official "Shinshu Mountain Grading" Data

In the introductory section on How Beginners Choose Mountains, we explained that it is safer to start with routes that have low stamina and technical difficulty A, using the "Mountain Grading" index published by prefectures. However, we have not yet answered the question, "So, which specific mountains should I climb?"...

2026.09.14

Choosing a Mountain & Route Information

Complete Guide to Building Stamina for Mountain Climbing | Why "Just Walking" Isn't Enough and Scientific Training Methods

Introduction "Lately, I get tired easily while hiking." "My legs tremble on the way down." — Many people might be thinking of starting to build up their stamina because they have such worries. It's often said, "Just walk," or "Just do squats," but in reality...

2026.09.14

Technique/Training

Choosing a Mid-Layer for Mountain Climbing | How to Use Fleece, Synthetic Insulation, and Down

Within the basics of hiking attire (layering), one aspect that beginners often find confusing is choosing a "mid-layer." With options like fleece, synthetic insulation, and down, many people wonder which one they should buy. This...

2026.09.14

Equipment & Gear Selection

How to Choose Hiking Socks | Materials and Layering Techniques to Prevent Blisters (Chafing)

Even if you choose your hiking boots carefully, many people have experienced trouble with blisters (chafing) during their hike by simply using everyday socks, haven't they? In fact, many blisters can be prevented not by the boots themselves, but by choosing the right socks. In this article, we will...

2026.09.13

Individual Product Review

Basic Hiking Techniques | Pacing for Less Fatigue, Taking Breaks, and Downhill Tips

Once you have chosen the mountain you want to climb and gathered your equipment, the next thing you might be wondering about is, "How can I walk without getting tired?" It's often said, "Just walk slowly," but many people set out without knowing specifically what pace to maintain or how often to rest...

2026.09.13

Start Climbing

Bear Safety for Mountain Climbing | Complete Guide to Choosing a Bear Repellent Spray (Based on Ministry of the Environment Recommended Requirements)

When it comes to bear countermeasures during introductory mountain climbing, many people may have the impression that "it's okay if you wear a bear bell." However, in Reiwa 7 (2025), bears appeared in large numbers, mainly in eastern Japan, and human casualties reached a record high. In response to this situation, on August 2, 2026...

2026.09.12

Safety & Risk Management