I went hiking at Mt. Horai the other day.
Walking through the mountains felt completely different from the sensation of being in the saddle, but it was so refreshing that it left me wanting to go climb again—that was the kind of holiday it was.
With a deep love for the mountains, Yamatomichi describes themselves as a mountain gear maker that grows alongside the development of hiking culture.
They want to understand hiking more deeply through their gear. By crafting truly necessary equipment based on what they've felt through hiking, they embody something very close to how we at Circles think about things through the lens of bicycles.
This time, we would like to introduce the MINI and the Stretch Mesh Cap, which can be used not only in the mountains, but on bicycles and in everyday life as well.
We placed our order for the MINI last September, and it has finally arrived. The first word that came to mind when I held it was "Light!"
Designed for cycling, day hikes, and 1-night/2-day UL (ultralight) hikes, it's intended to carry about 8kg of gear. Because it is designed to minimize hip load and distribute weight effectively, it is no exaggeration to say that this is the best backpack, one that can be used comfortably in any of those situations.
Also, because it features a long roll-top closure, it can hold up to 30L. With the compression top strap, the included bungee cord, and the bottom attachment loops, it has high expandability, allowing for 25–30L+ capacity.
For the body, they use silicon-coated ripstop nylon with an emphasis on durability, and for the front pocket, they use highly water-resistant X-PAC material. Since they don't apply seam sealing (having concluded that perfect waterproofing isn't necessary), it isn't completely waterproof, but it can handle light rain. Also, it’s worth noting that it is hydration pack compatible—a feature cyclists will surely appreciate.
Color: Black, Gray, White
Size: 340g / 25L-30L
Price: ¥25,500 (excl. tax)
＊Comfortable carrying feel with a high center of gravity
＊Front pocket with water-resistant zipper
＊Highly elastic side pockets
＊High expandability via straps, etc.
＊Includes internal Minimalist Pad
＊Detachable hip belt
＊Hydration pack compatible
The next item we'll introduce, the Stretch Mesh Cap, uses next-generation Japanese stretch material throughout, offering a fit so comfortable you’ll forget you’re wearing it. To keep you comfortable even in Japan's uniquely humid summer, the entire cap except for the front panel is made of mesh, and the sweatband has fewer seams to be gentler on the skin. Also, because the fabric itself is thin, you can wear it under a helmet without any discomfort.
Size: M, L
Price: ¥4,200 (excl. tax)
＊Uses stretch material in every part
＊Lightweight feel so comfortable you’ll forget you’re wearing it
＊Brim with integrated wire
＊Adjuster for quick, one-handed sizing
As for sizing, we have expanded to two sizes starting this year (previously available products were M size), so they can now be used by both men and women.
Please note that Yamatomichi products are not sold online. We would love for you to come by the store to try them on or test-carry them properly so you can experience the high quality of these products for yourself before purchasing.
Also, due to being quite busy since they arrived, our blog announcement has been delayed. During that time, thankfully, many customers have already purchased them, and some colors have already sold out. If you’ve been curious about Yamatomichi, we encourage you to come to the shop soon and check out their quality for yourself.