Many outdoor gear items are created for use in the harsh conditions of mountain climbing, unlike our everyday lives. From major mass-market brands to garage brands where design and production are handled by a single person, when you pursue functionality to its limit, you inevitably find some similarities. However, deep down, there is a strong expression of the experience cultivated by the designers and makers, as well as the visions they produce from that experience.
I felt this particularly strongly recently with the Yamatomichi UL Rain Hoody, which was released last year.
¥26,500
Weight : 118g
Color : Navy, Mustard
¥27,500
Weight : 98g
Color : Ebony
This UL Rain Hoody comes in two types using different fabrics, called PU Sosui and PU Shinsui, both of which are waterproof and breathable garments that excel in bad weather.
PU Sosui uses Pertex Shield Pro, which combines excellent waterproofness, breathability, and light weight, while the PU Shinsui model uses Pertex Shield, which is slightly less waterproof and breathable but even lighter. Although both are 3-layer fabrics, they can be folded compactly, making them excellent for carrying. Many people are surprised by how light they are when they hold them, but that lightness comes not only from the fabric but also from the design.
This extremely simply made rain hoody has had parts like zippers and buttons stripped away as much as possible. The only parts used on this hoody are the drawcords provided in two places, on the hood and the hem, to prevent rain and wind from blowing in. For this reason, the UL Rain Hoody is a pullover style. And it is in that pullover style and the characteristic pattern that forms it that the strength of this hoody lies.
By minimizing seams as much as possible, the points of rain entry are kept to a minimum, and the latest ultrasonic welding technology is used on the fabric joints to give the seams durability and functionality. The silhouette is slightly loose to allow for ease of putting it on and taking it off, and this extra space also acts as ventilation for efficient airflow while on the move.
The PU Sosui and PU Shinsui were perfected by Natsume-san of Yamatomichi as companions for mountain play, pouring in his own experience and ideas. Although they are simple in shape, they clearly express refined functionality and creativity. We have also received the UL Rain Pants, which use the same material, so please be sure to check those out as well.
Also arriving from Yamatomichi is the Mini, a backpack that is perfect for one-day hikes and everyday use.
This has arrived in store several times already, but it has been well-received and sold out each time. Many of those who choose it are people who truly enjoy mountain activities; they come to the store to try it on, check how it feels, and imagine the gear they will actually carry when they head to the mountains before purchasing.
Designed to distribute the load and minimize weight on the hips, assuming a load of about 8kg, it is comfortable to carry in any situation.
This time, we have a rich color variety, including red, which did not arrive previously, so please come by and try it out. Acchan, the creator of the PFM Energy Cake that was released the other day, also uses it daily for everything from commuting to weekend rides.
