I went skiing more than usual this winter. I had been getting by with rental gear until now, but since I invested in my own equipment at the end of the year before last, my motivation this season felt different.
Skiing usually involves "cold" and "waking up early," both of which rank in my personal top 3 things I dislike, but I’ve found that to be surprisingly manageable. I crawl out of bed while it's still dark, throw on my usual Patagonia sweatshirt, grab my trusty beanie and camera, and head to the snowy mountains with my usual crew: Circles boss, our accountant Kohei-nii, and Inocchi from WELLDONE.
Why I carry the WELLDONE Chips Bag on the snowy mountains
This year, I added something new to my regular gear, apart from my main equipment—my skis and boots. That would be the Chips Bag from WELLDONE.
Knowing that I’d get hot after just one run, I still tend to over-layer because the cold saps my energy. Sure enough, I got hot quickly this time too, but having a backpack means I don't have to worry about where to put my extra layers.
A backpack is also a must for carrying my camera. If I wrap it in the thermal layers I’ve taken off and tuck them into the bag, I barely feel any bumps against my back. The main body, made of X-PAC VX21, is very lightweight. Furthermore, by securing the roll-top section to the shoulder harness, it conforms to the body regardless of how much gear is inside, allowing me to move with confidence during high-activity sessions.
Also, even on snowy mountains, staying hydrated is essential. One of the great appeals of the WELLDONE Chips Bag is that it’s easy to stash a cycling bottle in an accessible spot like a side pocket or on your chest, allowing you to drink without needing to open a lid or take off your gloves.
Inspired by the "party-size" opening of a chip bag
And above all, the greatest charm is the way the bag opens, inspired by how you open a bag of chips "party-style."
You can access the contents without having to open the roll-top, so there’s no fumbling. After I take a photo, I need to shove my camera into the bag and catch up with my friends, or they’ll leave me behind in a heartbeat, so this convenience is impeccable. It’s also a huge relief to have no stress when you realize you need something from the bottom of the bag after you’ve already finished packing.
What will you pack in your WELLDONE Chips Bag and what kind of adventures will you head out on? It’s a bag that works seamlessly for travel, cycling, and any other activity.
I’m happy the weather is getting warmer, but I feel a bit sad that the snowy season I put so much effort into is passing by so quickly! I still haven't mastered the parallel turn yet! I just started feeling like I’d finally become friends with the mountains! I just reached the point where I’m no longer afraid of intermediate slopes, and now this!
