Size L 28-32L
Hip Belt
Reflectable Bungee Cord
Repair Tape
30D HT Silnylon 46g/m²
200D HT PC Coated Ripstop Nylon 139g/㎡
TS White
Technoforce®︎ Steel 98g/㎡
3D Mesh 194g/m²
50D PC Coated Ripstop Nylon 69g/㎡
Size M 380g (Without Accessories)
Size L 400g (Without Accessories)
TS White
Size M 366g (Without Accessories)
Size L 386g (Without Accessories)
Introduction
The Standard Japanese Ultralight Backpack
This Ultralight backpack is designed to handle not only day hikes but also overnight hikes with a maximum capacity of 32 liters, while weighing only 380g*. Its design allows the load to be carried comfortably on the upper body, freeing the waist for easy movement on Japan’s rugged trails.
The materials used are our proprietary developed 200D HT PC coated ripstop nylon, which is resistant to hydrolysis, and Technoforce® Steel, made of 100% ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene, known for its extremely high strength (used only in the front pocket and bottom).
Having undergone numerous updates since it’s first release, this new version of the MINI reinforces it’s place as the standard Japanese ultralight backpack.
Product Story
From Neighborhood to Snowy Mountains
I designed the MINI, Yamatomichi’s second backpack, to be as simple, lightweight, and easy-to-use as possible.
Photo by Akira Natsume, New Zealand Cascade Saddle Route 2012
Inspired by the classic Ray-Way backpack, by Ultra Light Hiking pioneer Ray Jardine, our MINI is designed to carry the main load on the shoulders only leaving your waist comfortably free. If the load is properly distributed in the upper areas around your shoulder blades and chest, most people will have no problems comfortably carrying up to 8 kilograms without using the waist for support. This frees your waist and allows for free and more comfortable movement when hiking.
Many conventional small to midsized backpacks have thin and flimsy shoulder straps, causing too much stress on the hikers’ shoulders. These packs are not properly designed to distribute the load around the chest equally, although they might be lightweight. On the contrary, MINI’s shoulder straps are designed to avoid the load to concentrate on the shoulders even with a heavy load. I tested numerous different strap designs to find the optimum hardness and thickness of the straps.
If you try it on, I am sure you will feel the firm and comfortable shoulder pads effortlessly distributing the load throughout the whole upper body around the shoulder blades and your chest. While the MINI is designed to carry up to eight kilograms comfortably, I believe that the pack can hold even up to ten kilograms while avoiding too much stress on the shoulders.
Unlike many typical ultralight packs with iconic mesh front pockets, MINI is equipped with the zippered front pocket made of X-Pac for the Japanese rainy climate. The pocket is not completely waterproof but highly water-resistant with a water repellent zipper, keeping the items inside dry in light rain.
The MINI holds about 25 liters in volume, but will expand to about 30 liters due to the spacious roll-top should you need to carry a tarp of light shelter for an overnight hike or even longer with proper planning and equipment selection.
So that’s why I believe that the MINI is our most versatile backpack in the Yamatomichi lineup. I use it anywhere from a stroll around my hometown to snow hiking and will keep testing and improving the backpack along the way.
Changes to the 2024 Model
– The side pocket fabric has been upgraded to Ultra Stretch (custom color: black), with extremely high durability.
– The compression cord buckle and guyline components have been replaced with smaller versions.
– The compression cord is now 2mm and the gear loop is 2.5mm.
– The hydration hole has been removed. (no longer hydration bladder compatible)
– The shoulder straps and back panel fabric have been changed from 200D Oxford to 200D HT PC coated ripstop nylon.
– The shoulder strap adjustment tape has been reengineered to be more durable over long-term use, with an additional loop for the daisy chain.
– The emergency whistle has been changed to black.
– The hip belt buckle has been updated.
– The side pockets are slightly lower for easier access.
– The elastic bands in the side pockets are now replaceable.
– The interior fabric for the front pocket and the main body is nowlight gray instead of white.
Form and Function
The following products are images of the 2023 model, so some details may differ.
Carry the Load
The MINI is built to hold up to around eight kilograms of pack weight (total weight including food, water, gear, etc.) and comfortably distribute the weight in the upper body area around the shoulder blades and chest without relying on waist support.
The MINI’s design thus frees your waist from the load and ensures comfortable hiking around the rugged Japanese mountains.
Highly Expandable
The MINI has a long roll top with a total capacity of over 30 liters in size M, and 32 liters in L. You can be creative and use the top strap, bungee cords and bottom attachment loops to carry even more.
Anatomy of MINI
Hold the red tape and pull the tab to close/open the roll top.
Each stretchable lycra side pocket has ample room for two 500ml pet bottles. Release the shoulder strap adjuster to easily reach them.
The front bungee cord can be unclipped in a single action.
A light sleeping pad can be attached to the bottom attachment loops. It can also be fixed vertically where branches are dense for easy walking.
The gear loops and bottom attachment loops can hold trekking poles without obstructing the use of the front and side pockets.
To fix an ice ax, slide the shaft into the bottom attachment loop and rotate it so the spike faces upwards, then fix the shaft with the gear loop.
The inside of the front pocket and the main body is in white to increase visibility.
YKK #5 coil zipper moves smoother than the water repellent zipper.
The hydration bladder can be installed in the inside pocket, where the back pad is. Each side has a hose port.
The front pocket has a key hook, where the headlight and multi-tool can be attached.
After packing everything, draw the compression cords on both sides to keep the items closer to your back, increasing the stability.
The sternum strap can be easily opened/closed with a single hand when your other hand is busy.
If you intend to use MINI2 for fastpacking or running, an accessory hip belt can be attached. Please note that the hip belt is solely for better stability, not for load distribution to your waist. The Slik Clip can be easily released by pushing the arch part.
The back uses a mesh material for better grip and stability.
Integrated Minimalist Pad
We have included a Minimalist Pad (H45cm x W90cm x D0.5cm / 43g) in the back of the MINI. The Minimalist Pad is removable and can be used as a sleeping pad or an emergency pad to keep you warm.
How to Carry
Please make sure to position the MINI as high as possible in the upper part of your back.
It is designed to carry up to approximately 8kg total weight. The shoulder straps are designed to comfortably distribute the load in the upper part of your torso. By shouldering the MINI in this way, you will carry the backpack entirely using the upper part of your torso comfortably. If you intend to use MINI for fastpacking or running, an accessory hip belt can be attached. Please note that the hip belt is solely for better stability, not for load distribution to your waist.
Options
We offer a number of options to expand the features and capacity of your MINI.
It can be attached to the removable hip belt. This is convenient for stowing keys, valuables, and other items frequently used during hiking.
It can be strapped onto the top of the MINI. This will add another nine liter capacity that is convenient for carrying something you would prefer to store separately from the main compartment such as a wet tent, rainwear, or an extra couple of days’ worth of food.
Our Yamatomichi Minimalist Pad is installed in the MINI’s back panel. If you feel it is too warm on your back during the summer, consider switching it for our Breathable Pad that offers superior ventilation and cushioning.
The MINI comes with a transparent plastic bag which can be used as a water-resistant pack liner. (Also sold separately)
Material
200D HT PC Coated Ripstop Nylon
This 200 denier high-tenacity (HT) nylon, interwoven with ripstop threads, boasts excellent tear resistance for its weight. The fabric has a water-repellent coating on the surface and a polycarbonate (PC) coating on the back which is significantly resistant to hydrolysis, ensuring minimal degradation even after 10 years in “jungle tests.”
200D HT PC Coated Ripstop Nylon 139g/m²
Material: 200 denier high-tenacity nylon
Coating: Polycarbonate coating, DWR
Tear strength (JIS L1096A): Vertical 9kg, Horizontal 10kg
The load value until the test piece with a cut is torn
Tensile strength (JIS L1096A): Vertical 177kg, Horizontal 139kg
The maximum value when the test piece is pulled at a constant speed until it breaks
Water resistance (JIS L1092B): 10,000mm
The pressure at which water leaks at three points as the water pressure on the test piece is increased at a constant rate
Technoforce® Steel
The fabric made from 100% ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHPE) is exceptionally lightweight yet strong; light enough to float on water yet theoretically capable of supporting around 20 tons with just a 10 mm diameter. This high-density woven fabric offers world-class tear resistance, tensile strength, and abrasion resistance. Its hydrolysis-resistant PC coating on the back further enhances long-term durability, with “jungle tests” showing no significant changes after 10 years. UHPE does not retain water, preventing the fabric from becoming heavier when wet.
The fabric will become more soft and wrinkles will decrease with use.
Technoforce® Steel 98g/m²
Material: 150 denier woven fiber
Coating: Polycarbonate coating, DWR
Tear strength (JIS L1096A): Vertical 61kg, Horizontal 58kg
The load value until the test piece with a cut is torn
Tensile strength (JIS L1096A): Vertical 495kg, Horizontal 436kg
The maximum value when the test piece is pulled at a constant speed until it breaks
Water resistance (JIS L1092B): 760mm
The pressure at which water leaks at three points as the water pressure on the test piece is increased at a constant rate
*All test data are in-house measurements.
Comparison Chart of Fabrics
In the diagram below, the higher the blue value, the heavier the fabric, while higher black values indicate greater strength.
Tear strength (the force required to tear the fabric) is represented by average values. The figures for Ultra 200, X-Pac VX07, and X-Pac VX21 are based on manufacturer’s data (ASTM D2261), while others are from in-house testing (JIS L1096A).
70D HT PC Coated Ripstop Nylon
This 70 denier HT (high-tenacity) ripstop nylon fabric is our proprietary material with enhanced strength and durability compared with conventional nylon. The surface is DWR (durable water repellent) finished, and the backside is polycarbonate coated, achieving a much better anti-hydrolyzation performance than regular polyurethane-based fabrics.
70D HT PC Coated Ripstop Nylon 106g/m²
Material: 70 denier high-tenacity nylon
Coating: Polycarbonate coating, DWR
Tear strength (JIS L1096A): Vertical 7kg, Horizontal 4kg
The load value until the test piece with a cut is torn
Tensile strength (JIS L1096A): Vertical 98kg, Horizontal 64kg
The maximum value when the test piece is pulled at a constant speed until it breaks
Water resistance (JIS L1092B): 4079mm
The pressure at which water leaks at three points as the water pressure on the test piece is increased at a constant rate
Size guide
For larger hikers, we have added the Size L since 2019, now offering the Size M and L with different torso lengths and shoulder strap shapes.
| Size | M | L |
|---|---|---|
| Weight kg |
42~69 | 67~85 |
| Height cm |
150~175 | 170~190 |
| Back Length cm |
45~54 | 54~57 |
In general, we recommend the larger L if you are over 175cm tall, but as all people are different we recommend you try out the two different sizes before you buy if at all possible.
- The length of the shoulder strap is the straight line from the base of the strap to the end of the core material.
- Please measure your torso length according to our measurement. Please refer to ONE product page for details.
Instructions
FAQ
Is the MINI water-resistant?
The MINI is not water-resistant. Though a rain cover can be effective to protect from the rain, it is not completely water-resistant. For better water resistance, we highly recommend the water-resistant pack liner or the Ziploc to keep your items away from the rain.
Is it suitable for daily use?
Some customers do use the MINI for towns, but please note that it is not designed for daily use. The long roll-top are made large to maximize the volume, so you might find them too much at the supermarket.
The MINI is, however, so lightweight and well-balanced that it is comfortable even in towns. You may be able to carry heavy groceries without a problem!
- Although the fabric used is highly water-resistant, the backpack itself isn’t waterproof. We recommend using a pack liner.
- Avoid using insect repellents containing DEET as it can degrade the fabric’s coating.
Care Instructions
- Hand-wash only. Do not machine wash.
- Submerge the product in lukewarm water with a correct amount of neutral detergent, and hand-wash it.
- Do not bleach. Do not use fabric softener.
- Remove any optional parts such as pads before washing.
- Wash off any noticeable stains or smudges with a washing brush or soft sponge.
- Rinse well so that no detergent remains.
- Drain the backpack with the mouth down. Keep dry in a shade.
- Store in a dark, well-ventilated place.
- Do not iron.
- Hand-wash the pad gently, rinse well and keep dry in a shade.
Please check our Care Instruction Page
For more detailed tips on how to wash, store and restore the shrunk item, please visit the following link: Care Insturctions
Care instructions for Technoforce® Steel
Technoforce® Steel with hydrophobic properties is naturally a stain-resistant fabric, but due to its white color, dirt becomes noticeable. Here are care methods for three common types of stains.
The longer a stain remains, the harder it is to remove. Clean as soon as possible to keep clean.
Dirt stains
- Spot Cleaning
Gently scrub the stain using laundry detergent and a laundry brush or toothbrush.
*Note: Small particles of sand that have entered the gaps in the fabric may remain.* - Rinsing
Rinse the cleaned area with lukewarm water. Make sure to rinse thoroughly with running water to remove all detergent. - Drying
Hang to dry completely in a well-ventilated, shaded area.
Food stains
- Spot Cleaning
Use dishwashing detergent that is effective against grease stains, and gently scrub the stain with a laundry brush or toothbrush. For stubborn grease stains that cannot be removed with dishwashing detergent, apply make-up remover to get the grease to lift, then gently scrub using laundry detergent.
*Note: Stubborn grease stains with strong pigments, such as curry, may leave a slight residue.* - Rinsing
Rinse the cleaned area with lukewarm water. Make sure to rinse thoroughly with running water to remove all detergent. - Drying
Hang to dry completely in a well-ventilated, shaded area.
Oil stains (eg: bicycle chain oil)
- Spot Cleaning
Apply make-up remover to lift the grease and dirt, then scrub gently with a laundry brush or toothbrush using laundry detergent.
*Note: Small particles of sand that have entered the gaps in the fabric may remain.* - Rinsing
Rinse the spot-cleaned area with lukewarm water. Make sure to rinse thoroughly with running water to remove all detergent. - Drying
Hang to dry completely in a well-ventilated, shaded area.
Payment
- We only accept payment by credit card. We currently do not accept payment via bank transfer from overseas accounts.
- We accept the following Credit Cards: Visa, Master, American Express, and JCB.
- To download your receipt, please click the link included in the Dispatch Notice, which we will send by email as soon as the items are dispatched.
Delivery
- Order Confirmation will be sent after the order.
- The items will be dispatched within 3 days after the payment is confirmed.
- The dispatch notice will be sent by email as soon as the items are dispatched.
- The delivery may be delayed by unforeseeable reasons such as natural disasters and other logistics issues. We appreciate your patience and understanding.
- We cannot ship multiple orders in one package due to how our delivery system is currently set up.
- We will ship to regions in North America, Oceania, and Europe (excluding Russia) via DHL. For regions in Asia, the Middle East, Central and South America, Africa, and Russia, we use EMS (International Express Mail Service) for shipping.
- Shipping fees and delivery times vary depending on the shipping destination as well as the size and weight of the items.
Size Exchange
- Overseas customers who need to change the size of their order, should note that the time needed for shipping will vary greatly depending on your country of residence.
- We only accept exchanges when the item is unused (except for fitting).
- If you wish to exchange the size of the item, please contact us within seven days of receiving your order.
- Exchanges can only be made for the same color in a different size.
- If the size you wish is out of stock, we will suggest a different color.
- If the product is out of stock, we may simply have to ship the item back to you.
- All shipping costs to be carried by the customer.
- We will only send the exchanged item to you, upon receipt of return shipping cost via PayPal.
- Please be aware that some countries charge customs duties depending on the price of the item.
- We are unable to answer any questions on local customs. Please contact your local customs bureau.
Repair
We accept repairs for all of our Yamatomichi products. For inquiries on repair services including patching the holes, repairing with extra components, or fixing the items damaged over time, please feel free to contact us from the “Repair” section of the SUPPORT page.
Repair Tape
- For temporary repair, please keep the repair tape in your emergency kit.
- The repair tape should be patched up on both the front and back sides of the fabric. The tape must be larger than the damaged or torn part of the fabric.
- If you round the edges of the patch, it will last longer.