Yuko Yamagishi has been working in the outdoor gear world for nearly 25 years. While she’s now known for her deep product knowledge, her passion for the outdoors started with an unexpected twist. These days, she’s fully immersed in mountain life, spending her time listening to the questions and concerns of female hikers.
Among all the gear she handles, there’s one piece of Elemental Layer that Yamagishi feels deserves much more attention. In this interview, she shares how Elemental Layer performs in the real world, based on years of customer conversations and personal use. She also speaks to the everyday challenges female hikers face on the trail.
Supporting Hikers’ Comfort for Over 25 Years
Based in Tokyo, Sakaiya Sports has been a trusted name in outdoor gear for over 70 years. Yuko Yamagishi currently works at LaLa Sakaiya, the store’s women-focused branch, where she helps address the unique concerns of female hikers, always walking alongside each customer to find the right solution.
With a career spanning more than two decades, you might assume she’s been passionate about the outdoors since childhood. But her journey into the outdoor world started much later—sparked by one unexpected, life-changing experience. That moment became the foundation for the career she leads today.
A Life-Changing Camping Experience and a Canoe Trip in the U.S.
In her twenties, during a trip through Utah in the United States.
Q: What was your first memorable experience in the outdoors?
Yuko: I first discovered how fun the outdoor activities could be when I was in junior college. One of our classes included a camping trip, and it was my first time pitching a tent, cooking outside, and sleeping under the stars. Until then, I had been completely focused on volleyball through high school and had never done anything remotely outdoorsy. It was a total eye-opener. I remember thinking, “Wow, this whole world exists, and it’s amazing.”
Q: That must have completely changed your outlook as a student.
Yuko: It really did. I had originally planned to become an elementary school teacher, but that camping trip slowly shifted my thinking. I started to wonder if I might want to work in the outdoor industry instead.
After I graduated, I took a gap year. I saved up money and joined a canoe trip in the U.S., paddling down a river. I think it was my way of breaking free after years in a structured, sports-centered environment. I told my parents, “Let me enjoy myself for two years, and then I’ll find a job,” and somehow managed to convince them. (laughs)
Saved up some money and went on two unforgettable canoe trips in the U.S.
Q: How was the canoe trip?
Yuko: It’s still one of the most vivid memories I have. We were deep in a canyon near the Grand Canyon, starting upstream and paddling down over the course of a week. At night, we camped in places where there were no other people. The whole experience was just pure fun.
Compared to the school camping trip, this was on a completely different scale. Spending so much time in untouched wilderness felt incredibly freeing. I loved being in that kind of raw, natural environment. It gave me a real sense of peace.
In Utah, USA
The Beauty of Mountaineering Lies in Facing Nature Just as It Is
Q: We’ve heard you enjoy everything from multi-day treks with tents to casual day hikes. What first got you hooked on mountaineering?
Yuko: Before I started working, I had climbed a few casual spots like Mt. Takao and Mt. Tsukuba, but I didn’t consider myself a serious hiker. That all changed after I joined Sakaiya Sports.
At the time, there was still a night train called the Azusa. I went on a trip to Mt. Jiigatake in the Northern Alps with about five of our veteran staff members. It was my first time climbing a high-altitude mountain, and I was completely blown away by the view from the summit. That experience opened my eyes to a much deeper connection with the mountains.
A snapshot from a multi-day tent trip with mountain friends, taken along the Toomi Ridge near Mt. Goryu.
Q: What kinds of hikes have you been enjoying recently?
Yuko: Lately, I’ve been doing a lot of backpacking trips with mountain friends, mostly to places like the Northern Alps, the Yatsugatake range, and Mt. Tateyama.
But I also really enjoy low-altitude hikes. I’ll pack my favorite ingredients, cook a relaxed meal at the summit, spend time chatting, sip tea along the way, and then make my way down. Just recently, I went to see the plum blossoms in Yoshino Baigo, hiked up Mt. Mimuro, and ended the day with a bowl of curry udon.
Sukiyaki hot pot cooked on top of Mt. Gozen
Q: What would you say is the appeal of mountaineering?
Yuko: It’s the freedom that comes from moving under your own power, carrying everything you need. Sometimes the mountains reward you with stunning views. Other times, you’re faced with rough weather. But whatever the moment brings, it’s all about meeting nature as it is.
The Challenges Female Hikers Face—Seen Through Customer Conversations
Q: You’ve been helping mostly female customers over decades. What are some of the common challenges they face?
Yuko: One example is someone saying, “I wore warm clothes, but I still felt cold.” When we look into it, we often find that they weren’t wearing a proper quick-drying base layer. Or if someone says they got cold while resting, it often turns out to be sweat chill. A lot of these issues can be solved just by choosing the right base layer or underwear.
Q: There are so many types of base layers on the market these days. And with sweat-chill prevention layers like the Elemental Layer now available too, guiding customers through their options must be tricky, especially since everyone’s body responds differently.
Yuko: It is. Many people don’t fully understand the difference between base layers made from synthetics or wool, which offer moisture-absorbing or quick-drying properties, and the Elemental Layer, which is designed to repel water. When words alone aren’t enough, I use fabric samples and show them how it works right on the spot.
She keeps a hands-on demo kit in the store that lets customers feel the Elemental Layer’s performance directly on their skin. It’s often used during consultations to help explain how it works.
Q: That definitely helps. Seeing it in person makes a big difference. Another good reason to visit the store.
Yuko: Absolutely. Layer compatibility is also really important. Sometimes people say, “It didn’t really work,” but then we find out they were wearing a cotton T-shirt or another low-performance fabric on top. That cancels out what Elemental Layer is supposed to do.
It’s a very functional piece, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. The Regular type, for instance, might be too warm for summer or low-altitude trails. And some people prefer different textures or fits. I try to walk them through all of that, so they leave with something that really suits their needs.
The Elemental Layer Shorts Became a Game-Changer Thanks to a Redesigned Waistband
Q: We heard you’ve used more than ten Elemental Layer pieces over the years. What first got you into using them?
Yuko: When the original Elemental Layer series first launched, which it was called “Skin Mesh” at the time, I wasn’t entirely sure it could actually prevent sweat chill. I often spend a long time at summits or scenic spots, enjoying meals and taking in the view. The longer I stayed, the more I would feel the chill from my own sweat. That’s what made me try the Elemental Layer Short Sleeve for the first time. I still remember the surprise. My T-shirt was damp, but I didn’t feel cold. It really caught me off guard.
Q: You also mentioned it helped with other issues beyond sweat chill.
Yuko: Yes, that’s right. When I used to wear synthetic bras or underwear, I often got skin irritation where the elastic waistband would trap sweat. But once I switched to the Elemental Layer bra and shorts, that stopped. Since moisture doesn’t sit in the waistband area, my skin no longer reacts. Even the cold, clammy feeling from the bra pads disappeared.
Left: Elemental Layer® Cool Bra Tank Top
Right: Elemental Layer® Shorts (High-rise)
Q: The shorts were updated in 2020 to remove the elastic waistband and instead use high-recovery fabric that holds its shape.
Yuko: That change made a big difference for me. Many outdoor shorts still use flat elastic that presses right against your skin, and it can often feel too tight. Once it gets sweaty, it takes a long time to dry and starts to rub, which can be painful.
The new design replaces the elastic with soft, supportive fabric at the waist. It’s much gentler on the skin and holds less moisture, which makes the shorts feel significantly more comfortable. For me, that update was a huge improvement.
The waistband uses a special construction that holds the waist with soft fabric instead of flat elastic.
Q: A lot of people wear Elemental Layer tops, but not everyone knows about the shorts.
Yuko: I think the shorts deserve a lot more attention. That cold feeling you get during a toilet break? It’s completely gone. And because they’re so thin, they layer smoothly under tights, pants, or even under the hip belt of a backpack.
Everyone I’ve recommended them to has loved them. I honestly think the shorts and the top are best used together. They’re a great pair.
The seams are sewn on the outside to reduce skin irritation and minimize chafing when lifting your legs.
Q: Who would you recommend the Elemental Layer Basic Shorts to?
Yuko: I especially recommend them to anyone who tends to have stomach issues when they get chilled around the midsection, or who wants to keep their stomach warm during their period. The fit is completely stress-free, and it really helps reduce that sticky, uncomfortable feeling around the waist caused by sweat. They don’t slip down or shift out of place, they’re just incredibly comfortable. And since they’re so compact, I think it’s smart to pack an extra pair as a backup on longer trips.
How Yuko Chooses Between Elemental Layer Regular, Cool, and Warm
Q: You’ve mentioned that you use all three types of Elemental Layer: Regular, Cool, and Warm. How do you decide which to wear?
Yuko: I go with the Regular for spring and fall hikes, the Cool for summer, and the Warm for winter hikes or snow-covered mountains. As for the shorts, I always stick with the Regular for every season.
Q: Do you have any tips for choosing the right Elemental Layer?
Yuko: The key is to know what kind of function you're looking for and how you want the item to feel when wearing it.
For example:
- If you want firm bust support, I recommend the Cool Fit Bra or the Cool Bra Tank Top.
- If you prefer a more relaxed fit or want to maintain your natural bust shape without compression, the Regular Fit Bra or Regular Bra Tank Top is a better choice.
- If sweat around the underarms is your main concern, the Regular Short Sleeve or long-sleeve types are great options.
Since it really depends on your needs and preferences, we’re always happy to help guide you in the store."
Knowing the “Why” Behind Each Item
Q: You’ve been helping customers for over 25 years. What do you keep in mind when assisting people in the store?
Yuko: I try to have conversations that help uncover what the customer needs and what kind of performance they’re looking for.
A lot of people come in after being invited on a hike by a friend, but they don’t know much about the mountain or the conditions. That’s why I want them to understand the reason behind why they need a certain item before they buy it.
Once you’re in the mountains, you’re responsible for yourself. So it’s much safer to know how your gear works rather than using it blindly.
Understanding things like why highly breathable rain gear is important, or when to remove a fleece before sweating, makes hiking more comfortable. I want customers to be able to make those calls on their own.
Q: It sounds like your style of customer service comes from your own trial and error in the mountains.
Yuko: Absolutely. The less discomfort you have in the mountains, the more fun the experience becomes. That’s why I want people to go out in the most stress-free condition possible. If I can help remove even one source of discomfort, that’s already a win. The less you’re struggling, the more time you have to enjoy the field.
Q: Do you have a final message for female hikers who want to enjoy the mountains more?
Yuko: If you don’t know what to buy, or if you’re struggling with something and don’t know how to solve it, just come talk to us. Sometimes a simple conversation can lead to a great solution.
At LaLa Sakaiya, there’s always at least one female staff member on hand, so feel free to bring up anything, even delicate topics.
[About Yuko Yamagishi]
Yuko Yamagishi joined Sakaiya Sports in 1999 and was working at LaLa Sakaiya at the time of this interview. Her outdoor journey started with camping and canoe trips and now includes everything from multi-day tented hikes to relaxing walks in the low mountains and rogaining adventures. She has been hiking for over 20 years.
[About LaLa Sakaiya]
LaLa Sakaiya opened in 2008 as Sakaiya Sports’ women’s specialty shop. It offers a wide selection of women’s outdoor apparel, accessories, and kids and baby wear.
Note: As of April 2025, LaLa Sakaiya's product lineup is now available at the Sakaiya Sports Wear Building.
Sakaiya Sports
Address: 2-20 Kanda Jimbocho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Hours: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Website: https://www.sakaiya.com
You can also check out the lineup of bras and tank tops recommended by Yuko below: