The SnowDrifter goes head to head with our top-ranked Black Diamond Dawn Patrol, but we give the edge to the Dawn Patrol for a few reasons. Second, while the Patagonia is available in one capacity (30L) and two sizes, the Black Diamond is offered in three distinct capacities (15, 25, and 32L), each of which comes in two sizes. After testing the Freerider Pro all winter, we have just a few minor nitpicks: The front pocket is a bit of a squeeze for a pair of skins (especially a bulky nylon model like BDs Ascension), and you have to unbuckle the shoulder straps to fully unzip the backpanel, which is an extra step compared to other designs here. But for serious skiers who want the safety of an airbag pack without the added heft and bulk, the JetForce UL is an enticing solution.See the Black Diamond JetForce UL 26. In the end, its important to identify your priorities and understand that there will be tradeoffs with any pack you choose. But theres no denying the savings (the Ortovox is almost $600 cheaper than the JetForce Pro above), and the Avabag addresses one of our primary complaints about canister systems: the inability to practice deployment. Most ski backpacks feature at least one pocket in addition to the main compartment and avalanche gear compartment. This bag is very easy to adjust and can be carried at the level of the reeds and also a chest strap. 0000048388 00000 n Some, like the Osprey Soelden, feature a dedicated zip pocket, while others, like the Black Diamond Cirque 45, have a pouch in the main compartment. Further, unlike compressed air, gas cartridges cannot be refilled and will run you about $50 per set. For experienced skiers and snowboarders venturing into avalanche terrain, an airbag pack can provide an extra boost in safety. But in our experience, the sweet spot for most skiers is in the 30- to 40-liter range, which is where the majority of the picks above fall. That said, ski mountaineers will appreciate the convenience of dedicated slots and systems for their ice tools, helmets, and ropes, like those found on the Gregory Targhee 45. However, we highly recommend that those venturing into the backcountry purchase a ski-specific pack for one main reason: safety. When purchasing a pack, make sure the compartment is large enough to fit your gear and that its easy to access regardless of what you might strap onto the outside.Accessory Pockets The Patrol features an Alpride E1 airbag thatsimilar to the JetForce Prois fully electric and rechargeable via USB (it can also be charged by AA batteries in the field). We'll answer in the meantime! Similar to the Dawn Patrol above, the Mission Pro features a dedicated avalanche-gear pocket and padded hipbelt and shoulder straps, and tacks on a fleece-lined goggle pocket (the Dawn Patrol has a compartment for smaller items, but the fleece is a nice touch). 0000028121 00000 n For starters, the Mission Pro isnt as durable as the $79-pricier Patagonia SnowDrifter below, and you lose the convenience of a full backpanel zipper. These straps are also especially helpful for streamlining larger-capacity bags. In short, youd be hard-pressed to find another design with such an impressive combination of features, making the Dawn Patrol 32 our favorite ski pack of 2022. Most importantly, like most non-electric designs (excluding the Ortovox above), you only get one airbag deployment per pull. These may be customized through analysis of email usage and my purchasing behaviour. The backpacks listed here are either unisex or mens-specific models, but many manufacturers make ski backpacks in a womens version as well (when applicable, the womens model will be linked directly below the pack's write-up). 0000002710 00000 n 4.6 oz.What we like: A burly workhorse with a supportive frame and great organization.What we dont: Heavy and only sold in one size. Additionally, the lack of external straps means you cant compress a half-full pack or carry skis in an A-frame configuration (although the streamlined exterior wont get caught on the chairlift). To start, you get a range of carry options, including A-frame, diagonal, and a vertical snowboard set-up. 8 oz.What we like: All you need for a day at the resort.What we dont: 12-liter capacity is fairly limiting for other uses. The Targhee sports a whopping six external pockets, as well as an insulated hydration sleeve, helmet-carry system, and convenient backpanel access to the main compartment. In the end, those that stick exclusively to lift-accessed terrain will benefit from a more streamlined design like the Powderhound 12. Most airbag packs fall in the 5- to 7-pound range and are fairly bulky and heavy for using day in and day out. Category: Day touring/ski mountaineeringCapacity: 22LWeight: 1 lb. Many factors contribute to a packs overall comfort, including the shape and size, beefiness of the suspension, and the amount of adjustment the pack offers. The 18-liter version of the Nirvana is out of stock at the time of publishing, but Mammut also offers the pack in 15, 25, 30, and 35-liter capacities, the latter of which comes in dedicated mens and womens versions.See the Mammut Nirvana 18. 4 oz.What we like: A streamlined pack that sports all the necessary features for big missions.What we dont: Doesnt carry heavy loads well; no snowboard carry. Backcountry Access is one of the most trusted names in backcountry ski gear and a go-to source for everything from avalanche transceivers and probes to two-way radios. The 45-liter capacity with removable lid also gives you a bit more room for customization, making it a versatile choice for those looking for a quiver-of-one pack. 6 oz.Capacity: 26LWhat we like: Ultralight airbag pack that doesnt compromise too much in capacity and features.What we dont: One deployment per pull and each pull will cost you $55; not travel-friendly. 0000028544 00000 n With the ability to separate your board on the way up and secure the halves together for a true snowboarding experience on the way down With a rise in backcountry adventuring of late, avalanche airbag packs have become increasingly popular for the added safety they can provide in the event of a slide. Thought to ask you guys first if anyone is using it for something else that I might find useful? No risk of losing your helmet. Again, compared to canister airbags, the battery design means you get unlimited practice deployments (only battery life limits you), dont have to bother with refilling your compressed air canisters, and theres no hassle in terms of air travel. ---, Press J to jump to the feed. You also get an insulated sleeve and shoulder strap for your hydration system, which is a nice detail that few ski-specific packs include (and crucial for cold-weather water-reservoir use). Ski mountaineeringnot to be confused with skimo racingis a discipline of skiing that involves venturing into more technical, mountainous terrain. 10 oz.What we like: Very convenient organization for day tours.What we dont: Doesnt fare well when overloaded; no women's-specific version. Cordura nylon makes for a fairly rugged exterior, and we love the metal buckle on the hipbelt, which is both durable and stylish. See the Black Diamond Cirque 45. Many ski packsand especially those tailored to ski mountaineeringare made with various external attachment points, designed specifically for convenient storage of ice tools, poles, crampons, rope, and a ski helmet. What are the downsides of the Poacher RAS? On the other hand, when weighed down with 40+ liters of gear on the skin track, youll be thankful to have a robust backpanel (packs like the Gregory Targhee 45even incorporate an internal wire frame, which offers a lot of extra support for hauling heavy loads), shoulder straps, hipbelt, and features like load lifters that allow you to dial in fit. We havent yet had a chance to test the Rush SK (well update this write-up when we do), but we still have some initial concerns about the design. I've had a look and rethreading the elastic cord seems to be perfectly doable should I ever want to use it in the future. 0000028631 00000 n First and foremost, stock issues are common with the Patagonia, making it a tough pack to track down even in the best of times (Covid notwithstanding). At $180, we hesitate to recommend the Stash over the similarly premium yet more affordable designs above, but its nevertheless a solid ski pack that will last you multiple seasons of use.See the Backcountry Access Stash 30. You also get an avy tool compartment with helpful sleeves for separating safety gear, a wide U-shaped zipper at the top for secondary main compartment access, and external helmet carry. What you will appreciate is that it is compartmentalized to put your things in order to find everything in its place. Then you can get out and enjoy the fresh air. Category: Ski mountaineering/day touringCapacity: 34 + 10LWeight: 2 lbs. We are here for you Mon-Fri 09:00-17:00. At $190, its pricier than the competition, but the design will appeal to experienced skiers looking to streamline their load.See the Black Crows Dorsa 27. Also: a raincover to protect the bag in case of bad weather and to keep your belongings dry. With its fairly limited capacity, the Nirvana 18 falls short as a dedicated day touring pack, but its a nice option for resort skiers that dip into the sidecountry from time to time. Germany-based Deuter is best known for their hiking and backpacking designs, but their Freerider series of ski packs shouldnt be overlooked. A good place to start: Are you more focused on the uphill or downhill? Despite the Free Riders minimalist build, organization is high with both backpanel and top access to the main compartment, along with a dedicated safety tools pocket. For a closer look at the market, see our article on the best avalanche airbag packs. And clocking in at 5 pounds 14 ounces for the backpack and airbag, the Scott is a reasonably lightweight design and $400 less than the JetForce Pro above. Like any purpose-built design the Cirque has its fair share of tradeoffs, but skiers with a need for speed will be hard-pressed to find a better-suited pack.See the Black Diamond Cirque 22 Vest. Most backcountry skiers and riders will appreciate a pack in the 25- to 35-liter range, which is a just-right capacity for accommodating your food and water, extra layers, avy tools, helmet (on the uphill), and skins (but not quite enough for overnight gear or technical equipment like a rope and harness). On the other hand, many of the lightweight options above (like the Arc'teryx Rush SK 32) sacrifice support to shave weight, which can make skinning and bootpacking rather arduous. 0000002003 00000 n Category: Day touringCapacities: 18, 26, 32, 36LWeight: 4 lbs. Further, like the Cirque above, the Arcteryxs avy tool compartment is hidden inside the main compartment, meaning youll have to undo the top to fully access your safety gear (the side access is fairly limited). Importantly, the pack also holds its shape well when empty, which is a nice bonus for staying organized during transitions. But while the packs 22- and 28-liter sizes can accommodate the essentials for cat- or heli-accessed terrain, youll likely want a bit more capacity on human-powered days. But as an affordable electric alternative (relatively speaking) thats only $190 more than the Ortovox Ascent Avabag above, the Scott Patrol E1 is a nice option thats well-loved by manyRead in-depth reviewSee the Scott Patrol E1 30. Your packs load will likely change throughout a day of skiing as you swap layers and transition. Ski mountaineering objectives often require big-mileage days and an assortment of technical gear. Finally, its only offered in one size, while many packs (like the Osprey and Deuter options above) come in both mens and womens sizing. 3.2 oz.What we like: Classy looks, streamlined build, and great access to the main compartment.What we dont: Expensive and lacks organizational features. Further, the Targhees beefy build and thick fabrics are confidence-inspiring and made to last. 0000041008 00000 n At only a pound and a half, the 2.0 is by far the lightest airbag unit available, and its simple mechanical (read: non-electric) design makes it durable and easy to maintain. To account for the added gear and technicality, ski mountaineering packs offer a bump in performance in more streamlined packages to shave crucial weight. At Alpinstore.com, cookies make it possible to facilitate the use of the site, to compile traffic and navigation statistics, to improve its performance and its security. Are you missing items from a previous visit? In 2022, the market is absolutely flooded with options, ranging from ultralight tech Another ski season is upon us, and to help navigate the confusing online environment, we have put together a list of our favorite websites for buying ski gear. But its hard to beat the carrying comfort of the Soelden, which features the added support of a wire frame. 0000002822 00000 n I. Further, because the top load strap doubles as the diagonal ski carry strap, weve found it difficult to max out the capacity while carrying our skis diagonally (and theres no option for carrying a snowboard). All of the packs in this article are designed with external straps for attaching skis (or often a snowboard) to the outside. Registration only takes effect after receipt of my confirmation; it is possible to unsubscribe at any time. What are the downsides of the JetForce ULs ultralight build? Ow8v[UWO`@.;z&RY&&M$WL5+&`[VA3)xE[ZwK.,X-^pCp.m:4 @IK RL0v0 @: 0000057052 00000 n 0000029210 00000 n Second, the Patagonia is built with more durable materials (420D vs. the Ospreys 210D) and does a better job holding its shape when half full. That's what I'm doing now. Their Stash 30 joins the ranks of packs like the BD Dawn Patrol, Osprey Soelden, and Patagonia SnowDrifter above as a functional daily driver that places a high priority on organization. Finally, speed-focused skiers and endurance athletes will benefit from the on-the-go access of a vest-style design like the Black Diamond Cirque 22. You might find a use for it yourself. 0000002387 00000 n 0000027028 00000 n Made with snowboarders in mind, the Mission Pro offers vertical board carry (skis are strapped in diagonally) and can easily double as a skateboard pack too. Whats more, for $40 less than the Black Diamond Cirque above you get more durable fabrics, significantly more organization (including backpanel access and a fleece-lined goggle pocket), and the choice between mens and womens sizes. Ski mountaineers might encounter glaciers, ice, steep snow, and even dry trail along their route, and missions can often be multiple days long. Many new skiers will use a hydration pack, climbing pack, or hiking daypack for in-bounds days or ski touring. Further, while the Cirque Vests on-the-go access will be a game-changer for some, most casual users will want the convenience of standard features like a full-zip backpanel or fleece-lined goggle pocket instead. Itll cost you a pretty penny (and with an average lifespan of 5 years, youll have to ask yourself if its worth it), but electric airbag designs are the wave of the future, and Black Diamonds JetForce Pro is far and away the best yet. And perhaps most notably, Arcteryx managed to pull it off for an impressively low 15.7 ounces, making the Rush SK the lightest pack on our list at this capacity. Payment types in the Breuninger online shop. Black Diamonds relatively new Cirque 22 meets this style head-on, combining the on-the-go ethos of a running vest with all the storage and attachment points you need for a day of skiing.
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