And clocking in at 5 pounds 14 ounces for the backpack and airbag, the Scott is a reasonably lightweight design and $300 less than the JetForce Pro above. Like the Black Diamond Cirque above, the Patagonia Descensionist is built for long days in the mountains when fast and light is the name of the game. There currently are two types of mechanisms used to inflate airbags: compressed air or gas cartridges and electric fans. Category: AirbagCapacities: 12, 22, 32, 42LWeight: 6 lbs. The two biggest downsides are cost and weight. Best Backcountry Ski Backpack - Ortovox FREE RIDER 24; Budget Option - Arva Calgary 26L; Less Than 25L - Dakine Heli 12L Backpack Like with beacons and ski helmets, every backcountry … Further, the Targhee’s beefy build and thick fabrics are confidence-inspiring and made to last. What we don’t: Canister airbags are less convenient than battery designs. Forsaking just a few liters of capacity, we’ve found that packs like the Patagonia Descensionist 40 and Ortovox Haute Route 40 offer a closer and less ungainly fit. Category: Ski mountaineeringCapacities: 30, 35, 45LWeight: 2 lbs. 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... Smith is a leader in optics, so it comes as little surprise that their snow goggles are some of the best on the market. For more of our top ski gear recommendations, check out the Best Ski Bags. Women’s packs can differ in both shape (namely of the suspension system) and capacity, and often vary in colorway as well. Available in both 32 and 40-liter versions, it features a breathable harness and backpanel that keep you cool on the skin track, and on the boot pack an innovative strap system carries skis or a snowboard in a variety of configurations. That said, simply carrying the equipment is not enough—it’s imperative to practice so that you have that muscle memory if you do encounter a slide. What we like: Relatively affordable and PAS offers class-leading trauma protection. There are important considerations when making a purchase: What is your skill level? And unlike many back-access models, the SnowDrifter also features a wide U-shaped top lid that provides alternate entry to the main compartment, making gear retrieval incredibly convenient. These small ski backpacks are perfect for trips into the side country that are served by chairlifts, helicopter, or snowcats. Ski backpacks range from lightweight 2-pound models to heavy airbag-equipped bags like the Black Diamond JetForce Pro which clocks in at 6.5 pounds. And finally, the Lite’s 100-denier pack body is notably thin for use around chairlifts or sharp ski equipment (the SnowDrifter above features a more durable 420D nylon). Similar to the SnowDrifter 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 SnowDrifter has a compartment for smaller items, but the fleece is a nice touch). Ski backpacks come in a range of sizes, from compact 20-liter packs for sidecountry or heli-accessed skiing to large 40- to 50-liter packs for overnight trips and technical ski mountaineering. External Attachment Points Choosing the right ski jacket is all about managing the conditions that you might encounter on the mountain. Choosing a backpack with an avalanche safety mechanism can be a big step toward ensuring your personal safety before even leaving home. And with a redesigned backpanel and hipbelt in the most recent (winter 2020-2021) update, the Haute Route is up for the task and carries a heavy load better than most. But the Light Protection is an attractive option nevertheless that is significantly more affordable and over a pound lighter. We had a few gripes about the first iteration of the SnowDrifter, but Patagonia made some notable improvements with the latest update (last season). Arc’teryx’s level of quality and craftsmanship is hard to match, but the Black Diamond Cirque and Patagonia Descensionist packs above have better feature sets, are similarly well-built, and much cheaper.See the Arc'teryx Alpha SK 32. From our picks above, the Black Diamond JetForce Pro and Scott Patrol E1 feature this tech, although they’re also the priciest packs on the list. Airbag  This bag is used for riding in non-glaciated terrain and in my role as a cat ski … Whereas the JetForce Pro above is powered by a battery-operated fan, the Light uses a canister filled with compressed air to inflate the airbag. If cross-country skiing makes you think of kicking lazy laps across your local golf course, it's time to change your image of the sport. What do you give up by going with the more affordable Scott Patrol E1? As the popularity of backcountry skiing continues to increase and people are going for bigger days farther from towns or roads, weight savings has become a growing consideration. 13.5 oz.What we like: Durable, comfortable, and fully featured; long side zip for secondary access to the main compartment.What we don’t: Heavier than the Black Diamond Cirque and no helmet carry. Backcountry Ski Backpacks Skip to Main Content The backpacks listed here are either unisex or men’s-specific models, but many manufacturers make ski backpacks in a women’s version as well (when applicable, the women’s model will be linked directly below the pack's write-up). Specs. Plus, some of those unisex skiing backpacks offer two sizes (small/medium and medium/large) instead of a one-size-fits-all approach. For those focused on moving quickly on the skin track or who don’t want to be weighed down on the descent, a lightweight pack—along with lightweight gear both inside and underfoot—should be a top priority. Alternatively, when skiing laps in our local backcountry bowl, we prefer a pack with a U-shaped, backpanel zip (like that of the Osprey Soelden 32 or Black Diamond Dawn Patrol) that allows us to see all our gear and use our pack as an ad hoc staging area during transitions. Resort SKI TOURING PACKS. Read more about us. As we’ve come to expect from Patagonia, the bag is durable, comfortable, and offers functional organization. With gear prices as they are and relatively few people interested in compiling a large quiver of different options, versatility in touring packs is also key. The AvaLung No matter the design, the goal is to make your rescue equipment easily accessible. This depends on the specific kinds of skiing you enjoy most—skinning up a sunny ridgeline in the North Cascades is far different than bracing... 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. 3 oz.What we like: Sleek design and impressively light. We don’t feature any AvaLung-equipped packs in this article, but we do list a couple that are compatible with the device, including the Black Diamond Dawn Patrol and Cirque. All in all, the SnowDrifter 30L is a well-made and versatile pack for off-piste and light ski mountaineering missions, and Patagonia also makes a 20-liter version for days at the resort (or even heli/cat skiing when your pack is lighter). … The rest of the design is equally ski-ready with glove-friendly zipper pulls, an interior compartment for snacks or rescue tools, and external ski straps for carrying skis (although we wouldn’t recommend using these over long distances due to the pack’s small and lightweight build). We always recommend taking an avalanche course (like AIARE Level 1) before venturing into the backcountry. Weight: 1 lb. When you purchase select backpacking packs on Osprey.com, you can receive a professional fit from a qualifying local gear shop. Backcountry Touring is skiing and riding away from ski resorts. 8.6 oz.What we like: Great fit, comfortable suspension, and tons of organization.What we don’t: Doesn’t come in a 40-liter capacity for longer tours. When deciding on a pack, think about how often you’ll need to access gear throughout the day and in what sort of environments. The Porter outpaces other backcountry skiing backpacks, unlocking untouched powder stashes at the end of marathon approaches. Backcountry Access Float 42. However, some people prefer to add additional safety measures, such as an avalanche airbag system. The 32-liter version sports an impressive array of straps and compartments for your technical gear: attachment points for snowshoes, snowboards, and skis (both A-frame and diagonal), a crampon-fastening slat in the fabric, rope-carrying and ice-axe straps, a hiking pole attachment and fixed helmet net, and even a pocket for holding a map. If you’ve ever tried to use your hydration reservoir in the winter, you’ve probably realized that freezing temperatures can quickly render your bladder worthless. The Black Diamond JetForce Pro above is our favorite electric airbag pack this year, but Scott’s impressive Patrol E1 is a solid runner-up. Your pack’s load will likely change throughout a day of skiing as you swap layers and transition. That said, we like what Ortovox did with the Ascent, and the ability to practice without the canister might be the tipping point for many.See the Ortovox Ascent 30  See the Women's Ortovox Ascent 28 S. Category: ResortCapacity: 12LWeight: 1 lb. It’s worth noting that Osprey has also released an airbag variation of the Soelden, the Pro 32, which includes the same Alpride E1 system as the Scott Patrol above. There are four different types of avalanche airbag systems: sealed nitrogen cylinders, atmospheric air cylinders (refillable), CO2 cylinders (disposable), rechargeable lithium battery systems that operate a jet fan. And the airbag offers a little less coverage than the PAS system on Mammut’s Light Protection above. There are ski backpacks, and then there are airbag-equipped ski backpacks. Most backcountry packs have a secure place to keep your snow shovel and probe and straps for attaching skis, a snowboard … Finally, if you like the design but don’t plan to get the airbag, Dakine makes a non-RAS Poacher 32 that ditches the airbag pocket and saves you about $50 (with a slight drop in capacity).See the Dakine Poacher RAS 36L. Category: Ski mountaineering/day touringCapacity: 32, 40LWeight: 2 lbs. HYDRATION SYSTEM: Hydration system compatible, SKI-CARRY OPTIONS: Vertical (center or sides) and diagonal ski-carry systems, PROS: Helmet holder, avalanche gear storage and goggle pocket, sitting mat, strong zippers, CONS: Pack sits flat against the back so not great for bulky items, AVALANCHE AIRBAG SYSTEM: Float airbag system deployed via compressed air cylinder, left or right trigger mount, SKI-CARRY OPTIONS: Diagonal ski-carry system, PROS: Lightweight, great value for an airbag pack, integration for BC Link radios, fleece goggle pocket, helmet sling, shovel and probe sleeves, CONS: One size only, small safety gear pocket, HYDRATION SYSTEM: Insulated hydration system compatible, SKI-CARRY OPTIONS: Diagonal and A-frame ski-carry options, PROS: Comfortable for all day skiing, helmet compartment, axe loop, avalanche gear pocket, great value, unisex only but two sizes for different body types (small/medium and medium/large), CONS: Avalanche safety pocket takes up too much room, SKI-CARRY OPTIONS: Diagonal and A-frame ski-carry systems, PROS: Helmet pouch, avalanche gear storage and goggle pocket, axe loops, dry pocket access, removable top pocket, great value, unisex only but two sizes for different body types (small/medium and medium large), PROS: Fleece lined goggle pocket, avalanche whistle, durable, easy to attach helmet and poles, lightweight (1.8 pounds), PROS: Lightweight, great value for an airbag pack, integration for BC Link radios, fleece goggle pocket, helmet sling, shovel and probe sleeves, unisex only but two sizes for different body types (small/medium and medium/large), AVALANCHE AIRBAG SYSTEM: Removable airbag system with refillable cartridge sold separately, PROS: Helmet compartment, axe loop; avalanche gear pocket, ergonomic shoulder straps, fleece-line goggle compartment, TSA friendly so you can fly with empty air canister and refill canister at destination, CONS: No waist belt pockets, airbag system takes up space. 13 oz.What we like: A roll-top expands to fit 10L of extra space.What we don’t: Not proven and could be too feature-rich for some. Every year, millions of skiers flock to the slopes to bask in the epic mountain terrain, abundant snowfall, and claimed 300+ days of sunshine (we haven’t counted, but that seems... Tasked with transmitting your location and helping you search for buried victims, an avalanche beacon (also called a transceiver) is an essential piece of gear for backcountry exploration. 100% Satisfaction Guarantee But what really sets the Poacher RAS apart is its compatibility with Mammut’s Removable Airbag System 3.0. The 45-liter capacity with removeable lid also gives you a bit more room for customization, making it a versatile choice for those looking for a quiver-of-one pack. On the other hand, many of the lightweight options above (like the Black Diamond Cirque and Arc’teryx Alpha SK) sacrifice support to shave weight, which can make skinning and bootpacking rather arduous. They also place a high priority on comfort (over the weight-savings of ski mountaineering designs), with robust backpanels and nicely padded hipbelt and shoulder straps. The Pro 34+ clocks in a bit heavier than other lightweight ski mountaineering packs here, but the extra ounces could be worth it for the expandable design and Deuter’s reliable comfort and fit. Second, you miss out on the convenient backpanel access that we value with the SnowDrifter above. Size-wise, 42 liters is great for technical days or short overnights, but it can feel a bit ungainly when skiing downhill (resort-goers and heli or cat skiers may prefer the smaller 26-liter model). Here, at The Adventure Junkies, we want to help you narrow down your choices when selecting the best ski backpacks. Day Touring  The Patrol features an Alpride E1 airbag that—similar to the JetForce Pro—is fully electric and rechargeable via USB (it can also be charged by AA batteries in the field). For example, the most affordable design in our airbag pack round-up is the BCA Float 22L 2.0 at $735, and the fan-equipped Black Diamond JetForce Pro comes in at a whopping $1,400. Capacities: 18, 25L. First and foremost, while canister airbags are generally lighter and less expensive than electric systems, they can only be deployed once. The Cirque includes all the necessary trimmings for technical missions including two easily deployable ice-axe loops, diagonal or A-frame ski-carry straps, a helmet flap, and a rope strap under the top lid. All that said, packs with compression straps or other external straps generally aren’t ideal for resort skiers, as they’re more likely to get caught on the chairlift. Many new skiers will use a hydration pack, climbing pack, or hiking daypack for in-bounds days or ski touring. Further, it’s not rare to find a pack that is is unable to haul a snowboard (the Black Diamond Cirque, for example). Ski mountaineering packs will often range from 35-45 liters to accommodate technical or overnight gear. Not to mention, the streamlined design means that you can get on and off the lift and down the slopes without feeling weighted down by a heavy and bulky pack. Some can be used for resort skiing, simply storing extra gloves and a snack. 8 oz.What we like: All you really need for a day at the resort.What we don’t: 12-liter capacity is fairly limiting for other uses. For those who want to open their pack on the chairlift, a top zip is great for getting at snacks, water, or a goggle wipe. Below are our top ski backpack picks for 2020-2021, including options for day touring and resort skiing, ski mountaineering missions, and those equipped with airbags. With only 12 liters of capacity, you won’t be going very far from the car or lodge with the CamelBak Powderhound, but we think it’s a great companion for resort skiers who like to stay hydrated throughout the day. If you’re willing to shoulder a bit more weight, the Gregory Targhee is one of the most comfortable and fully featured options on this list. The Cirque has earned its place as our top pick for ski mountaineering objectives, but it does have room for improvement. 10 oz.What we like: Simple, easy-to-use design and functional organization.What we don’t: Unable to accommodate oversized loads. Thanks to a considerable rise in backcountry adventuring of late, splitboarding is having a moment. The hip belts may be contoured for a woman’s body more so than for their male-specific counterparts. For resort skiing, sidecountry exploration, and day tours, the Patagonia SnowDrifter 30L is an impressively well-designed pack that quickly and easily transitions between the skin track or sitting on a chairlift to the downhill. Ski mountaineering—not to be confused with skimo racing—is a discipline of skiing that involves venturing into more technical, mountainous terrain. ... Hyperlite Mountain Gear 2400 Southwest 40L Backpack. However, it’s important to remember that whenever you ski, you’re assuming some level of risk. 5 5 out of 5 stars from 1 reviews 5 1. The two most common, not to mention useful, features include dedicated compartments for avalanche safety gear, and special attachment systems for skis … 5.7 oz. Compared to canister airbags, an electric airbag is more convenient and doesn’t require you to refill your canister each time you pull the trigger (great for practice deployment). We love the Cirque’s low weight and streamlined build, but those looking for more features or a plusher suspension will be better served by packs like the Patagonia Descensionist or Gregory Targhee below. This redesign makes the Freerider Pro a highly versatile pack that is compact and streamlined for casual day tours yet still able to accommodate a rope, harness, and hardware for more technical missions. 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