How to choose a ski backpack. Choosing the right snowboard backpack

The backpack has become a part of a person's life. These are the kind of shoulder bags people wear different ages. Young people buy them for study and work, and for hiking. For descents and ascents to mountain peaks, and skiing on unorganized slopes, you need a ski backpack.

For skiers, a bag is an essential piece of equipment. It differs from ordinary travel bags by having fasteners for winter vehicles and integrated back protection. Changes of clothes and necessary equipment are placed in it. The skier should not feel any discomfort when running.

A skier's backpack should fit snugly to the body, not dangle or move. To do this, it is equipped with a reliable suspension with chest relief and a wide hip belt.

The requirements for the backpack are:

• strength and lightness of the material;
• compactness;
• the presence of pockets, reliable, durable mounts for skis and other equipment;
• the ability to easily get to the desired department;
• be compatible with the drinking water system.

How to choose a ski backpack?

Before choosing a backpack, you need to think carefully. Bags designed for different sizes are available for sale:

• 10-20 l - if delivery to the place of descent is provided;
• 20-35 l - if overnight stays are not planned in the mountains;
• 35-55 l - for climbing to peaks not equipped with cable cars, descending from them, planned overnight stays in huts;
• 60-70 l - for climbers making long treks and spending the night in tents.

The backpack must be ergonomic and match the person’s figure and height. It is necessary to measure the distance from the waist to the shoulders. Each manufacturer offers their own sizing recommendations. They are shown in diagrams and tables.

• XS - 40 cm;
• S - 40-45 cm;
• V - 45-50 cm;
• L - 50 cm or more.

Those who love thrills and extreme sports choose backpacks for freeride. They have built-in protection that increases your chances of surviving an avalanche.

It contains:

1. Airbag. Protects the freerider's neck, freeing up space, improving breathing under the snow.
2. "Avalung" system. It is a tube. When you inhale and exhale, carbon dioxide comes out not near the face of the person caught in the avalanche, but in the lower right part of the backpack.

When choosing, all criteria are taken into account.

Types of ski bags

The assortment offered by the market makes it somewhat difficult to choose. Available for sale the following types backpacks:

For skiing on prepared slopes

If you plan to ride on a prepared trail, it makes no sense to purchase a large backpack. It is needed to put small things in it: keys, smartphone, sandwich, bottle of water. Some skiers and snowboarders buy a backpack with a capacity of up to 20 liters. But a special backpack is much more convenient. It is equipped with a carrying system and has an ergonomic fit.

For off-piste and ski touring

Athletes skiing on free areas must climb into the mountains. They need to have the necessary things, enough food, drinking water, medicines, warm clothes.

The backpack must have:

1. Rigid back with straps, belt, tight fit. Carrying the load will be easier, since the main load is transferred to the hips.
2. A system for carrying skis or snowboards. Pay attention to the size of the loops, the length of the slings, convenient fixation of equipment, and the reliability of the system.
3. Have additional mounts for other types of equipment: helmet, trekking pole.

Typically, a volume of 20-30 liters is enough to accommodate everything you need.

Important! Some routes go high in the mountains, have difficult sections and difficult descents. On the way, riders encounter steep slopes and glaciers, which requires them to carry climbing equipment. It is recommended to buy a backpack with loops and slings.

Routes designed for long periods of time have also been developed. Skiers and snowboarders set up camp and set up tents, which requires purchasing backpacks with a volume of 35 to 45 liters. These are universal products used by climbers and ski touring enthusiasts. They should be well tightened using compression straps.

Avalanche backpacks

The possibility of encountering an avalanche always exists. Special avalanche backpacks are available for sale. Its design has enough compartments for uniforms and medicines. It is important to get to it as quickly as possible. When purchasing, you need to carefully check how convenient this compartment is to use and whether there is enough space for a probe and a shovel. This type of backpack is equipped with a loop that goes around the hips and inflatable cylinders. Thanks to them, the rider remains as close as possible to the surface of the snow mass, which reduces the time it takes to search for a person caught in an avalanche. Such backpacks have proven their effectiveness. They are bought by athletes who have a high risk of encountering an avalanche.

What materials are mountain backpacks made from?

A backpack for skiers is made of durable, reliable fabric that can withstand heavy loads and keep things safe.

Manufacturers use the following types of materials:

1. Cordura. The fabric was invented in America. They used it for sewing army clothing and equipment. It is a polyamide fabric consisting of twisted and cut fibers. The material is highly resistant to abrasion and tearing. The fabric is coated with water-repellent impregnation.
2. Oxford. Thin, lightweight fabric resembling appearance matting Feature: smooth surface, resistance to high and low temperatures, waterproof.
3. Polyester. Frost-resistant, lightweight, thin fabric. Does not deform under the influence of sunlight, does not crumble or stretch.

What is the difference between a ski backpack and a regular sports backpack?

A backpack for alpine skis differs from a regular sports model. It is equipped with a ventilated, moisture-proof compartment for storing uniforms. This design provides quick access to it.

Attention! Skiing is dangerous and risky.

Skiers often fall. Therefore, backpacks have a special frame. As a result, the risk of spinal injury is minimized.

Systems for carrying skis on a backpack

Snowboards are fixed vertically or horizontally. In the first case, fastening is carried out with two slings. They are located on the front side of the product. This method is used often. Horizontal fixation is carried out using a flap pocket. It is located on the back of the backpack. This method is inconvenient, since it is difficult for a person to turn around on the trail due to the presence of obstacles.

Skis are also attached in two ways:

1. A little house. The skis fit tightly and are located close to the human body. The load is distributed evenly, the front panel of the bag is open. Insert the skis into the loops located on the side mounts one by one. For better fixation, socks are pulled together.
2. Diagonally. The advantage of this method is the speed and ease of installation. Disadvantage - the front panel of the backpack is completely closed, which makes it difficult to access inner part bags. Increased stress is placed on the shoulders.

Which mounting method to choose is up to each individual to decide. The main thing is that the athlete is comfortable, and that balance is maintained during descent and ascent.

Useful additional options

Additional features make traveling along the route more comfortable.

1. Helmet mounts. It is much more convenient to move without it. Fastening is carried out using an elastic mesh.
2. Built-in back protection. For this purpose, foam material of different densities is used, which creates additional protection in case of a fall.
3. Access from the back. The front panel is usually covered with equipment, blocking access to the inside of the bag. The available lock on the back allows you to carefully get the necessary things.
4. Waist pockets. It is inconvenient to remove the backpack while moving. There is a need to get small things: nuts, a sandwich, a chocolate bar, a map, a flashlight. They are placed in pockets.
5. Compartments for the drinking system. You can drink without stopping and without removing your shoulder bag.

Some models of ski backpacks with back protection have a modular design. Unnecessary elements can be easily removed.

Rating of the best backpacks for alpine skiing

Many companies are involved in the production of ski equipment. According to consumers, the following products are the best:

1. Deuter Freerider. A German company that creates reliable backpacks made from durable fabrics. They have compartments for equipment, medicines, various small items, a system for carrying vehicles, and a retaining net for headgear. A stiff back creates comfortable conditions during cargo transfer. The tight fit does not cause discomfort while moving.
2. Pieps. Austrian manufacturer. The models have avalanche sensors, compartments for uniforms, and a moisture-proof pocket where documents and mobile devices are placed. If necessary, fasteners are removed. With the help of the available side straps, the backpack takes a more stable position on the back.
3. Dakine Heli Pro. A model in high demand among skiers and snowboarders. It is universal. The snowboard is fixed vertically, the skis diagonally. There are compartments for glasses, small items, and a laptop. The products are equipped with a hydraulic system and a soft waist belt.

Alpine skiing is quite difficult and sometimes dangerous hobby, therefore, it requires not only sports training, but also high-quality equipment. In high altitude conditions and unequipped routes, it is very problematic to transport equipment and necessary household items. Various accessories and special accessories have been developed to help athletes. But the main accessory is, of course, a ski backpack - a necessary attribute for any climber, simple tourist and just a lover of ski slopes. In order to choose it correctly, it is necessary to start from the functions that it will perform.

Functions of backpacks

Despite their apparent simplicity, ski backpacks perform many tasks and make it easier for a skier to move through hard-to-reach areas. The important functions of the products are:

Carrying snowboards and ski kits. Transportation sports equipment is the main function of backpacks. To do this, their design includes various fastenings, holding straps and durable loops, the design of which allows them to be easily adjusted to any set and size of equipment.

Transportation of household items. Internal compartments make it possible to transport additional items: glasses, shovel, gloves, beacons, food and other small accessories. Many pockets and compartments help the tourist to distribute everything in its place, secure fragile things, ensuring their safety during shocks and falls.

How to choose

Buying a ski backpack is not in a hurry. This is a very responsible matter, since it is necessary to take into account a number of certain requirements.

The choice of model depends on the specific direction in which it will be used. The most important criteria when choosing a model are:

• strength and lightness of the body
• volume and capacity
• Convenience of hinges and fasteners
• availability of protective devices

Optimal fastening elements allow you to carry both skis and snowboards.

It must be remembered that in mountainous areas there are often situations when the backpack needs to be opened very quickly. Therefore, it is better to give preference to those models that open not only from the top, but from the sides and bottom. There is also another important factor - convenience. Some backpacks are equipped with anatomical inserts to prevent pressure on the wearer's back.

A good backpack means your healthy back and a thousand conveniences.

A person needs a backpack on a slope in order to take with him a bunch of all sorts of necessary little things: screwdrivers, scrapers, edge cutter, first aid kit, etc.

Is it possible to ride with a regular backpack? Yes, you can if it's convenient for you. For those who are tired of their city backpack falling down and rising when they fall, this article about snowboard backpacks is intended.

The higher the mountains, the more important the role of the backpack becomes. During daytime dressage, the backpack contains food and a thermos with tea or a bottle of water, a spare balaclava and mittens, a warm fleece, as well as avalanche equipment, an ice ax, and walkie-talkies. Professional freeride backpacks are equipped with a special cushion that the rider can activate if caught in an avalanche. When inflated, it acts as a life jacket and prevents the rider from drowning under the snow.

The main difference between a snowboard backpack and a regular backpack is a comfortable fit on the back and proper distribution loads so that your burden does not interfere with your ride. Manufacturers of snowboarding backpacks create entire systems that ensure comfortable wearing of a backpack, but this does not mean that any backpack will be comfortable for you, so you definitely need to try it on.

Snowboard backpacks usually have not only shoulder straps, but also top (chest) and bottom (waist) straps. The waist belt should be strong and reliable, with a high-quality fastener. It is needed in order to correctly distribute the load between the belt and shoulders.

Durability is another important criterion for a good backpack. Falls, weight and other loads should not cause the backpack to rupture. Therefore, the material from which snowboard backpacks are made practically does not tear, is resistant to the stress of riding and is treated with a special water-repellent impregnation. They also use additional moisture protection for the seams.

The mount for the snowdub or ski itself plays a significant role. Dakine has several options for attaching the board to the backpack, the most common of which is vertical - two transverse straps that hold the board under the mount. When carried horizontally, the snowboard is placed in a specially folding mount on the back of the backpack. The vertical method of carrying is universal and can be used almost always. However, when moving through deep powder, you are better off choosing a backpack with a horizontal mount. Carrying a snowboard on a backpack is much more convenient, because you correctly distribute the load and free up your hands.

The straps holding the snowboard must be strong; it is good if the inside is covered with a special rubberized fabric that is resistant to the sharp edges of the board.

Often back protection is built into such a backpack, which, however, does not replace conventional protection. The back protection is a design made of lightweight and durable materials that are sewn into the back of the backpack. It saves you from falling on your back on objects lying in your backpack. Sometimes special aluminum ribs are used, which are inserted vertically inside the backpack and allow you to carry heavy loads.

Dakine Mission Backpack is a universal assistant for the mountains, the city, study or work.

Dakine Mission was designed not only for the mountains, but also for office use. It has a vertical carry for a snowboard, adjustable waist and chest straps, and a fleece-lined pocket for a mask. Especially for the city, the backpack has a thick compartment for a laptop, a pocket organizer for pens, phones and accessories. The tight back will provide a good snug fit.

Large capacity is perfect for avalanche equipment, textbooks or gym uniform. Instead of two backpacks for the city or mountains, buy one and enjoy the moment!

Dakine Heli Pro Backpack and its women's version can rightfully be considered one of the most popular models of winter backpacks for snowboarding and alpine skiing. This is a bestseller in the line of winter backpacks. Let's see why this model is so popular. In the Dakine Heli Pro backpack model, we can see how the manufacturer tried to make a backpack not only for riding, but also for everyday use. Diagonal fastenings for skis and vertical fastenings for snowboards - simple and functional, lightweight waist belt, there is somewhere to put a mask - it will not get scratched in a fleece pocket. External mount for shovel. Whistle in the chest strap. Volume 20 liters (the female version has a volume of 18 liters), light weight of 900 grams. What else? Yep, that's it - a compartment for a laptop up to 15 inches diagonal! Here the manufacturer meets those who like to carry their laptop with them halfway. In addition to this, there is also an organizer pocket that is suitable for writing instruments in the summer and avalanche equipment in the winter. The Dakine Heli Pro backpack becomes more versatile; now it can be used as a city backpack, for example for work.

Dakine BC Backpack Vest for skis and snowboards combines the practicality of a backpack with the convenience of a vest, especially for adventures in the mountains.

The Dakine BC vest has special pockets for an avalanche shovel, a probe, and even a system for diagonally carrying skis or vertically carrying a snowboard. Keep all your gear with you during your backcountry climbs.

Modern tourism technologies offer more and more every year. The classic bulky versions of the “barrel” backpack are practically no longer used. They are being replaced by more convenient and thoughtful alternatives. A backpack is of great importance for snowboarders, because it serves to transport vital equipment. For this reason, you need to know how to choose a snowboard backpack.

What is its use

This product is necessary for transporting the athlete's belongings. It contains the necessary survival equipment, as well as accessories. This is a necessary attribute that is responsible for human comfort and safety. Manufacturers take into account the possible risks that await humans, so the product design often includes protective equipment to prevent dangerous situations.

Skiing on the ski slopes requires a specific container for equipment. You need to choose the right backpack so that it can accommodate everything you need and does not create discomfort while wearing it. This is a factor that is responsible not only for convenience, but also for the safety of riding.

When skiing in specially equipped ski parks, the risk of injury is minimized. In this case, a simple briefcase will do. But for driving in open spaces you will need a special backpack. This is due to the fact that during skiing there may be a need to spend the night, the danger of an avalanche, the presence of hidden stones and tree branches.

Features of choice

When buying a backpack, you need to provide the necessary set of functions for its use. It is also of great importance, because supplies of provisions may be needed. Manufacturers also create women's versions that are lighter in weight and size. But they take into account the presence of all the necessary compartments and pockets.

There are several models of backpacks that have positive reviews from users:

• Heli Pro (manufactured by Dakine). They are in the middle price range and have many pockets and compartments. They provide chest and back attachments, as well as places to install a shovel, ice ax and other avalanche equipment. The material is impregnated with a water-repellent liquid.
• Deuter Freerider (Deuter company). German production with minimalist design and practical execution. The capacity is 24 liters, in addition there is back ventilation and a waist belt. The compartments are located in convenient places. The backpack's hydraulic system is provided.
• Riders Pack (manufactured by Burton). The product has bright colors and stylish design. It is quite light, has pockets for basic snowboard accessories and has a weight capacity of 25 kg.

In addition to such characteristics, you need to know the features of caring for the product. can be cleaned with soft brushes, while others will need a full wash. In conditions of active use, this issue remains extremely relevant.

Material selection

Today, all manufacturers use artificial materials to make these products. The most famous among them is the avisent, which is distinguished by its exceptional lightness and softness. With a large number of things, the product loses its shape and becomes deformed. Because of this, it may be difficult to find folded items in a backpack, because they change their original location. This makes up for its cheapness.

Among the more expensive options, Cordura stands out. The shape of such a product is maintained at any capacity. This is achieved by special reinforcement technology using Kevlar threads. The design becomes much stronger, making it suitable for serious ski trips and transporting full equipment. This material also has slip resistance, which is also useful when skating.

Question of filling

Since the snowboard set includes many attributes, serious stability of shape is needed. Often a special frame is sewn into the product, which is located in the area of ​​the shoulder straps. Sometimes it is continued into the bottom of the product to ensure greater stability of the base.

This is not the most important indicator for the snowboard owner, but it will provide additional convenience for carrying a backpack. The following basic requirements are identified:

• design to protect the back from falls;
• moisture-proof and ventilated properties of the material;
• additional functional organizers.

The backpack is located on the person’s back for quite a long period. In winter, it has a warming effect, and if it falls, it prevents injury to the back and head. Some models even have special devices in case of being caught in an avalanche.

Size preferences

The volume of the backpack determines the possibility of filling it with things. It is believed that the larger the size chosen, the better. In the case of a snowboarding backpack, the dimensions must be chosen extremely accurately. The athlete’s inventory includes not only camping equipment, it also includes a shovel in case of danger of a blockage, a cable, sensors and other elements. Often the snowboard itself must be able to be attached to the backpack, as well as the ability to secure spare boots.

The dimensions of the product should allow it to accommodate everything you need. But it’s better not to take large dimensions unless necessary. Lots of empty space can make it difficult to move and also increase the risk of falling. In addition to the main space for things, additional space should be provided in the form of pockets and other compartments.

The cost directly depends on the volume of the backpack. It varies depending on the displacement. Much modern ski equipment comes in compact form or can be folded. This saves space and money for the buyer.

Comfortable to wear

A large number of companies use a harness system to be able to adjust the shoulder straps to suit themselves. They are often supplemented with aluminum elements, which enhance strength. This is necessary in mountainous areas, where you can often fall. The location of the belts depends on the preferences of the manufacturer, but you need to choose them according to your own convenience.

In practice, three types of backpack fastenings are used: horizontal, vertical and diagonal options. The choice depends on the physiological characteristics of each person. Taller athletes prefer vertical ones. Diagonal and horizontal options are more suitable for people of average height.

Eliminate discomfort

It is important to pay attention to the comfort of the backpack so that they do not pinch the body and do not create unnecessary stress. If necessary, the fasteners should be easy to remove without taking extra time. In more expensive versions, the slings have special inserts that soften the wear. They also act as a shock absorber, reducing noticeable weight.

Similar soft inserts should be located on the back. For this, polyurethane foam is used. They look like a special mesh that provides ventilation to the back. This is necessary to prevent condensation from accumulating. Today, S-shaped straps are common. It helps keep the lines together. If they are absent, fasteners must be provided that will forcibly prevent them from slipping off the shoulders.

Protect your back

Despite professionalism, every person can fall on the descent. There is a danger of getting a back injury, sometimes very serious. This is especially common among newbies who neglect safety features. The design of the backpack must have a special shockproof Shield System. It is located in the back wall of the product, looking like an anatomical profile with foam inserts.

Special solution

The design of mining transportation means must provide for the fastening of specific equipment. This includes a rug, tent, board, etc. This is important for saving space, because the rug itself alone takes up 11 liters in the main space. When directly choosing a backpack, it would be better to have a list of things to carry for visual comparison.

Modern models often have special airbags. They are necessary to prevent being caught in an avalanche. When they are triggered, the cylinders are filled with air, which is why the person does not fall under the rubble, remaining on top of the snow.

Extreme holiday

If there is a need for long hikes or skiing, it is better to choose an assault (ski touring) backpack. Such models have a wide range of equipment designed to install equipment of almost any type and size. They have special straps for attaching a snowboard and its accessories.

Among the advantages are:

• the presence of a waist belt, which creates additional ease of movement;
• the small volume of the product is compensated by the variety of compartments;
• specialized bindings for snowboards;
• the design optimally distributes weight.

Many modern models are equipped with a system for supplying drinking water from a fixed flask. Such products must have a ventilated mesh. They often come with instructions on how to best fit things into the pockets, of which there are many.

When choosing a backpack, you need to take into account the features and specifics of its use. Despite their knowledge of board skating, each athlete invests his own set of equipment. You also need to provide your physical abilities. Carrying a load should not overload a person and cause inconvenience during operation.

When choosing a backpack for active use in open areas, it is important to provide protective equipment. These should include the possibility of supplying drinking water and the inclusion of air tanks for lifting over an avalanche.