Comparison impressions: We compared the backpacks for skiing and snowboarding that will make your backcountry progress.

Backcountry skiing and snowboarding have been gaining popularity over the past few years.

It shows how popular it is, as the magazine features ski resorts where you can ski powder, and the ski resorts also create powder zones! Japan is also a country where you can skip finest powder, and is popular overseas. Japanese powder snow is so popular among foreign skiers that there is a hashtag #japaw. Until now, Niseko and Nagano Hakuba have been popular, but foreign skiing and snowboarders have already made full use of social media to spread their popularity to Nozawa Onsen, Myoko, Zao, Yuzawa, and Mt. Tanigawa.

I was also hooked on sliding the bowder from the slope powder, and in search of even more pleasure, I went backcountry. This time we will review backpacks for backcountry skiing and snowboarding, essential items for enjoying backcountry! We hope this will be of use to those of you who are about to buy a new backpack this season or want to enjoy the backcountry in earnest.

About the backpacks compared this time

The model I used in the backcountry until I conducted this test was the deuter essett . I was somewhat satisfied with the design and the fine storage inside the pockets, and I can see some fraying, so I am still using it, but it has been a long time and the capacity has become a little lacking, so I decided to take this opportunity to buy a new one. As this is the second generation, we would like a highly-finished model that will remain satisfied with the current situation, and will even further resolve any complaints. So I've looked into the latest models in the following desired conditions:

• Capacity is around 30-40L
• Access to main storage from the back
• Skis can be fixed at an A-shaped shape or diagonally
• Comes with helmet holder
• Lots of pockets for backcountry
• If possible, pull the waist belt forward and tighten it
• The design is simple and I like the sophisticated look

These five packs we chose this time to meet these selfish conditions.

• deuter freerider pro 30
• Gregory Targie 35
• Osprey Camber 42
• THE NORTH FACE Chugachi 45
• Thule Upslope 35L

This is just a prediction before the test, but based on the information from the catalog, website, and the experience I've had with the pack I've been carrying so far, Gregory . The North Face rivals the good design and attention to detail that even comes with a wireless pocket . As a brush up on the brand as before, it seems that Deuter Osprey, which is often used by many friends, is followed by many Thule which has recently become more and more prominent, has been chosen with new expectations. In fact, I thought domestic packs such as the classic Mammut , Hoglovs , ORTOVOX , and PLUS ONE WORKS would also be interesting, but I was forced to give up due to the ease of availability, the feel of the store, and budget.

Test environment

The two testers are the author (skier, 165cm tall, weighing 58kg, and using stickers for hiking) and Hisatomi, the editor-in-chief of this company. It can sometimes be fitted solo, so it has a little more basic equipment (including avalanches, gear and helmet) and uses radio. The test was conducted in January to February in ski resort access and full hiking backcountry areas, each using hiking and skiing. We scored the impressions of actually carrying it on our back and using it, as well as detailed observations.

In addition, the following five items were evaluated for each model, loads were allocated according to their importance, and the graded items for each model were set as follows.

1. Comfort (30 points)
   Score based on fit when carrying it on your back, high cushioning, and stability when hiking and downhiking
2. Storage (30 points)
   Points are scored for storing items when hiking, storing items when hiking, and for ease of attaching and detaching the board
3. Ease of use (20 points)
   Points for ease of use, placement of pockets and attachments, opening and closing zippers and buckles, and whether or not they have any other unique features
4. Weight (20 points)
   not just weight, but by weight per capacity

Test results and spec comparison table

Evaluation results - Recommended by type

First of all, all of the items I chose this time were generally satisfied with the fact that they didn't feel any extreme dissatisfaction, such as when something hit or it hurts or being thrown on the run and difficult to balance. The results we will be presenting now are the results of a detailed comparison and consideration. With this in mind, we hope you will find the following results!

THE NORTH FACE Chugachi 45

Overall 1st place: Easy to use in detail, delved into the eyes of a skier

This is ◎

• Abundant storage and easy to take out
• Easy to open and close, and easy to use in detail, including easy access to the back.
• Despite its high durability, it is lightweight

This is △

• It lacks comfort with a slightly long hip belt and slippery back.
• price

After comparing it from various angles, the latest model of Chugachi was the ultimate choice for me. First of all, the capacity and design matched. The biggest reason of all is that it is thoroughly designed to be easy to use, including detailed storage, with a backcountry finish.

For example, access to the main storage from the back panel. It's great to be able to access without removing the shoulder buckle. Furthermore, by deliberately setting the opening and closing range to about 1/3 of the lower part instead of fully open, the zipper will not be hidden behind the hip belt, making it stress-free in the end. It also has subtle features such as a wireless shoulder harness pocket, a buckle that is less likely to get into and makes it easy to open and close with gloves. On the other hand, there are no major negatives, and for now I'm not feeling stressed out using it. I've tried using it in a backcountry where I use ski resorts 4-5 times this season or hike my full time, but I've fallen in love with it every time I carry it.

However, one thing that I'm conscious about is that the cushion that touches the waist is slippery and can easily swing from side to side (this is just a comparison). Also, the waist belt is long, so it may not be possible for people with thin waists to close. If possible, it would be best to check the actual product. Even on a day trip, if it's a shorter route, 45L is probably a little larger. In that case, we recommend another smaller size (35L). Anyway, I hope you will experience this thorough, easy-to-use experience from a skier's perspective.

Osprey Camber 42

Despite its affordable price, it has a stable feel and ease of use, making it the best value for money.

This is ◎

• The back panel fits the back and moderate cushioning make it comfortable to carry
• Abundant storage and easy to put in and take out
• Simple and easy to use
• Cost Performance

This is △

• There's nothing in particular, but if I had to say that, the zipper on the back panel is a bit more difficult to move.

This time, the Osprey Camber 42 was the No. 1 rating in terms of cost performance. It's comfortable to carry, easy to use, the fabric is sturdy, the balance is good, and it's not too heavy. To be honest, it's not surprising that some people would say this is the best, and it's also affordable. I don't think there are many backpacks that are as cost-effective as possible.

One of my favorites was the comfort of carrying it on my back. The curves on the back panel fit on the back and fit very well, and even after using it suddenly during a four-hour hike, there was no chance that anything would hit me and hurt me. Regarding storage, even if you deduct the large size of 42L, it is simple and spacious, making it easy to put in and take out. The top is a canopy, so besides storing avalanche gear in the front, it is almost the same as a regular mountaineering backpack in terms of usability, making it safe to use.

If I had to point out the drawback, the zipper on the side of the back panel, which is the most used to take out luggage, rubs against the fabric on the inside, making it slightly more moving. However, this differs from individual to individual, and compared to other models, I was only concerned about it, and when I used it locally, I didn't really notice it.

deuter Freerider Pro 30

The comfort of carrying and stability when gliding is the No. 1 overall comfort

This is ◎

• Fit, cushioning, stability and overall comfort

This is △

• weight
• Small capacity for storage and low usability

The No. 1 comfort is the deuter Freerider Pro 30. It was top-notch in terms of fit, cushioning, and stability (hike-up and downhill).

What I particularly liked was the unique idea of ​​the comfort of the rear panel, and the fit and stability of the hip belt (Baliflex system) that moves according to the movement of the hips. I've been using the Deuter for a long time so far, but the grooved back structure is outstanding, giving it breathability and cushioning. Perhaps because I was overwhelmed by the heat, I felt that not only was the warm and cheerfulness of spring skiing, but it was still cool even during hiking during the high season. Overall, the thin shape does not have a center of gravity too back, and the variflex system does not shake easily, making it stable when sliding.

One weakness is that it is heavier than other models. Also, storage capacity is slightly less common. However, the 30L capacity is the perfect size for those who are about to start backcountry, or those who enjoy backcountry with day trips only, side country, or lift access. A large capacity backpack that can be difficult to balance loads with lots of luggage, making it more troublesome than you imagined, unless you are very confident in your skiing skills. The difficulty of "large and small" is one of the bothersome and fun aspects of backcountry packs.

Thule Upslope 35L

Lightweight, highly functional, clean look, and the most light-heavy model

This is ◎

• Surprisingly light with parts omitted while maintaining durability and ease of use
• Low center of gravity by placing luggage around the waist
• price

This is △

• It's difficult to tighten your hip belt
• Accessory storage is divided into multiple parts, making top storage a little smaller

The No. 1 lightness is the Thule Upslope 35. It has a capacity of 35L, but is very light at 1380g. It's amazing that it's light, but there are almost no negative factors like the thin fabric or the cushioning is bad.

What I particularly liked was that it was generally well-made with a number of new specifications that are not bound by the common sense of ski backpacks up to now, including their lightness. The left and right pockets of the hip belt are significantly larger than other models, and the fact that they are arranged around the waist makes it easy to take out items, as well as the pack's center of gravity is downward, improving stability. Furthermore, the detailed ideas such as the hook-type front belt and the helmet holder can be sewn on to make it easier to put on and take off (and it can be attached to two patterns, the front and bottoms), which convey the creator's desire for details, such as pursuing both lightness and functionality, eliminating waste, and making it easier for users to do so, reducing work from them.

One thing that really bothers me is that the hip belt is a type that pulls both outsides to tighten, so it is difficult to tighten compared to the others. However, it seems that Thule's backpack making seems to have just begun, so it is a brand that will be attracting attention in the future. If you like new things, you should choose this one as a means of investing!

Gregory Targie 35

If you're unsure about the stable comfort and ease of use, this is what you'll find!

This is ◎

• High stability and cushioning around the hip belt
• No drawbacks
• Ease of use in small details such as zippers and buckles

This is △

• price

It was certainly high expectations, so perhaps they managed to split the gap. Gregory's all-around ski pack was mid-point in score rankings, but in a nutshell it was the most flawed backpack this time. Although there was not a particularly outstanding part where this was the best, there are almost no parts where it is bad, and it's amazing that it's amazing, and the impression I've thought about this pack once again.

This hip belt, which firmly covers the entire hip bone and supports the load, is the best this time, including its high cushioning. The comfort when hiking is the same as ever Gregory quality. The storage area is also easy to understand, with the main avalanche and accessories being divided into easy-to-understand categories, and the large top accessory pockets allow you to store the large goggles these days with plenty of room to store, and the zipper is smooth and easy to grip, making it extremely easy to use. The access to the back is also impressive, as you can open without removing the shoulder buckle.

On the other hand, this may be a problem with the individual's body shape, but I was concerned about the shoulder-to-arm line of the shoulder harness. My shoulders felt a little wider, and from there I felt like I was closing my armpits so quickly that I felt a bit rubbing. If you are concerned, it is a good idea to try fitting on site carefully.

If it's clear that it's not good or bad, it's often the case that this is the best for some people. If you're not sure what personality to look for in your backpack, then if you don't want to regret it, buy this! This backpack can be said.

summary

Unlike traversal packs that are simply carried on your backcountry skiing, backpacks are required to be convenient and comfortable for a variety of occasions, such as skiing, skiing stickers and downhill after climbing. Therefore, I once again realized that each model is an advanced technology product that is not only a fit, comfort, stability, but also a variety of elements that are complexly intertwined, such as ease of use, light weight, and design. The five models this time were all about the overall balance in that sense, so to be honest, it was very difficult to compare. That was a pleasant miscalculation though.

On the other hand, I am a little unsatisfied that none of the models have the function to adjust the back. Ski packs can be difficult due to their structure as they have access to the back, but I think this is a feature that will be necessary in the future to achieve a higher fit and less shaking.

Although choosing a famous brand won't make a big difference, depending on how you use it, your backpack will be your companion for a long time. If you're going to do it, you'll want to get a favorite that you won't regret. Use this article as a reference and try to find a partner to your heart's content!

Hamaguchi Makoto

When I quit my job as an office worker and stayed at a ski resort, I became interested in powder riding after seeing friends who enjoyed powder. After that, I worked as a ski shop clerk before heading to my family's soba restaurant. In the summer we go to a soba restaurant. My goal is to work as a skier in the winter.

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