The three major safety items, such as snowy mountain equipment, are now talked about as a matter of course, are the "shovel", "beacon", and "probes (sonde)."
In fact, more than 20 years ago, in the late 1990s, the university mountain club I belonged to was split in half over the question of whether beacons are essential to enter the snowy mountains, causing a stir in controversy. Not only do we have to prepare beacons that cost more than 50,000 yen per unit at the time, but we also want to prepare the beacons for the members as part of the club, even if it's safer, it's not like we can make an immediate decision. In the end, we managed to provide the costs with assistance from the club, users, and alumni, and settled on the hard conclusion that "everyone should equip beacons when climbing a snowy mountain." It was difficult at the time, but now I think that my decision was correct at that time.
The balance between safety and the necessary investments in it remains the same as decades ago. One of these is the backpack for snowy mountains, the "Avalanche Airbag-equipped Backpack (commonly known as the Avalanche Airbag)," which we will introduce today. Simply put, it refers to an amazing safety gear that can inflate like a car's airbag, instantly bulging out like a car's airbag, making it difficult to bury your body onto the surface of the avalanche, and reduce the impact of collisions on trees, rocks, etc. Unlike the three sacred treasures mentioned above, the above-mentioned three sacred treasures, search and rescue tools for people buried in avalanches, this is an easy-to-understand and attractive equipment in the sense that it actively reduces the risk of burial caused by an avalanche, and it is said that if the airbag is actually successfully deployed, the chances of death can be reduced by 50%*1.
As someone who works on snowy mountains, I have always wanted it. However, due to the high hurdles of prices that are difficult to afford, weight that is not easy to deal with, and structures that are easy for amateurs to use (such as they are not easy to try), I was still unable to leave the area of a tool that is just one step further for amateur backcountry skiers and mountain climbers like me who are still unconscious.
Over the past few years, interesting models have been released that give the impression that there are finally more practical features for "normal enthusiasts" like me. the Black Diamond Jet Force Pro , the backpack I'm reviewing this time . So, in the near future, we will be giving you a quick review of how we actually used this important item for all snowy mountain climbers, not just backcountry skiers (snowboarders) in order to climb snowy mountains this winter.
table of contents
- What can you do with an avalanche airbag?
- Why we recommend Black Diamond Jet Force Pro?
- Easy to operate and maintain because it is an electric type
- High safety assuming small risks
- The automatic contraction function not only makes it safe, but also makes it easy to store airbags after operation
- You can always update to the latest features by linking it to smartphones
- Modular structure that allows you to replace the cargo space according to the capacity and purpose
- Smooth and comfortable to carry
- High storage capacity thanks to the minimum necessary pockets and attachments without waste
- Comparison with another powerful option: SCOTT PATROL E1 40 BACKPACK
- Summary: The main prize of the electric avalanche airbag that combines the three key features of safety, convenience and comfort
What can you do with an avalanche airbag?
Before we begin our review, we'll share some basic information about what an avalanche airbag is. As the name "Avalanche" suggests, this is equipment to increase your chances of survival if caught in an avalanche.
If when caught up in an avalanche, if the person is buried under the snow (debris) accumulated by the avalanche, the deeper the deeper the chances of a human being able to escape from the snow on its own. This is evidenced by the fact that 75% of the causes of death in an avalanche are suffocating death*2. If you get caught up in the process, you must try to stay on the surface of an avalanche as much as possible in order to survive.
The avalanche airbag instantly bulges in the balloons mounted inside the backpack by pulling the trigger, allowing the victims to float as close to the surface as possible while being washed away by the avalanche, preventing them from being buried deep inside the debris.
Seeing is worth seeing. For reference, here is the video that is famous as a demonstration of the avalanche airbag. The shocking appearance of the fact that he was equipped with an avalanche airbag, as he survived even after encountering an actual avalanche.
Another feature of models from certain manufacturers is that, just like car airbags, inflating the head, can be expected to have the effect of protecting critical areas such as the head and neck from collisions with standing trees or rocks.
Of course, if you wear this, it's not like you'll never be able to fill up even if you encounter an avalanche. Basically, you should act to avoid avalanches, and always be conscious of positions that will not get caught up in the event of an avalanche. Furthermore, if you run into it, the avalanche airbag is the final trump card for risk aversion.
Needless to say, when using the backpack introduced here, it is essential to understand the usage and precautions listed in the manual, and learn about the dangers of avalanches and how to deal with them. Each person is responsible for all actions and decisions made on snowy mountains, as well as risk-based decisions.
Why we recommend Black Diamond Jet Force Pro?
Easy to operate and maintain because it is an electric type
Since avalanche airbags require instant inflation of balloons, compressed gas structures have been the norm up until now. While gas-type gas-type gas has advantages such as having a simple structure, strong air momentum, and relatively light weight, it also has the drawback that it is not too much effort and cost, such as cylinders containing compressed gas are basically used up once and require purchase or refilling each time, restrictions on handling methods according to the law, and having to carry a replacement cylinder to prepare for multiple uses, making it difficult to make the effort and cost less.
For this reason, it was not easy to try out what an amateur like me, or practice in case of an emergency, and yet, if it was a high-priced product that was easy to get over 100,000 yen, it was a tool with a very high hurdle to making the decision to buy.
In response to this situation, several manufacturers, including ARC'TERYX and PIEPS (& Black Diamond), have recently been developed by motor-driven electric avalanche airbags. The biggest advantage of electric models is that they can be inflated as many times as you like when you recharge them.
If this is the case, if you think, "I'm not sure if it's an avalanche or not, but it's suspicious," you can pull the trigger without hesitation, and it's also possible to train yourself so that the sudden movements can get you through your body so that they can be properly activated in an emergency.
High safety assuming small risks
Jet Force Pro is to start inflation by pulling the trigger on the shoulder after turning it on. The sequence from here on is summarized in the video below.
Press the red switch at the bottom of the trigger for 3 seconds to activate the system. The system will then perform an error check and, if it is operating normally, a green light will be displayed along with a blue light with a charging status.
There is an AC adapter jack for charging at the shoulder, which is opposite the trigger. Close the zipper and do not try it while you are in action. Incidentally, the left and right of this adapter jack and trigger can be changed according to your preference.
During your action, be sure to tighten the sternum straps on your chest and the leg straps located at the waist, as well as the waist harness. This will prevent accidents such as when you get caught in an avalanche and activate the airbag, the backpack may come out of your body or the backpack may be strangled by a backpack that has stomped it.
The leg strap in particular is easy to stretch and store, and in addition, a carabiner comes standard, making it easier to secure it to the harness. It has been improved to the smallest details.
The straps can be neatly stored in the waist harness bag, and when you put them on, you can pull them out and they will stretch. There is also a carabiner at the end, making it extremely smart.
Pull the trigger on the shoulder to inflate the balloon instantly.
The open airbag has a large capacity of 170L, covering the head to the sides of the body.
*Sternum straps and leg straps are not worn for testing purposes, but in actual situations where there is a risk of an avalanche, be sure to wear them before acting.
The latest model has a lighter and more compact system than the previous model, and if it is fully charged, it can be used at least 3-4 times on a single charge (the manual says "3+" when fully charged). These four times are said to be designed to be the worst case scenario, even if all of the " misuse of use (misuse), when passing through the avalanche pass when hiking, when descending, and when an avalanche just after an avalanche occurs " occur, it can be handled without charging. Incidentally, it's unofficial, but when I tried it in my home's room temperature at around 20°C, I was able to use it eight times in a continuous operation on a fully charged battery. As the limit temperature for use is -30°C, the maximum number of uses varies depending on the environment. It should be noted that this should take 3-4 times, taking into consideration the use at such minimum temperatures.
The automatic contraction function not only makes it safe, but also makes it easy to store airbags after operation
And as you can see in the video above, Black Diamond (and PIEPS ) jet force system allows the fan to rotate backwards after three minutes of the airbag being deployed, allowing the airbag to automatically deflate, ensuring an air pocket there. This is said to be designed to help ensure breathing and create a space that is easy to escape even if it gets buried in the snow.
This automatic deflection function is also useful when restoring the airbag. The Jet Force does not need to manually drain the air from the inflated balloons, nor does it have to fold it in a fixed way. You can just push the automatically withered airbag in and close the zipper (although strictly speaking, you need to squeeze out some remaining air).
I don't think you'll actually encounter that many tasks to re-storage the airbag, but folding it properly in a harsh environment with cold and strong winds is a very laborious task, so this kind of design that doesn't matter if it's a bit of a rough look is a bit of a stretch, but a great design.
No special care is required for mountain climbing or storing the product after the season has passed. To finish using the system and close (to put it in sleep mode), simply press and hold the power button on the trigger mentioned earlier. Even if you forget to turn off the power, the system will automatically switch to sleep mode if the airbag is not running for 12 hours. Also, once the season is over, you will need to set it to long-term storage mode to protect the battery, but once sleep mode continues for 7 days (that is, if the backpack does not work for a little over 7 days), it will automatically switch to long-term storage mode.
You can always update to the latest features by linking it to smartphones
Furthermore, one of the major points that has evolved with the latest models is the online update function, which is possible by connecting to a smartphone app via Bluetooth. Up until now, firmware updates were required to send products to the manufacturer if new features were added or bug fixes were fixed, but now that the model now allows products to be sent via Bluetooth, you no longer have to wait weeks for items to be sent to the manufacturer for an update. In fact, there was an update this season as well, and the update was successfully completed through the app (photo below).
Firmware updates are stress-free via smartphone.
This smartphone app also has features to make it safer to use. For example, you can perform an operation check without operating the airbag, such as to whether the system is not malfunctioning or whether it works properly (photo below). As it is a tool that will entrust your life to you in the unlikely event, it gives you even a little peace of mind when it comes to things like "an electric type is just anxious about whether it will really move."
System operation tests can also be performed without actually deploying the airbag on a smartphone.
Modular structure that allows you to replace the cargo space according to the capacity and purpose
One of the recommended points of this pack is that the avalanche system and the luggage compartment are separated, making it a modular structure that allows you to attach and detach different types of boosters to suit your purpose and plan.
You can customize it for a wide range of uses by attaching and removing different packs (boosters) with zippers.
It is definitely better to be able to use a variety of uses and capacity in one avalanche system, including 10L, 25L, 35L, and 25L (for snowboarding), even though it is an expensive backpack that costs over 100,000 yen, but it is better to use only one 20L pattern. This specification was really helpful and was a major factor that pushed me towards people like me, who were reluctant to buy. the Jet Force Pro featured in the review photo in the main text is the 35L version.
Left: Jet Force System part (back), Middle: 35L booster, Right: 25L booster.
For day trips, 10L or 25L sizes are sufficient. The 35L size is perfect for bringing a full day's worth of SLRs, and if you try hard you can stay in a tent. The photo below compares the capacity images of 25L size (left of the bottom photo) and 35L size. The 35L size has a compression strap on the side, so even if you have less luggage, the backpack is less likely to shake a little, but the one strap on top doesn't compress that well, so I wish that this part would have been a little more work to do as a backpack.
The 25L (left) is thinner than the 35L, and the luggage is less shaking. The 35L version has side straps to prevent it from shaking even if there is less luggage.
However, it's still a shame and what you need to be careful about is that you can only choose the 25L model that allows you to attach a snowboard. There may be a few snowboarders in the backcountry that require more than 35L, but my friend, snowboarder, had given up on it for a reason.
Smooth and comfortable to carry
How does it perform as a backpack? Looking at the exterior, it's quite simple. The main fabric is Dyneex, which is strong and lightweight, thanks to ripstops made of Dyneema® fibers. The back is made of high-density foam pads that are less likely to adhere to snow and do not retain water, and smoothly connects to the shoulder and waist harness, and covers the back. However, there is no back adjustment function, so you will need to choose between S/M or M/L sizes.
Backpacks equipped with the Avalanche system tend to weigh more than regular backpacks, but Jet Force Pro also had no problems with stability when carrying them on their backs. The avalanche system itself is located behind the waist, so if you pack your luggage normally, the center of gravity will settle downward, so you won't feel like your body is swinging more than necessary when you slide down.
However, this stability felt more comfortable at 25L, but when you pack the 35L to the fullest, you will feel a little shaken.
High storage capacity thanks to the minimum necessary pockets and attachments without waste
As for the storage function as a backpack, although some parts are exclusive to airbag systems, it can be said to be easy to use, allowing you to reach its own itchy areas in general.
The airbag system is mainly filled with the outer periphery on the back of the main storage, but there is a space close to the center where you can hold a 1L plastic bottle and a 500ml heated bottle. Be careful as thick Nalgene bottles are difficult to fit two bottles.
And there is a large storage space on the front. Because of its modular structure, the main storage zipper opens wide to the base.
The wide opening main storage is a great help for packing it in a solid state, but this zipper is so smoother than you would expect, making it a little unstable to put things in and take things upright. As it is a part I use frequently, that was the most difficult part of this backpack to use.
On the front is a storage space for avalanche tools, and the zipper has a noticeable red pull handle for immediate opening in emergencies. You can open it by operating these, but you can also open it by simply pulling the black pull on the corner (fine considerations to prepare the avalanche tool as quickly as possible!).
There is also a large pocket on the top where you can store goggles and small items.
There is a small pocket on the right side of the waist harness, where you can hold small items such as towels, food, spare inner gloves, and snow removal brushes.
The outside of the pack also comes with all the attachments you need for backcountry skiing. For example, ski attachments can be attached to a diagonal to prevent interference with the airbag. With my luggage in full, the belt above was just about the length of the skis, with a waist width of 120cm, but I was able to install it somehow. Due to the structural reasons for the avalanche airbag system, the only way to install it is to avoid interference is diagonal, but personally I would be happy if it could be installed with an A-frame. The A-frame is more stable in terms of balance.
You can secure the helmet by pulling out the helmet holder stored at the top of the front. As expected, this holder is located at the top of the backpack rather than underneath it, and it is easy to install.
The buckle and velcro make it firmly secured. I don't think it will interfere with the airbag unless it's very long, but a pick or blade cover is a must.
Comparison with another powerful option: SCOTT PATROL E1 40 BACKPACK
I was able to try out a few of the avalanche airbags that were also featured at the same time, the SCOTT PATROL E1 40 BACKPACK KIT
It is the same electric type, and the price and weight are almost the same (the SCOTT is slightly lighter). At first glance, I didn't think it was possible to judge which one was better, but when I actually used it, I realized that the details of the usability were more different than I thought. This is not clearly the superiority or inferiority that anyone uses, but it is a worrying problem that differs in pros and cons from person to person.
So, below is a summary of the things I found interesting after comparing them.
| Item name | Black Diamond Jet Force Pro | SCOTT PATROL E1 40 BACKPACK |
|---|---|---|
| Separation and modification of the system and backpack | ◯ Possible, wide variety and affordable |
It is possible, but the price of the replacement pack is higher |
| Used on snowboarding | 25 split models only | ◯ Available on all models |
| Installing the skis | Diagonal only | ◯ Both diagonal and A-frames are possible |
| Online Update | ◯ | |
| Number of operations on one charge | ◯ Multiple times possible |
Basically once |
| How to charge | AC adapter | ◯ Charges with a USB cable for a few hours or 40 minutes with two AA batteries |
| Airbag size (capacity) | ◯ | |
| Automatic air discharge function | ◯ | You need to manually push it out |
| Airbag storage | ◯ It's OK to push it in without folding |
You need to fold it according to the manual |
| Storageability | ◯ | |
| Fine usability | ◯ | |
| design | ◯ |
As a result, I chose Jet Force for BD
- In terms of safety performance, the BD's jet force system and the SCOTT's Alpride E1 system are both excellent, and it's hard to choose between them.
- Both are made of versatile and allow for the backpack to be replaced, but the BD is more affordable for backpacks.
- Since I'm a skier, the disadvantage of not being able to install a BD snowboard is irrelevant.
- The BD is better overall ease of use, including small details such as the storage of the airbag and the storage and usability of the backpack itself.
If you are satisfied with the above points, I recommend Jet Force For some people (especially snowboarders) it may be difficult with Jet Force .
Summary: The main prize of the electric avalanche airbag that combines the three key features of safety, convenience and comfort
It was the first time I had my hands on an avalanche airbag, but in the end I chose this model and was very satisfied. Although there are minor complaints compared to regular backpacks, it is highly complete enough to assert that these backpacks will soon become commonplace.
The technology capabilities of PIEPS in the electronic and software field, which has long been pursuing safety technology in snowy mountains, and Black Diamond, which has pursued safe hardware, focusing on climbing, are all scattered everywhere.
Furthermore, there has been a steady evolution in comfort and ease of use, making it the most kind and safe backpack for players carrying an avalanche airbag for the first time.
Looking at the statistics for the 1993-2017 season and the percentage of fatal avalanches killed by activity, 44% of climbers, 40% skiers, and 10% snowboarders, avalanches attack not only backcountry skiers but also snowy climbers*3. Backpacks are effective not only for skiers, but for anyone who is doing activities in snowy mountains where avalanches are at risk.
If you want to work more safely in the snowy mountains at this time, or do everything you can to prevent the people around you from saddening, there's no reason not to consider it.
| Specs | |
|---|---|
| Item name | Jet Force Pro 35 |
| capacity | 35 liters (25L and 10L models available) |
| weight |
|
| material |
|
| Size variations | S/M: 2.95kg, M/L: 3.05kg |
| Helmet carrier | Standard equipment |
| Snowboarding compatible | × |
| Installing the skis | Diagonal |
| accessories | Charging adapter |
| evaluation | |
| Airbag system | ★★★★★ |
| Comfort | ★★★★☆ |
| Slide stability | ★★★★☆ |
| Storageability | ★★★★☆ |
| Convenience in BC | ★★★★☆ |
| weight | ★★★★★ |
[Footnotes and caution]
*1 The Japan Society of Snow and Ice Society, "Basic Knowledge for Avalanche Countermeasures 2015," the Japan Society of Snow and Ice Society,
*2 and 3. Degawa Azusa and Ikeda Shinji, Japan Avalanche Network, a non-profit organization called "~Avoid mountain users~ A guide to reducing avalanche risk" Tokyo Shimbun
Note: The content written here is merely a personal consideration based on the author's understanding and experience, and does not guarantee the safety or legitimacy of the product. Please make sure to fully understand the official information of each manufacturer regarding the purchase and use of products, take sufficient consideration of risks in the natural environment, and make each action judgment at your own risk, taking into account each individual's responsibility.