ABS Avalanche Rescue Devices

Powder 15 Airbag Backpack

The bigger you go, the bigger the risks, and the bigger the risks, the more important the protection. The ABS Power 15 Avalanche Airbag Backpack isn't exactly huge—just 6 pounds and 915 cubic inches—but it offers tons of avalanche protection in a small package that's perfect for serious big-mountain riding where a giant pack would throw you off your game.

Like all ABS packs, the Powder 15 actually consists of two parts: the ABS Powder base unit and the zip-on Powder 15 cover. The Powder base unit (back panel, shoulder, straps, and ABS Twinbag airbags) is designed to be especially narrow, light and compact, for freeriders who are taking shorter trips or heading into the backcountry to ski big lines. If you feel the snow cut loose under your feet, activate the trigger handle, which can be attached to either shoulder strap, and two 85L airbags inflate within three seconds to help you stay on the surface of the slide. Once the airbags have been deployed, the trigger handle and pressurized canister must be replaced, but the airbags can simply be folded up, stashed, and reused.

In keeping with the Powder's freeride orientation, the waist belt is made of light, elastic neoprene, prioritizing an ergonomic fit over the ability to carry giant loads, and the height-adjustable chest strap and integrated leg strap work to keep the bag securely on your back, even in the turmoil of a slide. The back panel's padded and water-repellent, and the shoulder straps are also ergonomically designed, so you don't feel like you're lugging around an oompa loompa and hucking your meat at the same time, which would be seriously distracting.

The Powder 15 zip-on cover may be pint-sized, but cutting size doesn't mean ditching all the features by the side of the road. There are ski, snowboard, and snowshoe carry systems, a stowable helmet net, and internal mounts to hold your shovel and probe in place when you're sending. All the zippers are waterproof to keep your gear dry, and you can stay well-watered thanks to the Powder 15's hydration compatibility. You can even replace the Powder 15 cover with the Powder 5 cover (sold separately) for more space.

Please remember, an airbag system is NOT a guarantee that you will survive an avalanche; get educated, get the right tools, travel with partners, and be smart out there.