DAKINE Alpine Backpack - 875cu in - 2010 BCS

Bought this on SAC for next to nothing, and didn't intend to use it for winter sports, although I might try it during my next ski trip. What I have used it for is outdoor activities like cycling and boating, and I find it very useful. It sits comfortably on your shoulders/back, it has both a sternum strap and a waist strap (although it's small enough that the lower strap isn't of much use), and it has a handy bottle pass through on the lower right side, great for grabbing a bottle without taking the bag off. Of course, this can interfere with items placed in the bag (or they can fall into the void left by removing the bottle), so it's a mixed blessing. One word of warning - the colors are a little out there - pastel blue and yellow on black, Just make sure that's ok with you and you'll be happy.

It is perfect for what it is......riding / skiing the resort. I doubt that it would fulfill backcountry needs but that isn't why I got it. Two water bottles, wallet, keys, extra base layer, extra goggles and the kids and I hit the slopes. I was worried about riding the lifts with it since I am a big guy but it worked perfect......sits nicely against your back.

i love this pack because of how small it is. it stores what you need, looks sick, and doesn't get in the way. a good buy for sure