Deuter

Pace 36L Backpack

The less weight you have on your back, the less energy you have to expend schlepping it around and the more you can focus on getting to the top so you can throw rocks down on your super-slow buddy. That's (kind of) the theory behind the Deuter Pace 36 Backpack, which doesn't really encourage rock-throwing, but totally inspires fast-and-light alpine skiing, climbing, and hiking missions. It uses Deuter's Lite Back System—an Air Mesh back panel, removable waist belt and sternum strap, and removable, flexible Delrin U-frame—to support up to 35lbs of gear without feeling stiff or heavy.

Deuter also hooked the Pace up with plenty of pockets, hooks, loops, and straps to carry everything you'll need for a long day in the backcountry. Skis attach either vertically or as an A-frame, while a snowboard straps vertically onto the front of the pack and ice axes or trekking poles slide securely into the bottom loops. There are stretch water-bottle pockets in addition to the internal hydration sleeve, a waterproof compartment for soggy gear, and a drop-in front pocket for gloves, skins, or other gear that you'd like to keep handy.