Black Diamonds

By Shane O'Donnell Ranked #16 - Winter Packs January 20, 2009

This is an amazing pack. It has the nice sturdy aluminum stay internal frame to keep the back panel ridged, but is also bendable so you can custom shape your pack to your back. The stays are removable, making it more comfortable for travel, or you can leave them in and have something to clip things to. The hydration pocket is right on the back panel access flap, meaning you can refill your bladder without emptying your pack. And the back panel access, so nice if you are trying to get out a layer in a hurry and don't want to repack. The goggle pocket is nice and plush, so you can leave your goggles in there without a micro bag if you really wanted to It also has a key clip, so you can stay organized coming off the mountain. The insulated sleeve is a good touch, keeps your water flowing so you can keep going. The hip belt pockets are well done, keeping a bar or multi-tool or camera always at the ready with easy enough function for gloved hands. The ski carry system works very well, in either A-Frame or diagonal (personal favourite), and even holds wider powder boards with no problems. The sternum strap has a built in whistle, just for that little extra flair.

The avalanche specific pocket in this pack is planned and executed flawlessly. A shovel goes in the middle, with the elastic securing the handle from excess movement. Then there are 2 more slots, for your snow saw and probe. Black Diamond made sure you have a drain hole in there, so your gear doesn't end up staying soaked after use. In the pocket there is also the adjustment for the diagonal carry loop, key to stay dialed.

View Details: Black Diamond Outlaw Winter Pack - 1831-1939cu in

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