The Bare essentials.

By Seth Morrison Ranked #15 - Winter Packs October 16, 2009

I was stoked when this pack came out a few years. It is small and thats why I like it. As you can see the plaid print stands out, and stands out, important in the backcountry environment. This a day pack for skiing out access gates at your local ski area, or for carrying around some gear while skiing the area, perfect for snowcat skiing or making those dreamed about heli runs. The avalung is built in, why not? Why wouldn't you want this? To me its as important as your beacon. Last year was a prime example that slides can occur inbounds at resorts. Another tool that takes up zero space when its built right into your pack.

Look at the pic to see what I can fit into the pack, this is the max. The ski carry needs to have the lower loop as tight as possible to the ski, you can preset and tuck away in its opening from the pack. Then on the upper removable strap make sure the strap goes under your lowest part of the toe piece and make it tight as possible. Having it set up this way will have the tails as high up as possible so as to not hit the back of your legs. The shovel goes upside down in the pack, works perfectly with the Black Diamond Deploy 3 Shovel.

Mind you this pack is for short trips, and can be an everyday pack for the other listed activities, rarely do I use anything bigger. Depends what you like to bring and if your spending the night out in the field.

View Details: Black Diamond Bandit with Avalung Winter Pack - 690cu in

Helpful Votes: 4 Yes | 0 No