Everything you need in a winter pack.

By Brian G. Sweeney Ranked #32 - Winter Packs December 9, 2010

I've spent a lot of time looking for a ski pack and i believe this one is perfect. It's a great size for inbounds skiing; it's low profile enough that you can ride the lift with it still on if you want. It carries close to the body without bouncing all around while you ride. It's big enough for some extra layers, a nalgene or two, crampons and/or skins and all of the avy tools you'd want. The dedicated pouch is the perfect size. I haven't tried the hydration sleeve yet. The ice loop and bungee are perfect for my BD mountaineering ax. The two loops toward the top are sufficient for strapping a helmet to the outside. The hip belt has small stretchy pocket which is just big enough for my point and shoot camera. All of the toggles and straps and zippers are sized for use with gloves on. The goggle pocket is a nice touch. There is also a small top pocket just big enough for a few clif bars, sunglasses, keys, wallet and a multi-tool or two.

My plan is to use this for spring backcountry skiing, inbounds and side country skiing and on extended back country ski trips where i use a sled and duffel for the approach and would want a small but technical bag for the actual skiing.

View Details: The North Face Off Chute 26 Winter Pack - 1650cu in

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