Great ski pack

By Chope Ranked #1033 - Winter Packs March 10, 2008

Without consideration for the Avalung, this is a great pack. It carries skis well (across the back is my preference, not A-frame style). The insulated shoulder strap works, though the end of it could be a bit larger to fit a 90 degree CamelBak bite valve better. The should straps seem flat when you get them, but curve nicely with use. The waist-belt also seems slight at first use, but works well. I use it inbounds as a water bladder holder and out of bounds for a day pack. The 32L is big enough for a poofy coat and lunch and avy gear. The 22L is too small for all of that in my opinion. The 32L adds length to the pack to get the extra volume. At first fit the 32L seems too tall (I'm 5'7" and use the 18in pack) but once it's loaded and the shoulder straps break in it's fine. The avalung is an obvious perk - it's a reminder to me that if I think about getting the mouth piece out, maybe I shouldn't be on the slope where I am. I hope to never use it. But even when I'm on "safe" backcountry slopes, I have the mouthpiece out because I can. I'd feel extra stupid if I was caught in an avalanche, with this pack, and didn't have the mouth piece out. You won't be able to get it out of the shoulder strap while you're sliding the slope in an avalanche. If you're going backcountry, there's no reason not to get it. You don't go without a beacon right?

View Details: Black Diamond Covert Avalung Winter Pack - 1343-1953cu in

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