Excellent design, questionable durability

By Adam Lewis Ranked #105 - Winter Packs June 3, 2008

I have been using the stash BC pack for 2 seasons now and for the most part I love it. The design is simple, yet very functional, pockets are well placed, integrated hydration system is the best I have seen and the waterproof material/zippers shed water, even in a downpour. The outer pocket fits a shovel blade and there is an internal sleeve to store the handle and probe for quick access. My biggest complaint about this pack is the way the ski loops were sewn onto the top of the pack. The sewing is solid but the material is very thin and with no backing material the loops tore off after a single ascent with skis a-framed. The lightweight material used on this pack compromises durability and is prone to tearing if tested by an ice tool, crampon or pole tip. Like a previous reviewer, I also experienced some seam splitting (they are glued, not sewn).

I ended up returning my BCA Stash for warranty and replacing it with the Osprey Switch 36 which has proven to be a better all around winter BC pack. The Switch 36 is slightly larger, has two really useful hip stash pockets for snacks, camera, GPS, etc as well as a more comfortable suspension for heavier loads.

View Details: Backcountry Access Stash BC Pack - 2135cu in

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