Contributions by Chope (4)

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?

I love the simplicity. One pocket for stuff, one for avy equipment. Easy pulling zipper to access either. No fastex buckles to battle with when the thick gloves are on. The insulated shoulder strap works (OK, I did the blow-air-back-into-the tube trick too - but I still didn't have a freeze up during a 5 degree day). Surprisingly comfortable given the minimal waist and. I'd recommend the 32L - 22L proved a bit small for more than water, gloves, lunch (no extra layer room).

This pack has a pocket or tie or something for every strap. Nothing is flopping around. The hydration pack is accessed from outside the main pocket. It seems bigger than it is rated. The suspension is non-existent - it's a very soft, comfy backpanel. Didn't carry skis with it, so I'm not sure how that works or feels with the lack of stiff suspension

I use these under some thin softshell gloves for everything from ski touring to ice climbing to cold weather mountain biking. Basically, if my hands are cold in my gloves, I put these on (and they are thin enough to fit under almost other glove) and my hands are never cold anymore. For me, they add 10-15 degrees of comfort.