The North Face Patrol 48 Winter Pack - 2800cu in - 2009 BCS

I use this pack mostly for backcountry snowboarding and am very impressed with its ability to hold everything you need to stay hydrated, fed and warm as well as a probe and shovel (in a dedicated pocket) and then some. The shovel/probe pocket is large enough to comfortably fit and zip up over a BlackDiamond deploy 7 shovel and 265 cm probe as well as a snow stability kit and some other odds and ends leaving plenty of room in the main pocket for layers, food etc. The small top pocket is actually pretty big and can hold a a hat, gloves, camera and sunscreen for easy access. there is also a small pocket inside the top pocket to clip and zip your car keys into. I have used the Patrol 48 doing some side country off piste at a resort and although a little big for that, there are many adjustment options to take in excess room.

my only concern with this bag is the snowboard/ski attachement straps use an open end clip instead of a traditional snap buckle. I had the top strap come unclipped after my board (strapped vertically) hit my calf while hiking up a ridge which caused me to stop and reattach. Something i may not have had the option to do if I was ascending in a less forgiving place.

Overall, I do reccommend this pack as I have had a great time using it in the back country. It is very light for its size and very user friendly while wearing gloves.