Backcountry Access

Float 42 Airbag Backpack - 2560cu in

As you're acutely aware, skiing and riding in the backcountry poses a myriad of dangerous opportunities for avalanches to strike, even when you've taken the proper steps and precautionary measures. Like wearing a helmet or buckling up with a seat belt, the Backcountry Access Float 42 Airbag Backpack provides an extra line of defense in the event of an avalanche with its Float airbag unit that rapidly deploys with the pull of a handle. Not only does the Float 42 keep you from submerging under the cement-like debris of an avalanche, but it also retains a secure fit during violent tumbles thanks to the waist belt and leg harness attachments. Please note, the BCA compressed air canister is sold separately. For maximum convenience, it's refillable at more than 200 BCA-certified locations throughout the country.

As the largest pack in BCA's line of Float Airbags, the Float 42 caters to professional guides and ski patrollers, as well as demanding backcountry enthusiasts embarking on all-day tours and overnight hut trips. The large main compartment houses the removable Float unit, alongside hanging loops for your hydration reservoir, a clip attachment for radios, and a smaller mesh pocket for skiing and riding accessories. There's plenty of additional room within the main compartment for keeping extra gear, baselayers, and mittens dry. The front avalanche tool pocket is much larger than on a standard backcountry pack. This allows you to not only pack a larger probe and shovel than usual, but also bring along your equipment for snowpack analysis. Other handy features include ice axe sleeves along the exterior, fleece-lined goggle pocket, deployable helmet carrier, and daisy chain loops for clipping gear.