Backpack test: how we test
With or without an airbag? You can answer that question before the season starts or – if you have the choice – before every single tour. Airbag packs add a level of safety, but on average they also weigh about one kilogram more.
An airbag pack is one piece of a holistic risk management approach in ski touring and freeriding. Realistically, using an airbag pack – assuming correct handling – only increases the likelihood of a shallower burial and therefore a potentially faster rescue. No avalanche pack replaces proper training in risk management and the knowledge of how to behave in the event of a burial.
The four test classes
- Airbag packs up to 25 litres
- Airbag packs from 25 litres
- Ski touring packs up to 25 litres
- Ski touring packs from 25 litres
Testers
All testers tested every pack over five days. Women's models are tested only by women, men's models by men, and unisex models by everyone. The packs are divided into two groups – airbag packs and ski touring day packs without an airbag.
Our testers, between 160 and 190 centimetres tall, assessed carrying comfort and handling as well as access to shovel and probe. Attachment options and pack weight were recorded by the editorial team. Each of these categories was scored with up to 25 points.
Test setup
Weight – up to 25 points (editorially determined)
Weight differences between packs can be considerable. Weight on your back is less noticeable than weight on your feet (boots, skis, bindings), but it does add up on long ascents. Pack weights are determined by the editorial team.
Because the volumes of the tested packs differ substantially, we recommend comparing weight and volume figures directly. The conversion to a 0 to 25 point scale takes into account the heaviest and lightest packs we have tested over the past seven years.
Attachment options – up to 25 points (editorially determined)
There are small but meaningful differences in the attachment options for skis, crampons, ice axes and helmets. Ski carry systems are mounted either on the sides or on the back of the pack, sometimes both. Manufacturer instructions must be followed carefully so that airbag deployment is not compromised.
Some packs offer dedicated crampon compartments, nearly all provide one or two ice axe attachments. Many have well thought-out helmet carries, some do not. Some models feature daisy chains that make it easy to attach a sleeping mat with a strap or cord. Others offer one or more hip belt loops for climbing hardware such as quickdraws or belay devices.
Carrying comfort and handling – up to 25 points (tested)
Pack size plays a significant role in fit, especially for people 160 centimetres and shorter or 190 centimetres and taller. More and more brands now offer several pack sizes, which is good to see.
Adapting a pack to individual anatomy is well solved in most cases, but only within certain limits. We recommend trying a pack on while it is loaded. Handling differs more clearly: buckles and adjustment systems that are too small or hard to operate with gloves can lead to frozen fingers on very cold days.
Access to shovel & probe – up to 25 points (tested)
Fast, simple access to shovel and probe can save crucial seconds in an emergency. Some manufacturers highlight the access with colour coding, which is exemplary. Some solutions are completely intuitive, while other packs require several closures to be opened before you reach probe and shovel.
How stars are awarded (editorially determined)
The best roughly 20 % of the packs in each test category received a star.
In addition, stars were awarded for the best total score and for the best euro per point ratio. The cheapest models were not automatically awarded – only those that convinced on price and overall performance.