Ski touring backpacks · Test magazine 2024
Tech talk with Elias Wehrlin, MAMMUT
Team Lead Packs & Bags · Print page 41
Who is Elias Wehrlin? Team Lead Packs & Bags at MAMMUT
Elias Wehrlin is Team Lead Packs & Bags at MAMMUT, responsible for the global strategy and development of this product category. He brings experience as a backpack product manager and combines his professional work with his passion for ski touring and mountaineering. In the BACKLINE 2024 test magazine, he explains the positioning of ski touring and freeride backpacks and the criteria for choosing a model.
According to Wehrlin, the Free, Tour and Pro airbag lines remain unchanged for winter 2024. Among models without airbags, the Aenergy ST series receives recycled, more robust material. The fully redesigned Nirvana collection offers 18, 22, 28 and 35 litres, each in unisex and women’s fits. Features include recycled fabrics, ski attachments, an avalanche equipment compartment and a compartment for a separately available back protector. Sizes from 22 litres upwards also feature back-panel access and an integrated helmet holder.
When choosing a pack, Wehrlin recommends first deciding whether to use an airbag; MAMMUT recommends carrying one on ski tours. He positions Nirvana for freeriding and freetouring, and Aenergy ST for weight-conscious ski touring. To extend product life, he highlights robust materials and construction, regular care, reproofing when needed, dry storage and repairs by MAMMUT.
How does the latest series of Mammut ski touring backpacks differ from previous models?
Mammut offers ski touring backpacks with and without an Airbag System. The Free, Tour, and Pro Airbag backpack product lines will remain unchanged in winter 2024. The collection without an Airbag system consists of the two product lines Nirvana (Freeride, Freetouring) and Aenergy ST (Ski-Touring). The Aenergy ST products will receive a material update and will feature recycled, more robust material in the future. All Nirvana backpacks have been completely redesigned and appear with a totally new and modern look. The Nirvana Packs are now available in four sizes (18, 22, 28, and 35 liters) and in both Unisex and Women’s Fit. All backpacks are made from recycled fabrics and equipped with essential touring-specific features such as ski attachments, an avalanche equipment compartment, and a very comfortable carrying system. New to all packs is a compartment for a separately available back protector. From size 22 and upwards, there is also a practical back opening and integrated helmet holder. Nirvana backpacks regularly appear on our bestseller list – and with the new generation, we are confident that we can further expand this franchise and appeal to more younger and female freeriders.
What would you recommend to an interested ski touring backpack buyer to find the right model for them?
To start, interested buyers should decide whether they want a backpack with or without an airbag. We generally recommend carrying an airbag system for ski tours and therefore always speak of the “Essential 4” (Barryvox LVS, probe, shovel, and airbag backpack). However, we are also aware that some people prefer to go without an airbag – which we cover with our Nirvana and Aenergy ST Packs. In the airbag product segment, we recommend the Free product line for freeride and free-touring activities, the Tour line for touring focus, and the Pro line mainly for professionals working in the mountains. For backpacks without an airbag, the Nirvana collection is suitable for activities such as resort freeriding, off-piste freeriding, and even free-touring – while the Aenergy ST covers touring activities where the main focus is on low pack weight.
The Mammut RAS 3.0 Airbag System has been established for many years and is also used by other backpack manufacturers. What further or new developments is Mammut aiming for?
As product specialists in the avalanche safety segment, it is our general concern to ensure maximum safety in the mountains with our products. The Mammut RAS 3.0 Airbag System is an important and proven component of this, which remains in the range.
Are there opportunities to test Mammut backpacks before buying?
Mammut is always represented at local test events around the world. Specific information on these is shared on our social media channels and website. Otherwise, feel free to visit our shops (or our sales partners) and try on the products.
What measures does Mammut offer or recommend to increase the lifespan of products?
In our opinion, an outdoor product should function for as long as possible. To achieve this, we place a strong focus on material selection (robust, water-repellent, etc.) and construction already during product development. Once customers own the products, we recommend measures such as regular care (dirt removal, re-impregnation if necessary) and storage in a dry place. If something should break, we are happy to repair the product.
