Reviews: Other Gear

  

"Other Stuff": Gear Reviews

 

Two Ski Packs from Backcountry Access

The Stash Pack and Stash Pack bc

 

After using these two ski packs for several months, in winter, spring and summer conditions, BT and I are here to tell you this: they rock. From the innovative hydration tube shoulder strap "stash pocket" that keeps the tube from freezing, to well thought out ski carrying systems, to the perfectly designed internal storage pockets, it's clear these packs are made by backcountry skiers for backcountry skiers, with a full understanding of their special needs.

We have used these packs in near and below zero Fahrenheit conditions several times this season and yes, the tube stayed clear. This feature alone makes the Stash Packs unique and very worthy, but there's much more. The Stash Pack bc swallows all of the usual winter essentials for both backcountry and inbounds/ out of bounds jaunts plus camera gear, no problem. The smaller Stash pack is a perfect size for short forays and spring skiing. The internal pockets of the bc model are designed to hold a shovel blade on the main compartment flap (obviating the need to fill the pack just to give it body, by the way) and an avalanche probe and shovel handle on the back wall. In the spring they hold a can of mosquito repellent and a bottle of beer quite nicely too!

  The bc model transports skis better than any pack we have ever used. In addition to the usual two compression strap ski holders, there is a third pair of straps located at the very top of the pack. These extra straps hold the skis right where you want them, the boards don't tip back or move around or require constant readjustment. The top straps use velcro closures and have a wide patch of durable material sewn on to protect them from sharp ski edges. One note, the upper straps could be a little longer to more easily accommodate the fat boards of today and tomorrow. Although they work fine as designed, they are close to their limit with our Jaks. The smaller Stash Pack is designed to carry skis diagonally, which it does very well, even fat boards.

 

As the name suggests, the heart of these packs is their unique hydration system and the stash pocket for the tube. The 2,000 cubic inch (32 liter) Stash bc will carry a 100 oz. (3 liter) optional water bladder and the 1,000 c.i. Stash Pack holds a 70 oz. bladder. The water is carried in a pocket located between the main compartment and the skier's back. A cord keeps the top of the bladder from collapsing as the bladder empties, so the water stays accessible throughout the day.

Conclusion: Two tips way up. The Stash Packs are designed specifically for winter use, addressing an important issue faced by cold weather travelers: keeping a water supply thawed and easy to access. Staying hydrated is as important in cold conditions as it is in warm weather, and the Stash Packs make it easy. By also incorporating key backcountry skiing features such as probe and shovel compartments and the best ski carrying system we have tried, Backcountry Access has gone over the top, providing packs weighted specifically towards our sport. And it's probably fair to say that keeping the hydration tube free of ice even makes winter skiing safer, as they like to say in their ads---it's not just hyperbole. These are kick ass packs. Check them out online at the Backcountry Access website or your local dealer.

   

 

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