new backpack time...

does anybody have any thoughts or care to share an reviews on a new touring pack? i am in the market for a new one and am sick of my gear getting wet. thanks

jon

I've been doing some research and am very intrigued with the Osprey Switch packs. Lots of cool features and what appears to be nicely thought out construction. The Avalung packs are pretty cool too, but considerably pricier. Od course, they come with a built-in Avalung!

I have a Cold Cold World Valdez I really like. It holds skis really securely, and seems solidly built. Favourite pack I've owned.

No shovel pouch though, but I suppose I could add one.

I am not sure what size you looking for. For day trips I have a Black Diamond Speed 28 which I really like. It has a very clean design which keeps it light. It is pretty small so I have to be judicious with my packing, but that means less weight and bulk on the descent. It will carry skis, but not as well as a longer pack will in terms of stability. For one or two nights I have a North Face Summit 45 which I love. It is the best pack I have ever owned. It really caries weight well.

I'm pretty satisfied with the BD Revelation 35L. It carries skies very well, and they attach/detach easily and quickly. I like the separate pocket for shovel/probe. It rides very stably downhilling, no shifting, weight very close to the back and its narrow profile lets my slide through brush during thrashing episodes. Has an access point between shoulder blades in back to allow easy access to interior without undoing top. Handy for skin glop, energy bars, whatever misc accessories you need quick access to.
Cons: helmet straps on top don't seem well thought out, could be operator error. Back compartment isn't quite roomy enough for big skins to easily fit. Tiny belt pockets hold a snack bar, but not much more. All in all, pretty minor issues.

I've been looking at the Osprey Switch and Avalung Packs as well. I've become addicted to the built-in hydration systems - which are now a must. And a recent Coulior article on the avalung (available on line) shows a pretty impressive increase in the amount of time you can keep breathing while buried (provided you get the mouth-piece in place before you're buried) - that has me thinking long and hard about the Avalung packs. The backcountry access packs are worth a look as well.

Those packs are all designed primarily for skiing - and can be used as a general use day pack. However, if you'll be using the pack more as a hiking/climbing pack, and only as an occaisional ski pack, you might consider some of the other Osprey packs. Just make sure there's at least a workable strap system to hold skiis or a board.

Bill