Your Everyday Touring Pack

[concierge]

I'm always interested in new gear and supporting mags, but not sure if this sounds like the pack for me. Happy to be proven wrong though one you have more details.

Ample organization tends to mean lots of little pockets which always tend to have me looking all over for gear, and back panel access is a non starter. I much prefer the top loader main compartment with little to no additional pockets so I can stuff gear in as I please. Side zip means I can strategically store my water bottle, extra layer, etc. without needing to rummage around too much.

My ideal pack would be a 35L top loaders like the cirque with a size zip, larger hip belt pocket, and some trail running vest style organization on the shoulder straps for snacks, water, etc. Separate avy storage, helmet carry, and decent ski carry and I'm sold.

ey_allen, I appreciate the point of view. The pack is a top loader with a cinch, but accompanied with back panel access as well. The back panel essentially has the same functionality of a side zip when you want quick access to a bottle as long as you put the bottle to the size you zip to, but gives you full access to the pack when you need it and isnt blocked by an A-frame ski carry. In terms of too many pockets there are just 2 small pockets. One on the outside for snacks, etc. and one on the inside foe the small things less frequently accessed like GPS device, repair kit, sandwich, etc.

[ey_allen]

ey_allen, I appreciate the point of view. The pack is a top loader with a cinch, but accompanied with back panel access as well. The back panel essentially has the same functionality of a side zip when you want quick access to a bottle as long as you put the bottle to the size you zip to, but gives you full access to the pack when you need it and isnt blocked by an A-frame ski carry. In terms of too many pockets there are just 2 small pockets. One on the outside for snacks, etc. and one on the inside foe the small things less frequently accessed like GPS device, repair kit, sandwich, etc.

Ah alright I misunderstood. Looking forward to more details. Sounds like it could be worth considering.

[jsnowut]

Guilty as charged on the avalung - and yes I am sure I get laughed out of the bc every day. But just acquired an Alpride bag equipped pack and hoping to transition to that. We'll see how that goes - but I am all for margins of safety where I can get 'em.

[rod9301]

Have you used this one? I was specifically curious about how well it carried skis.

I had a blue ice pack similar to this one, and it did not carry very well

Sent from my moto g 5G using Tapatalk

[waveshello]

I had a blue ice pack similar to this one, and it did not carry very well

Sent from my moto g 5G using Tapatalk

I skied with some new friends this spring and one gal had the firecrest. The diagonal/side ski attachment seemed fiddly and she was struggling with it during transitions.

[Benneke10]

I have the Firecrest 28, and have friends with the Firecrest 38. The pack is fine for smaller, lighter loads but it is very floppy and does not carry weight well. The Firecrest 38 for a heavier duty touring pack doesn't make sense to me.

[mr_pretzel]

I wrote about this farther back in the thread so apologies to those that are re-reading here. I am launching a new pack brand in October, but my pack will be pricier than the Cirque. Here is a sneak peak of why I think I have created a superior product than the Cirque, Snowskioski, Descentionist and Kume 38:
- It is a 42L pack that expands to 50L, but only weighs 1080g and is strippable to 920g. This makes it light enough to use for shorter tours, but large enough to flex up to a hut trip.
- It is more durable. The fabric I am using is 2x more tear resistant than DCF150 (what Hyperlight uses) and 8x more abrasion resistant. The fabric that the Cirque uses is weaker than DCF150.
- Top load access and back panel access.
- It has a lot more features than the Cirque, Decscentionist or Snowskioski such as removable back panel, removable aluminum frame, back panel access ( I think this is superior to side zip), a significantly better helmet carry (so you can trust putting your crampons inside your helmet), ice tool carry that keeps the picks covered, more comfortable shoulder straps, a better diaganonal ski carry than the Cirque, direct access to avy tools from the outside of the pack, big elastic hip belt pocket, ample organization and much more.
- I think I have created the right balance of weight and features to build the fastest pack. I have 2 pockets for stashing skins, snacks, goggles, etc. that don't require a zipper to get into.

The company is focused on building product for the user group that is on here that the bigger brands don't address because the market is too small. I am using the same factories as some of the leading larger brands, but since I don't have 300+ employees I can make product for more niche markets. We are launching with 1 pack this season and have some extremely exciting products in the pipeline for winter 24/25. The company is called Raide (means steep in French). I hope some fellow mags can support the brand so that we can keep making rad gear for the people the big brands overlook.

200 ultra? 400? New x version? White or black?
Frame stays seated in the hipbelt?

Very excited about this! A leak would persuade me from staying away from the hmg just saying hehe

[rockymtn]

ARC Rush 42 bought from the outlet!

[cravenmorhead]

I looked at custom-ordering a custom pack from Otter Body/Alpine Threadworks/Alpine Luddites. After I fiddled around with options for a while I realized that the Descensionist was really close to my ideal pack - roll top loader, side zip, external avy tool pocket, A-frame and diagonal carry, hip pockets, light. I'd prefer running-vest style shoulder strap pockets and pick sheaths for axes, but that's about it.

[concierge]

200 ultra? 400? New x version? White or black?
Frame stays seated in the hipbelt?

Very excited about this! A leak would persuade me from staying away from the hmg just saying hehe

The pack is using the new Ultra400X and is available in White and Black with 2 back panel lengths in each colorway. The frame goes into where the hip pads are sewn into the back panel, but is removable. If I thought HMG was meeting the needs of skiers I wouldn't have put myself through the financial stress of starting a company, but I got to the point where I just had to start developing packs. If you dm me I am happy to share more details if there is any chance you'd be a customer!

I looked at custom-ordering a custom pack from Otter Body/Alpine Threadworks/Alpine Luddites. After I fiddled around with options for a while I realized that the Descensionist was really close to my ideal pack - roll top loader, side zip, external avy tool pocket, A-frame and diagonal carry, hip pockets, light. I'd prefer running-vest style shoulder strap pockets and pick sheaths for axes, but that's about it.

I think the Descenionist 40 is a great pack, but I really don't like the ice axe carry and I don't think it is a 40L pack. Maybe it is 40L with the rolltop fully expanded. I personally don't think I could fit all my stuff for a hut trip in there. My pack is 200g lighter and fits all my stuff for a hut trip. I also much prefer back panel access to side zip, but I know that is more personal preference.


For the broader thread, I am surprised how many people are asking for a water bottle holder on the shoulder strap. I love hearing this feedback. It is something I considered and prototyped, but ultimately decided not to do for a few reasons. I could potentially add it back since I already prototyped it. A design philosophy I went with on the pack is being "anti christmas tree" meaning I want the pack to be super clean on the outside and not have things hanging off of it. So I don't have tons of attachment points like other packs have. I dropped the water bottle holder because it added weight for something not 100% necessary, made the pack less clean on the outside and I just don't love having the bulk of a water bottle on my chest on a tour. Hearing how important this is to others definitely makes me rethink that stance.

[Benneke10]

For the broader thread, I am surprised how many people are asking for a water bottle holder on the shoulder strap. I love hearing this feedback. It is something I considered and prototyped, but ultimately decided not to do for a few reasons. I could potentially add it back since I already prototyped it. A design philosophy I went with on the pack is being "anti christmas tree" meaning I want the pack to be super clean on the outside and not have things hanging off of it. So I don't have tons of attachment points like other packs have. I dropped the water bottle holder because it added weight for something not 100% necessary, made the pack less clean on the outside and I just don't love having the bulk of a water bottle on my chest on a tour. Hearing how important this is to others definitely makes me rethink that stance.

It makes sense to have an attachment point for a bottle holder, which adds negligible weight and a lot of utility. I LOVE the shoulder bottle holder on my Mammut Spindrift pack, which is a stowable stretchy pouch that performs better than aftermarket holders from Camp/Dynafit/Etc because it hold the bottle snugly against the strap and it adds negligible weight and bulk. For me, I prefer to have a soft flask in my jacket pocket because it is annoying to have the weight and bulk of a bottle on the backpack strap, and the bottle nozzle will freeze in winter temps. However, I do a lot of spring touring where I'm not wearing a jacket and in those scenarios the bottle on the shoulder strap is the best solution.

[meter-man]

For the broader thread, I am surprised how many people are asking for a water bottle holder on the shoulder strap. I love hearing this feedback. It is something I considered and prototyped, but ultimately decided not to do for a few reasons. I could potentially add it back since I already prototyped it. A design philosophy I went with on the pack is being "anti christmas tree" meaning I want the pack to be super clean on the outside and not have things hanging off of it. So I don't have tons of attachment points like other packs have. I dropped the water bottle holder because it added weight for something not 100% necessary, made the pack less clean on the outside and I just don't love having the bulk of a water bottle on my chest on a tour. Hearing how important this is to others definitely makes me rethink that stance.

Thanks for the constructive thinking.

For me, touring in the Sierra Nevada (California) 90% of my touring days, the main things I want to have access to during an ascent (1-3 hours) are water/liquid, snacks, lip balm, navigation/phone/camera. Lip balm and phone can go in my pants pocket. So, just need access to liquids and food. Everything else can wait until the top.

Hydration hoses freeze so those don't work well. Personally, I don't like the hard plastic bottles on shoulder straps - those are bulky and annoying. I use and prefer collapsible water bottles/bladders. Those are great and far less obtrusive for skinning and skiing. They fit great in the Cirque 22 shoulder straps.

On that note, I strongly recommend you check out Cirque 22 shoulder/vest straps for inspiration. They are a bit more vest-y than your design, but certain design elements (stretchy pocket, shockcord loops for gloves) could be incorporated in more "normal" shoulder straps.

Also, for me, a zip pocket on the hip strap (or two - better yet) is mandatory. Do that plus some way to carry water on your straps - A+ for me.

[concierge]

It makes sense to have an attachment point for a bottle holder, which adds negligible weight and a lot of utility. I LOVE the shoulder bottle holder on my Mammut Spindrift pack, which is a stowable stretchy pouch that performs better than aftermarket holders from Camp/Dynafit/Etc because it hold the bottle snugly against the strap and it adds negligible weight and bulk. For me, I prefer to have a soft flask in my jacket pocket because it is annoying to have the weight and bulk of a bottle on the backpack strap, and the bottle nozzle will freeze in winter temps. However, I do a lot of spring touring where I'm not wearing a jacket and in those scenarios the bottle on the shoulder strap is the best solution.

The spindrift pack looks well executed. I do have an attachment point for a bottle holder on the pack. It is just 10mm webbing that is horizontal across the strap so it should be compatible with most add on holders.

[lazyasian]

Thanks for the constructive thinking.

For me, touring in the Sierra Nevada (California) 90% of my touring days, the main things I want to have access to during an ascent (1-3 hours) are water/liquid, snacks, lip balm, navigation/phone/camera. Lip balm and phone can go in my pants pocket. So, just need access to liquids and food. Everything else can wait until the top.

Hydration hoses freeze so those don't work well. Personally, I don't like the hard plastic bottles on shoulder straps - those are bulky and annoying. I use and prefer collapsible water bottles/bladders. Those are great and far less obtrusive for skinning and skiing. They fit great in the Cirque 22 shoulder straps.

On that note, I strongly recommend you check out Cirque 22 shoulder/vest straps for inspiration. They are a bit more vest-y than your design, but certain design elements (stretchy pocket, shockcord loops for gloves) could be incorporated in more "normal" shoulder straps.

Also, for me, a zip pocket on the hip strap (or two - better yet) is mandatory. Do that plus some way to carry water on your straps - A+ for me.

Fully agrees on this. Any pack without two hip belt pockets is a non starter for me these days. A water bottle holder on the straps isn't quite mandatory but is a huge perk, and can be done for only 10g or so each side. Not exactly a huge sacrifice in terms of weight!


Sent from my iPhone using TGR Forums

[North]

The spindrift pack looks well executed. I do have an attachment point for a bottle holder on the pack. It is just 10mm webbing that is horizontal across the strap so it should be compatible with most add on holders.

I think this is the way. Keeps it simple and configurable. I haven't used an external water bottle holder because I'm a camel and typically only do water/food during transitions. Webbing strap works great for attaching a radio mic. Excited to see what you come up with.

[tang]

I'm also camel-ish but would like an option to put a small soft bottle in easy reach - and would never use a hydration bladder with a hose... just picture it freezing, leaking, puncturing, etc.

[concierge]

Hey everyone, I had some dm's asking where people can get notified when we launch. I put a basic coming soon page up. You can enter your email to be notified of the launch at raideresearch.com. I won't be sending out frequent marketing and take not spamming customers seriously. I really appreciate the support from fellow mags and hope to continue building great products for the type of skier here, that I feel the big brands overlook. We have some really cool stuff in the pipeline for winter 2024 in apparel (a great softshell pant finally) and avalanche safety devices that will depend on doing well this season. I will put a more formal post up when we launch around the first week of October.

[North]

Fuck yeah. As this forum ages and inevitably careens towards the EpicSki singularity I'm constantly asking myself why I still spend time here.

The answer of course is so that I can get the jump on niche gear developments like Raide and stay 3 steps ahead of my gear obsessed friends.

[kootenayskier]

Hey everyone, I had some dm's asking where people can get notified when we launch. I put a basic coming soon page up. You can enter your email to be notified of the launch at raideresearch.com. I won't be sending out frequent marketing and take not spamming customers seriously. I really appreciate the support from fellow mags and hope to continue building great products for the type of skier here, that I feel the big brands overlook. We have some really cool stuff in the pipeline for winter 2024 in apparel (a great softshell pant finally) and avalanche safety devices that will depend on doing well this season. I will put a more formal post up when we launch around the first week of October.

Subscribed. Ski touring packs and softshell pants are a couple of my obsessions. I’m interested in what you come up with.

[zlatham]

Same, subscribed.


Sent from my iPhone using TGR Forums

[John_B]

So you're saying that I can finally upgrade from my 15 year old softshell Patagonia pants?

[thefortrees]

So you're saying that I can finally upgrade from my 15 year old softshell Patagonia pants?

15 years on one pair of pants? Do you only ski 5 days a year?

[John_B]

15 years on one pair of pants? Do you only ski 5 days a year?

I'm half man half Aquaseal at this point. And I probably average out to 25 days a year over that span but predominantly touring.

[I've seen black diamonds!]

Have you used this one? I was specifically curious about how well it carried skis.

Yes, I've used it for 50 days or so. Ski carry is good for the weight of the pack. It also has skimo style carry which is nice briefly carrying skis on your back (you can do it without taking the pack off) but not very comfortable and takes some practice. Overall I think the pack has has an excellent design. BUT the fit is not very adjustable and IIRC it only comes in one size. I have a slightly longer than average torso. I lent the pack to a taller friend one day and he couldn't get it to fit right.

I've seen complaints online about the top not opening wide enough. I don't get it. Maybe they gave shipped some with a draw strong that is too short? I've been using top loaders for decades and this one works just fine.

[concierge]

Thanks for those of you who subscribed! It means a lot!

For those just seeing the thread now you can read the overview of the pack I am developing earlier in the thread and put your email in at raideresearch.com to be notified on launch.

Subscribed. Ski touring packs and softshell pants are a couple of my obsessions. I’m interested in what you come up with.

kootenayskier, I don't want to hijack a pack thread with softshell talk so please DM me with what you would like to see in a softshell pant.