Pull the rip-cord on this backpack and a single–chamber, 150–liter airbag inflates instantly to help keep you safer in an avalanche. According to the company, the Float 30 pack can help prevent burial in a snow slide as well as protect the head, neck and upper body with its instantly-inflated cushioned mass.
The airbag system, which is reusable, is integrated into a ski-specific pack that weighs about 7.5 pounds when empty. In the worst case scenario, a braided steel cable with a plastic trigger handle serves as an emergency rip-cord to inflate the bag — and potentially save your life. $499, www.backcountryaccess.com
—Stephen Regenold
This product is a part of a series from a “Winter Gear Roundup” article highlighted on Gear Junkie and an accompanying column on Outside magazine this week. See all the featured products below.
2009/2010 ‘WINTER GEAR ROUNDUP’ PRODUCTS:
- Avalanche Airbag Backpack
- Helly Hansen Uber Down Coat
- Kahtoola TS snowshoes
- Columbia Heated Boots
- POC Receptor BUG Helmet
- Mountain Hardwear Heated Jackets
- ColdAvenger Balaclava
- Black Diamond Agent AvaLung Pack
- Osprey Kode 30 Backpack
- Julbo Revolution Goggle
- Kelty Gunnison Pro Tent
- Sierra Designs Drizone Down Bootie
- La Sportiva Baruntse Boots
