by Stein, Eric's Son
Packs
Whether due to the exigencies of winter weather or the
vagaries of snow conditions, almost all skiers find they
need to carry more than can conveniently be stuffed in
a pocket. This is where packs come in. Packs enable you
to carry what you need in an efficient and comfortable
way. The following three types of pack are most used:
beltpack, daypack, and tourpack.
Beltpacks are the smallest packs and the best choice
if you don't have to carry a lot of bulky items. Their
primary advantage is that they ride low on your body and
don't shift around, so they will not adversely affect
your balance and skiing. The main items most often carried
in a beltpack are a wax kit (or Speedcote, if you are
a fan of waxless skis), a water bottle and snack, and
a pocket camera. Beltpacks range in capacity from small
to gargantuan. It's best not to choose one that is too
large. Make sure that the pack does not bulge out to the
side, where it will interfere with your arm swing. I like
a pack where a water bottle (or two) can be carried externally.
This makes it easier to take a drink, which you should
do often when you are actively skiing. A small pocket
in which you can secure your car keys is also desirable.
Make sure the belt is padded and wide enough so that it
won't dig into your hips. One beltpack I like has a foldout
compartment with shoulderstraps that converts it into
a backpack; the extra space is handy for storing a windbreaker
or sweater.
Daypacks are for when you require greater carrying capacity
because of uncertain or changing weather, because you
will be out so long that you need extra food and water,
or for safety reasons. The key features to look for in
a daypack are that it: fits the contours of the body well,
is narrow enough to allow full range of arm motion, keeps
the load close to the body, has a belt to keep the pack
from swaying around, possesses a variety of external pockets
so things can be easily accessed, and is waterproof or
at least water resistant.
Tourpacks are for overnight or weekend ski trips or when
you are carrying supplies for a group day ski. The main
difference between a daypack and a tourpack is the amount
of material that the pack can comfortably carry. The other
difference is that tourpacks often have special features
designed for the activities associated with longer tours.
These include slots for carrying skis, and attachment
points for crampons and rope. A tourpack will have all
of the features found on a daypack, plus the following:
a sternum strap, internal pockets or dividers to stabilize
loads, and the shoulder straps attached close together
and high on the pack to prevent the pack from shifting
as you ski.
When you load a pack, keep heavy items low and close
to your back. Put frequently used items on top or in external
pockets.
