Burton [ak] 31L Snowboard Backpack 2015-2016

As you’d expect with products in Burton’s backcountry-specific range, the Burton [ak] 31L backpack is a serious bit of kit. Encased in the multi-layered Ripstop fabric, you’ll find an intricate system that you’ll really want to get to grips with before you set off on your next mission.

True to the Alaskan traditions of hiking and sledging to hard-to-reach spots, the [ak]31L pack features vertical board carrying straps as well as a slot behind the solid back padding where you can slide your board in and carry it horizontally.

The main part of the pack has multiple access points, from the simple side zip on the right hand side to a full length zipper that runs across the top of the pack, and all the way down the left hand side. Internally there’s then a drawstring-enclosed compartment, as well as labelled slots for all your avalanche gear, and a long side pocket offers even easier access for poles, water bottles, or any other essentials. On the top you have a handy fleece-lined goggle pocket, and then there are even a few secure external draws for poles or ice-axes if you need them.

Ergonomic shoulder straps and waist-strap padding make the whole thing hug your body in a way that many other packs don’t, and with that selection of features there’s no doubt that this will deliver the goods when circumstances turn against you.
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DC Gunner Snowboard Backpack 2015-2016

A great-looking resort backpack with capabilities for a few backcountry adventures too, the DC Gunner is sure to be one that you’ll get a lot of use out of.

Slightly less technical than the super high-end Alaska-dedicated packs, it’s 100% Polyester Oxford outer houses a very reasonable 23 litres of space, with multiple stash spots for all the kit you use day-to-day, as well as a dedicated space for your shovel and probe when you need it. There are a few sturdy external straps for carrying your board, and a padded waist strap which is removable if you’re wearing the bag in more casual conditions.

The main compartment is roomy with a sleeve for your hydration pack, and as well as the good-size avy kit compartment there’s a third zip-up space on the outside, as well as two buttoned cargo pockets.
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Jones Higher 30L Snowboard Backpack 2015-2016

Jones’ reputation for backcountry goods is understandably up there with the best. They’re designed around the needs of riders like Jeremy Jones himself, which means they need to be ready for some of the most intense conditions in the world, and the Jones Higher 30L backcountry pack is no exception.

It’s unlikely you’re going to find yourself wanting here, regardless of the situation. 30 litres of space will be suitable for most riding situations without being too bulky, and the strap and storage options provide pretty much everything you could need from a bag.

Moulded padding in the back panel and slim padded S-shaped shoulder straps provide plenty of comfort, while two padded hip pockets on the waist strap give support as well as a handy additional storage slots for small objects.

A super-lightweight aluminium frame supports the body of the bag, and the main compartment is accessible via the back panel as well as through the full length zip. Inside it contains an insulated hydro pocket with a sleeve that runs down to a zippable pouch on the front of the shoulder. The two front pockets provide a fleece-lined space for goggles, and a separate space for avalanche tools – all encased in PVC-free recycled 450d fabric.

If you’re looking for the same backpack but with a dedicated space for an airbag system, the Jones Higher 30L RAS variation does exactly that.
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Quiksilver Nitrited Snowboard Backpack 2015-2016

The Quiksilver Nitrited backpack is a compact 20-litre unit for days out on the hill, that could easily be used around town too.

It features three asymmetrical zip pockets, as well as board-carrying straps and lightweight padding throughout. The shoulder straps are comfortable without too much complication, and a stripped-back waist and elastic chest fastening will come in handy when you’re riding.

The main storage space has room for a hydration pack/laptop, and the front pocket could easily house a shovel and probe. Or a whole bunch of stationary; there are slots for both! Finally, a fleece-lined pocket provides adequate space at the top of the pack, so you can stash your goggles with ease.
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Quiksilver Platinum Snowboard Backpack 2015-2016

Travis Rice’s model of choice, the Quiksilver Platinum backpack is sure to be a winner. It comes this year in a new Military Green colourway, but retains all of the features that have helped it win awards in years gone by.

The low profile designs spreads the 24-litre capacity of the pack evenly across your back, with a well-padded panel between you and the contents to keep everything comfy. Then a substantial but slim padded waist support helps to hold everything in place, as well as housing a small zipped pouch for items like your phone.

On the shoulder straps you’ll find a neoprene sleeve on the right that’ll keep your radio to hand, and a zippable slot on the left that leads into the main compartments – ideal for use with the mouthpiece of a hydration pack. The chest strap even has a small whistle to help you find your buddies.

The main storage space can either be accessed using the full-length zip (dispelling the need for rummaging in emergencies) or through a smaller top zip that also houses a padded, fleece-lined goggle pouch. Inside you’ll find a sleeve for a hydration pack or laptop, and one for your avalanche probe too, as well as an easily-accessible zip pocket for smaller items. The secondary pocket then offers a perfect spot for smaller shovels, and is even lined with tips on how to build a kicker.

Finally, on the outside you’ll find two straps for board-carrying, as well as a strong selection of loops for holding all the extras you could possibly need.
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Ride Messiah Snowboard Backpack 2015-2016

The Ride Messiah pack could well be the perfect solution for riders who want a day-pack that’ll take you to the hill, and then hold it down when you’re there too.

Velcro-down side straps flip out to provide room for your boots on approach, and there are horizontal and vertical board-carrying options to get you to your drop point; then once you’re there, the 23-litre capacity pack should provide adequate room for your street wear.

Unlike the more backcountry-orientated packs, this doesn’t have a dedicated spot for avalanche protection gear, but a back panel zip into the main compartment does offer quick and easy access to your gear should you need it, and there’s a space for a hydration pack in there too. A separate lined goggle pocket also provides a spot to keep your optics at hand, while the panel on the front will take the weight of your board when hiking.
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Volcom Automation Snowboard Backpack 2015-2016

Volcom’s Automation pack fulfils the stylish simplicity slot in our backpack choices. You won’t find specific avalanche kit storage here, or back panel access, but if you want something for day-to-day use that you can still take on the hill, this could well be for you.

Designed with two main pockets and two side pockets, you’ll be able to stash almost anything in its 37-litre capacity shell; and handy extras like a chest strap and sunglasses pocket on the shoulder strap are sure to give added value when you’re in resort.

The padded back panel and shoulder straps keep things comfy, and the large top loop makes it easy to carry even if you’re in mittens.
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