Materials, Construction and Features

When deciding to buy either an air-canister system or a battery/fan-operated one, there are pros and cons to both. However, it’s easy to see why the latter is so popular these days.

For starters, you can test it as much as you want – just deploy the system, then manually deflate and re-pack it. Rinse and repeat until you feel completely confident in both firing it up, and packing it down – after all, if you have a narrow escape you may run into trouble again on your way back to safety, so knowing how to re-prime the pack is a must. There’s an auto-deflate function too, which in a burial situation can create a potentially life-saving air pocket that buys the search team more time.

Any anxiety about whether or not it’s charged up and ready to go is removed by the smartphone app (from backcountry specialists PIEPS) which gives you a real-time report, and even allows you to update the software on the go. There are also status lights on the trigger itself, which can be set to either shoulder strap based on your preference.

As for storage space, 25 litres is enough for all your backcountry essentials, and some cleverly-placed pockets make it easy to access key bits and bobs. 10-litre and 35-litre packs are also available separately to the airbag system, so you can change it up based on your plans. There’s also another 25-litre version with splitboard-specific carry straps.

The whole thing weighs in at just under 3kg, which is more than most canister-based systems, but still isn’t a big ask for your back.

“The whole thing weighs in at just under 3kg, which is more than most canister-based systems, but still isn’t a big ask for your back”

Roundup

It’s no small amount of money we’re talking about here – but ‘worth it’ has never been in doubt. The Black Diamond Jetforce Pro 25L avalanche backpack is a no-frills airbag system that puts the focus firmly on quality and safety – plus its user-friendliness has likely brought more people into the world of airbags, and that is something to be applauded.

If you’re already clued up on how to navigate the backcountry, and are looking for an extra bit of insurance against the dangers that lurk out there, this is the one to go for.

“It’s no small amount of money we’re talking about here – but ‘worth it’ has never been in doubt”

Pros:

• A straightforward system that is quick, effective and easy to use
• Multiple tests and real-time information via app offer additional peace of mind

Cons:

• It’s a little heavier than an air canister-based system