Snowboard backpack: Tips on the right size, carrying systems and more

A rucksack for snowboarding, of course. However, models for hiking differ from those for winter sports. They have been optimised for the requirements of snowboarders. Several factors play a role when choosing a suitable backpack:

• Material: First and foremost, robust textiles such as nylon or polyamide are used. They not only withstand mechanical stress from falls or the sharp edges of snowboards or rocks, but are also weatherproof. Appropriate rain/snow protection also helps to ensure that the contents remain dry.
• Fit and carrying systems: Backpacks for snowboarding have been optimised so that they do not restrict typical movement patterns. There are also carrying systems that distribute the weight on the shoulders, back and hips in such a way that the weight of the backpack does not become too much of a disruptive factor during turns or jumps. When buying, make sure that the rucksack suits your ergonomics. Adjustable hip and chest straps are a good sign. Depending on the model, the back length can also be adjusted. Also make sure that the carrying system is a body contact back system, which ensures that the weight lies close to your back.
• Compartmentalisation/storage space: Snowboard backpacks for the backcountry have storage compartments for avalanche equipment and offer other useful spaces to keep items such as goggles safe and dry.
• Straps: Additional straps on the outside ensure that poles, ice axe, helmet and even the snowboard itself can be stowed away safely.
• Optional features: Depending on the brand and model, there are also hydration systems where the hydration bladder is integrated into the backpack and the tube can be routed to the front via the shoulder strap. Small openings then guarantee that the drinking tube is fed cleanly through the backpack to the front. However, there are also models that have integrated protectors.

Which model is right for you depends on your intended use. Where and what will you be riding in the future? If you'll be spending a lot of time in the park, a backpack with a built-in protector may be the right choice. If you want to climb the peaks on your doorstep under your own steam in the future, you may need additional storage space for the necessary equipment.

So if you are unsure, we look forward to seeing you in one of our shops near you. In addition to advice on equipment, our experienced staff can also give you information on exciting tours in the local area.

The right size is crucial when choosing a suitable snowboard rucksack. You may have already noticed this when looking at the shelves: Backpack sizes are often given in litres. The volume refers to the capacity of the backpack. But who needs how many litres?

• day on the slopes (approx. 15-20 litres): If you spend a day in the ski resort, you can usually manage with a "small" rucksack for the essentials. There's room for a first aid kit, a mid-layer or a change of shirt, as well as a drink, snacks, cash and your mobile phone.
• Slopes and off-piste (20-30 litres): A bit of slopes, a bit of freeriding - but everything still lift-assisted? Then you should choose a rucksack that is a little larger and offers space for avalanche equipment and additional safety equipment (bivouac sack, headlamp, etc.).
• Splitboarding/freeriding (30 litres): If you want untracked slopes in front of you, you also need to pack skins, poles and sometimes even a climbing harness, ropes, ice axe and a change of clothes.
• Multi-day tours (40< litres): Depending on the effort involved - whether it's overnight stays in the backcountry or in huts - there needs to be considerably more space on your back during the tour. Tent, sleeping bag, sleeping mat, but also food, cooker and cartridges require more storage space in the backpack.

In addition to the capacity, the back length is also decisive for a snowboard rucksack. Depending on the manufacturer, you usually have the choice between a longer and shorter length. If there are various sizes to choose from, it's best to grab a tape measure and a friend to determine your size.

How to measure correctly:

1. Start at approximately the height of the seventh cervical vertebra, which forms the transition from the cervical to the thoracic spine.
2. The measurement is taken up to the iliac crest, which you can feel with your thumb when you place your hands on your waist.
3. Make a note of the value and compare it with the size charts of the brands to find out which one fits best.

Important: If the results are between two sizes, the larger size is usually the better choice.

• A padded hip belt guarantees optimum weight distribution and relief for the shoulders. The belt also creates a close connection between the rucksack and you.
• The chest strap ensures that the shoulder straps stay in place and prevents them from slipping during intensive movement.
• Lashing straps on the side of the rucksack ensure that the weight of the backpack is close to your body and does not get in the way when cornering.
• Backpacks designed for loads between 9 and 30 kilograms usually have an internal frame that provides stability.
• Adjustable back length: Depending on the manufacturer, there are models where you can adjust the back length to suit your proportions.

Note: When buying a snowboard backpack, make sure that it is a body contact back system. Although the air circulates less on the back, the close fit guarantees better performance on the snowboard than with a mesh back.

If you are planning to go off-piste with your board, you will have already thought about avalanche airbags, their function and what you should look out for. These are backpacks that have been specially developed for freeriding. In the event of an avalanche, a kind of balloon inflates in a matter of seconds. The larger volume increases the chance of floating on top of the avalanche. At this point, however, it is important to note that such a backpack is no guarantee of survival and is no substitute for the necessary knowledge and training. This type of snowboard backpack is also available in different sizes and with different features. Our RENTertainers look forward to seeing you in one of our 800+ shops if you have any questions about the systems.

Before you pack your snowboard rucksack for a day on the slopes, you should take a look at the weather forecast. Make sure you have the right layers of clothing on and take them with you. Although you always have the chance of finding shelter in a hut or lift station when snowboarding in the ski resort, you should pack in such a way that you can protect yourself from the weather, at least in the short term.

• Change of shirt and/or mid layer
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• First aid kid
• Mobile phone
• Analog map
• Cash
• Interchangeable glasses for Google
• Water
• Snacks

The volume plays an important role in the backcountry to ensure that your rucksack has enough space for everything you need. Before buying, think about whether you prefer to go freeriding with lift support, tackle day tours under your own steam or even plan multi-day tours. The optimum volume depends on this decision:

• Models with a capacity of up to 30 litres are used for one-day activities. In addition to snacks, a first aid kit, drinks and a change of clothes, there is also enough space for avalanche equipment.
• Backpacks with a volume of 30 to over 70 litres offer more space for your equipment over several days.

The following contents are recommended for a day in the backcountry:

• First aid kit
• Bivouac sack
• Mobile phone incl. power bank
• Sunscreen, lip balm
• Sunglasses
• Interchangeable glasses for Google
• Drinks
• Snacks such as protein bars, trail mix or sandwiches
• Spare and change of clothes
• Avalanche equipment
• Second pair of gloves
• Spare cap
• Headlamp
• Analogue maps
• Pocket knife/multitool
• Lighter
• Cash
• Personal documents (passport, proof of insurance)

Before you get into your bindings, make sure you have everything you might need for your day in the snow. If you are unsure about what to bring along, our RENTertainers will be happy to advise you. Many of our staff are experienced winter sports enthusiasts who can help you put together your equipment for the requirements on site. We look forward to seeing you in one of our more than 800 shops worldwide.

Extreme snowboarders are riding off-piste and are therefore outside the secured ski area. To cope with the alpine dangers in challenging terrain, extreme snowboarders often carry harnesses, ropes, ice axes and equipment for rappeling in their backpacks in addition to the appropriate avalanche equipment. On top, there is also food, a change of clothes and equipment that is needed in between. The longer the tour, the more accessories.

It makes sense, since the rucksack has space for many items that are useful on a day on the mountain. These could be interchangeable lenses for your goggles to react to changing weather conditions, sunscreen an extra layer of clothing or your mobile phone and keys.

Complete equipment includes the snowboard, bindings and boots, weatherproof clothing, base and mid layer, gloves, hat, helmet and suitable snowboard goggles. The rucksack is often underestimated. It should offer enough space for important items, which can vary depending on the usage scenario. For a day on the slopes, it is advisable to pack drinks, snacks, sunscreen a first aid kit, possibly change lenses for your goggles, sunglasses and a small multi-tool for adjusting bindings.

If you are travelling in the backcountry, you should also take avalanche equipment such as an avalanche transceiver, probe and shovel, a headlamp, additional layers of clothing, a GPS device and a map as well as an avalanche airbag rucksack.