Ortovox Switchback 32 Ski Pack • SkiUphill

The Switchback sits in the sweet spot between a minimal day tour pack and a full alpine hauler. At 1,005g for 32L it's light enough that the pack stops being a factor on longer skin tracks, with enough volume and attachment points to handle technical objectives where you're carrying a rope, crampons, and multiple ice axes alongside the standard touring kit.

The Full Contact Light back system uses molded foam against the back rather than a rigid frame. It is stiff enough to keep the load off your spine and prevent the pack from sagging under heavy gear, breathable enough for warm spring tours and hard bootpacks. Three-point compression system pulls the load in tight for shorter days when the pack isn't full.

The back panel access lets you get into the main compartment without laying the pack down on wet snow or fighting ski attachments. Dedicated avalanche safety compartment, shoulder strap pockets, hip belt pockets, and a side compartment that fits crampons, climbing skins, and ski crampons without unpacking everything. Rope attachment and rope exit for alpine days. A-frame, D-frame, and Fast-Skifix parallel carry options for skis, plus snowboard and snowshoe attachment. Helmet net, two ice axe holders external, one internal in the safety compartment. Chest strap with signal whistle, hydration compatible. Shell is 420D recycled Cordura plus 100D polyester on the sides.