5 Best Snowboard Backpacks: Finding the Perfect Suit to Carry Your Gear

You know you love snowboarding. You’ve been doing it for years now, and your best friends are the slopes that will never let you down. But there comes a time when every rider realizes they need to invest in gear-specific backpacks if they want to keep their board nearby without carrying it up the mountain.

Whether you need a drink or snack at the top of a long ascent or an extra layer to stave off hypothermia on those cold days, these best snowboard backpacks will help make your ride more enjoyable than ever before! Please read through our list below and find out which one is best for you!

That’s a great question!

In all honesty, if you’re learning to ride or have been on the slopes for a year or two, bringing your gear with you from trail to the trail isn’t necessary.

However, once you start hitting those deep powder runs and spending hours at a time in the mountains (or even taking side trips between lifts), it’s best to have a snowboarding backpack with you to keep your best stuff nearby.

What Do I Need in a Best Snowboard Backpack?

The best snowboard backpacks are durable, lightweight, and offer plenty of storage space for all the necessities that go along with hitting the slopes. If you’re looking for extras like built-in safety lights, pockets for your goggles and snowboarding helmet, or a way to keep your best gear dry on those snowy days (or wet on the ones you’re not fortunate enough to ride in), be sure they come standard with whatever best snowboard backpack you choose.

We recommend reading through a few of these critical aspects to learn more about the different types to make an informed decision.

Size – Snowboarding backpacks come in all different sizes, so be sure you pick one that matches your needs. If you’re looking to make a fashion statement with your best gear on the slopes (or carry around an extra pair of shoes), choose something more prominent. However, if you’re looking for something more compact that can hold your board and a few small accessories, check out the best snowboard backpacks with smaller dimensions.

Durability: You want to make sure whatever backpack you choose is made of sturdy material without being too heavy or bulky. If you’ve ever dealt with flimsy zippers before, you know that they can be more trouble than their worth. Material like polyester, ripstop nylon, Cordura (Dyneema), and ballistic are all great options for keeping your best snowboard backpack safe without weighing it down.

Accessibility: Snowboarding backpacks come with many different features to make them easy to use at a moment’s notice. Some come with a hydration pack system for easy access to water on the slopes. In contrast, others offer dedicated compartments and pockets just for your snowboarding helmet or goggles.

Fashion/ Style: As much as we all love being seen in our best gear, style is often the last priority when it comes to what you keep inside your best snowboard backpack. However, if you want to make a fashion statement at the top of your favorite run, look for those with plenty of color options and features like reflective accents.

Capacity: Some backpacks come with just enough space for the necessities, while others are made to hold your board along with all of its accessories. If you’re looking for something that can go on multi-day snowboarding excursions without running out of room or weight capacity, be sure to check how much each one holds before making a purchase.

Carrying Style: There are several different ways to take a snowboarding backpack, but the most important thing is that you’re comfortable. Those who prefer not to wear their best snowboard backpack throughout their entire day of riding (or don’t want it swinging around as they move) look for options with removable straps or other features that make carrying easier.

Price: With all the different options out there, you’re bound to find a snowboarding backpack that fits your budget. Remember: just because it’s cheaper doesn’t mean it has to be of poor quality.

Fit- It’s essential to make sure you choose the best snowboard backpack that fits well. If it doesn’t work correctly, the worst-case scenario is your gear falls out.

Pockets: If you’re looking for a snowboarding backpack with plenty of pockets and compartments, be sure to look through all the features before making your final purchase.

Water Resistance: Your best snowboard backpack will inevitably get wet at some point, but you don’t want it to be because of melting snow or the elements. At the very least, look for those with water-resistant materials and zippers, so everything inside stays dry.

Weight: Depending on how much room and what kinds of features the best snowboard backpack has, it’s bound to have a little extra weight on your shoulders. Make sure the capacity is worth carrying around before making a purchase.

Width: While some snowboarding backpacks are narrow enough to fit between chairlift lines, others might be too big or bulky for that purpose alone. If you plan on boarding in tight spots or through trees, make sure you get one that fits the bill.

Hydration Pack Compatibility: If you plan on being out in the snow for a long time, make sure your best snowboard backpack has a way to carry water. Some offer hydration pack compatibility, while others come with dedicated compartments and pockets just for water bottles.

Additional Features

Board carry system: Another option on a snowboard-specific backpack is to bring your board. Depending on personal choice, it is possible either vertically or horizontally, but the most important thing is that the bag can fit your board.

Hydration bladder compatibility: This is a nice feature if you’re one to take a water bottle along with you. The hydration bladder will provide you with all the necessary fluid you need to make it through your day on the slopes, and in some cases, these bladders are removable for easy replacement or cleaning purposes.

ICE AXE / POLE LOOPS: These are excellent features to have if you’re the type of rider who enjoys extra excursions, like hikes or even ski tours.

Zip-off day pack: Many older backpacks didn’t include this feature, but it’s something to consider when deciding on a new one. If you’ve gone through your share of frustrating zipper malfunctions, you’ll know the appeal of a removable day pack in a heartbeat.

HELMET CARRY SYSTEM: This is an excellent feature if you’re the rider who always brings their helmet on and off the mountain. Whether you’re tired of holding it while riding or your hands are too cold, a snowboarding backpack with this feature will save you from having to keep carrying that pesky thing around all day!

Security: A lot of backpacks come with different methods of protection. Some bags include locking zippers and hidden pockets that stow away any valuables you might like to keep safe while on the mountain or in transit between resorts!

Waterproofing: For most people, waterproofing isn’t a priority. But if your winters tend to get very wet, you might want to consider this feature. It’s especially nice if you live somewhere where it tends to snow a lot but also gets cold and wet.

Compression straps: These are great for tightening up your snowboarding backpack after it’s already stuffed to the brim. While this might not be a high priority, it contributes to the overall appeal of being able to fit more into your backpack.

How Should A Snowboard Backpack Fit?

Your snowboarding backpack must fit well, as a too-big bag will be uncomfortable and cause you to lose balance. The top of the pack should fit or slightly above your waistline, so it sits securely on your back.

Length & Sizing: When picking the right snowboarding backpack for your height, measure from the base of your neck to a point on your back between your shoulder blades. It will help you determine what length best fits you.

Width: Some backpacks are designed to be narrow enough so they won’t catch as you go through trees or ride tight chairlifts, while others are made to be wider for more storage.

Test it with weight: If you’re wearing your snowboarding backpack for an extended period, you must test how well the bag fits with some weight inside. While this might not seem like an issue at first, carrying around extra pounds can become bothersome and even result in back pain.

Best Snowboard Backpack: Top Picks

The Dakine Heli Pro 20L Backpack is a complete upgrade over the backcountry-standard 24L Heli Pro, making it ideal for quick hits and shredding. This compact bundle includes everything you’ll need to get after it, including numerous carrying alternatives for skis and snowboards, a dedicated pocket with quick access to your snow safety gear, and enough space for an extra layer, a hydration bladder, and a snack or two.

It’s soft, supportive, and comfy enough to forget about when you’re climbing down the mountain.

Specs

  • Dimensions: 21 x 12 x 8″ [53 x 30 x 20cm]
  • Material: Nylon, Polyester, Recycled Polyester
  • Bag Volume (L): 20
  • Weight (g): 860
  • Laptop Sleeve: Yes
  • Warranty: Limited Lifetime
  • Hydration compatible
  • Rescue whistle on sternum strap
  • Non-padded sleeve fits most 15″ laptops

Benefits

  • Large main compartment
  • Dedicated snow safety tool pocket with buckle closure for quick access
  • The soft, supportive, and comfy back panel
  • Cinch top compression straps to reduce movement while riding or skiing
  • Water bottle pockets on each side of the pack (insulated) Adjustable sternum strap, adjustable padded shoulder straps & waist belt.
  • Additional features
  • Quick access to snacks and personal items
  • Durable exterior materials (420 denier nylon, 600 x 300 denier polyester)
  • Large main compartment with laptop sleeve.
  • Packable for travel or storage in luggage.
  • MULTI-DAY USAGE – The Dakine Heli Pro 20L Backpack can be used as a multi-day pack on your snowboarding or skiing adventures. It offers plenty of room, including a large main compartment, dedicated snow safety tool pocket with buckle closure for quick access, and two water bottle pockets (insulated)
  • LARGE MAIN COMPARTMENT – The Heli Pro 20L Backpack provides plenty of space to store all your gear and equipment. It features a large main compartment with a laptop sleeve and additional opening in the front and side pockets for snacks and personal items.
  • DEDICATED SNOW SAFETY TOOL POCKET – The Heli Pro Backpack provides easy access to your snow safety gear thanks to its dedicated pocket located on top of the pack. The pocket is secured with a buckle closure for quick access. It features an interior mesh drop-in organizer sleeve to fit your shovel, probe, and other essential gear.
  • DRINK SYSTEM COMPATIBLE – This snowboarding backpack has water bottle pockets located on each side of the bag (insulated). It’s hydration bladder compatible as well.

Our Verdict 

The Dakine Heli Pro 20L Backpack is an excellent option for those looking to hit the slopes without having their bag catch on everything. It offers plenty of room and storage options, as well as easy access to your snow safety gear.

The Black Diamond Jetforce Pro Split Backpack is your go-to pack for backcountry adventures, whether it’s a long day of touring or an overnight mission.

This sturdy backpack has everything you’ll need to get after it in the backcountry while keeping all of your gear safe and organized—including 25L compartmentalized storage, easy access to your safety gear, and additional pockets for snacks.

Specs

  • Dimensions: 17.72 x 4.72 x 4.72 inches
  • Item Weight: ‎2.53 Kilograms
  • Bag Volume (L): 25
  • JetForce Technology

Benefits

  • 25L compartmentalized storage
  • Easy access to your safety gear with diagonal ski carry and side snowboard carry options.
  • Additional pockets for snacks or personal items.
  • Packable design is perfect for travel, hiking, camping trips, and more.

Our Verdict 

The Black Diamond Jetforce Pro Split Backpack features 25L compartmentalized storage to keep your gear safe and organized, as well as a built-in diagonal ski carry system. It’s the perfect pack for backcountry snowboard adventurers looking to get after it all day long.

The Osprey Kestrel Women’s Ski Backpack is an all-day touring pack designed to carry everything you need for a full day on the snow. This women’s specific ski backpack has a ventilated mesh back panel, padded waist belt, and shoulder straps with easy access pockets to keep your snacks close at hand.

Specs:

  • Dimensions: ‎19 x 8 x 11 inches
  • Item Weight: ‎2.14 Pounds
  • FRAME: Internal Frame
  • Zippers that are glove-friendly for easy access even in chilly weather
  • Scratch-free goggle pocket
  • Diagonal Ski Carry

Benefits

  • Internal Frame: The Osprey Kestrel Women’s Ski Backpack is equipped with an inner frame to help maximize your balance and comfort.
  • Zippers that are glove-friendly for easy access even in chilly weather: This women’s ski backpack has zippers that are designed to be easily accessed even when you’re wearing gloves.
  • Scratch-free goggle pocket: The Osprey Kestrel Women’s Ski Backpack has a goggle pocket on the top of the pack to protect your goggles from getting scratched.
  • Diagonal Ski Carry: This women’s ski backpack features diagonal skiing straps for carrying your skis when you’re not riding the chairlift.

Our Verdict

The Osprey Kestrel Women’s Ski Backpack is a high-performance pack designed specifically for women. It features an internal frame, which maximizes your balance and comfort while you’re skiing down some gnarly terrain in the backcountry.

Osprey Kamber 22 Men’s Ski Backpack is the perfect pack for men looking to get after it in the backcountry. This ski backpack has a ventilated mesh back panel, padded waist belt, and shoulder straps with easy access pockets.

Specs: 

  • Dimensions: ‎21.8 x 13 x 4 inches
  • Item Weight: ‎2.79 Pounds
  • CAPACITY: 22 L
  • USE: Resort, skiing
  • HYDRATION: Compatible

Benefits

  • Ventilated mesh back panel: This ski backpack features a ventilated mesh back panel to help keep you cool and comfortable while skiing.
  • The padded waist belt and shoulder straps with easy access pockets: The Osprey Kamber 22 Men’s Ski Backpack has padded shoulder straps and an adjustable, removable waist belt for added comfort.
  • Compatible with hydration bladder: This ski pack is consistent with a 100 ounce (three liters) hydration reservoir.
  • The resort, skiing: The Osprey Kamber 22 Men’s Ski Backpack has the perfect amount of space for resort or backcountry skiing.

Our Verdict 

The Osprey Kamber 22 Men’s Ski Backpack is the perfect pack for men looking to get after it in the backcountry. This ski backpack has all the features that skiers need to stay comfortable and safe while hitting gnarly lines off-piste.

Related Product: Osprey Farpoint 55

The Burton Day Hiker 25L Backpack is a lightweight, durable backpack that’s perfect for everything from an epic backcountry trek to shopping on Main Street.

With multiple pockets and compartments to keep your gear organized, this men’s ski pack has you covered.

 

Specs

  • Dimensions: ‎‎ 20 x 14 x 2 inches
  • Weight: 1.31 Pounds
  • USE: Snowboarding, hiking
  • MATERIAL: Polyester
  • CAPACITY: 25 L
  • HYDRATION: Compatible
  • WOMEN’S VERSION: Unisex

Benefits

  • Lightweight design: This backpack is made from lightweight materials to help you stay mobile and agile when you’re in the backcountry.
  • Multiple pockets and compartments: The Burton Day Hiker 25L Backpack has numerous pockets with various compartments to keep your gear organized.
  • WOMEN’S VERSION: Unisex: This backpack has a women’s version explicitly designed for the unique shape of the female anatomy.
  • Compatible with hydration bladder: This men’s ski pack can be used with a 100 ounce (three liters) hydration reservoir.
  • Snowboarding, hiking: The Burton Day Hiker 25L Backpack is perfect for snowboarding and hiking.

Our Verdict

The Burton Day Hiker 25L Backpack is a lightweight, durable backpack that’s perfect for everything from an epic backcountry trek to shopping on Main Street. With multiple pockets and compartments to keep your gear organized, this men’s ski pack has you covered.

Wrap Up

The longer you ride, the more you realize just how badly you need a backpack for your snowboarding addiction. Maybe you don’t want to ride back to the lodge just for a snack. Or perhaps you want a refreshing drink at the top of a long ascent. 

Whatever your reason, finding the best snowboard backpack for you will dramatically improve not only your ride but your happiness along the way. We’ve routed through the options online to bring you the five best snowboard backpacks out there.

Happy Snowboarding!

FAQs

Why do pro snowboarders wear backpacks?

In the backcountry or any ski area outside of the chairlift operations, a backpack is required. Carrying your gear on your pack keeps it out of the way, allowing you to focus solely on travel.

What size backpack do I need for skiing?

In general, a good day’s journey goal is 30-40 liters. You’ll need to prioritize lightweight carrying or the lightest weight equipment if you pack more miniature than 30 liters. Going above 40 liters will result in a hefty backpack.

Related Article: How Big Is A 30 Liter Backpack

What should I carry in my snowboard backpack?

The amount of food and water you need depends on the riding you will be doing. My backpack usually contains food, water, sunscreen, and another item of clothing or two. If I’m going into the woods, I bring a shovel, signal, and anything else I believe I’ll require.

What’s the best way to carry a snowboard on your backpack?

It is dependent on how the backpack is configured. It will either have straps allowing you to carry the board on one of the bag’s sides or across your back. Some versions enable you to transport it diagonally across your back. Make sure it’s secure in any case.

Do you need a waterproof backpack for snowboarding?

When you go cycling, it’s essential to have a waterproof backpack. If the weather isn’t very severe, a non-waterproof bag can suffice; but all of your belongings will get wet if you fall. Waterproof alternatives allow you to avoid this issue.

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Z Hashan

I’m Z Hashan, an entrepreneur, but more importantly (well, to me at least), a traveler.

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