How to Choose a Splitboarding Backpack

If you’re heading into the backcountry to nab some silky powder turns, a splitboarding backpack is a required piece of gear for maximizing fun and safety. A high-quality splitboarding pack provides all the storage needed to bring avy tools (shovel, probe), food, water, warm layers, and more. Additionally, splitboarding backpacks (or any snowsports backpacks, for that matter) often include a variety of features that are specific to backcountry use. Some of these features are obvious but some are not and can cause confusion for new backcountry riders. Add in the fact that a dedicated splitboarding backpack typically costs more than a regular lifestyle backpack and all of a sudden, the selection process can feel intimidating.

To make the process of selecting a splitboarding pack more approachable, Burton’s product engineers helped us outline the main things you should know when shopping for the perfect bag.

• What is a splitboarding backpack?
• Why should I buy a splitboarding specific backpack?
• Types of Splitboarding Backpacks
• Splitboarding Backpack Features
• How to Pack a Splitboarding Backpack

Pro tip: If you’re new to the backcountry, it’s important to understand the risks associated with splitboarding and backcountry skiing. Review How to Get Started with Backcountry Snowboarding as a primer.

What is a splitboarding backpack?

A splitboarding backpack is any backpack that is specifically designed for backcountry snowboarding, and more specifically, traveling by splitboard. Generally speaking, this means that it will have distinct features, design elements, and material choices that allow it to excel in a backcountry setting, compared to conventional daypacks.

For example, the Burton [ak] Dispatcher collection of backpacks features splitboard carrying straps, easy-access shovel/probe removal compartments, ice axe loops, goggle pockets, and more.

Why should I buy a splitboarding specific backpack?

You could ask ten different snowboarders why you should buy a splitboarding-specific backpack and get ten different answers. But if you ask the experts, it really comes down to three primary reasons: safety, convenience, and comfort.

In terms of safety, having fast and unrestricted access to avalanche rescue tools (shovel and probe) is one of the most important features a dedicated snowsports backpack can offer. Fortunately, this feature is present on most splitboarding and skiing backpacks in the form of an outer pocket with sewn sleeves to keep your tools at the ready. This can save you precious seconds in the event that your trip requires partner recovery (we hope it never happens but it’s best to be prepared). Of course, a backpack also provides a way to carry snacks, water, a first aid kit, spare mid layers, sun protection and the rest of the Ten Essentials.

Splitboarding specific backpacks also offer convenience. Common conveniences include built-in snowboard carrying systems that free up your hands in steep terrain, dedicated fleece-lined goggle pockets to keep your Anon goggles scratch-free, and routing for hydration bladder hoses.

Finally, a good splitboarding backpack is comfortable and allows for unrestricted range of motion while touring and snowboarding. Generally, this is achieved with supportive shoulder straps, some sort of frame or back panel, a sternum strap, and a waist belt. These different elements work together to help you comfortably carry your gear during extended periods of activity so you can get as deep into the backcountry as possible.

Types of Splitboarding Backpacks

Among splitboarding backpacks, you can generally categorize designs into one of two primary categories: conventional and lightweight.

Conventional packs tend to prioritize durable materials, feature-rich design, and adequate volume for a full-day worth of backcountry gear. A prime example is Burton’s [ak] Dispatcher line of splitboarding backpacks, which have all the bells and whistles and are offered in three different volumes.

Conversely, lightweight packs are often minimal in design, with just enough room for the essentials, like a snack and avalanche rescue gear. The Burton Surgence Tour Backpack is a perfect example of a lightweight pack: it utilizes lightweight materials to save weight and is compact, with everything you need and nothing you don’t.

Splitboarding Backpack Features

While it’s impossible to make a truly comprehensive list of every splitboarding backpack feature available, our team compiled some of the most popular ones to consider when shopping for a new pack.

• Snowboard Carrying System: A snowboard carrying system is generally comprised of external nylon straps that can be used to secure a snowboard in either a horizontal or vertical position on the backpack, and some systems can secure the individual planks of a splitboard on either side of the pack in an “a-frame” orientation. One advantage of straps versus a sleeve is that you can secure straps below, or between your snowboard bindings, allowing you to fine-tune the height of the snowboard relative to your body. While most splitboarding backpacks include a snowboard carrying system, the design often varies across manufacturers.
• Avalanche Tools Pocket: An avalanche rescue tools pocket is a compartment in a splitboarding backpack that is used to secure an avalanche probe and shovel while touring and riding. Having these tools readily available in a dedicated pocket, where they won’t be tangled or obscured by other items, can save valuable time in an emergency situation. Note that compact backcountry shovels come in many different shapes and sizes, so it’s important to confirm backpack compatibility if you already own one.
• Goggle Pocket: A fleece-lined goggle pocket protects your goggle lenses from getting scratched while you ascend. Hydration Bladder Pocket: A dedicated hydration bladder pocket is a great backpack feature that makes it easier to stay hydrated while touring. High-quality splitboarding backpacks will also include an insulated hydration sleeve on the shoulder straps to prevent water in the tube line from freezing. Note that standalone hose covers are also available.
• Helmet Carrying System: Carrying a helmet with you into the backcountry is a no-brainer, but with all of the other gear you are already packing, finding room for a helmet inside your pack can be a challenge. A dedicated helmet carrying system can solve this dilemma by providing you with an exterior panel to secure your helmet. Note that many helmet carrying systems stow away inside the pack when not in use.
• Waist Belt and Sternum Straps: Almost all splitboarding backpacks will have a waist belt and sternum strap to help keep the backpack in place while you are cruising at high speeds. On the chance that you take a tumble, these straps can also help prevent the dreaded yard sale.
• Ice Axe Loop: For technical ascents, an ice axe loop is an essential backpack feature. This simple loop is designed to safely secure an ice axe when it is not in use.
• Crampon Pocket: A crampon pocket is a specialized feature in select high-end technical packs. A dedicated exterior pocket for sharp splitboard crampons prevents damage to more delicate items like down jackets, hydration bladders, and other gear inside the pack.
• Avalanche Airbag System: An avalanche airbag system is essentially a balloon that can be quickly inflated to help a rider float to the surface if they’re caught in a slide. Backpacks with airbag systems typically feature a handle integrated into one of the shoulder straps that allows the wearer to deploy the airbag. Note that there are many extra considerations when shopping for an airbag system and understand that ABS packs do not guarantee your safety in the backcountry.
• Waterproof Materials and Construction: Splitboarding backpacks should keep your gear dry in the harshest backcountry conditions. Look for water-resistant fabrics and fully taped seams for maximum protection. Note that a separate backpack rain cover is also a great alternative.

How to Pack Your Splitboarding Backpack for the Backcountry

Packing a splitboarding backpack for the backcountry is equal parts art and science. A correctly packed backpack will ride comfortably and evenly, without creating uncomfortable pressure points on your back or shoulders. Our product engineers recommend investing in a few small zippered pouches or stuff sacks, to keep your gear organized and simplify packing (which is especially helpful for smaller items that can otherwise slip down to the bottom of your pack while riding).

How to Pack a Splitboarding Backpack: Step-by-Step Process

1. Begin by laying out all of your splitboarding gear, so that you can see everything that you have. Consider organizing small and medium-sized items into a few stuff sacks or plastic sandwich bags.
2. Place high-volume lightweight items, like down jackets, at the bottom of your pack but make sure to leave a sleeve sticking out the top, so you can easily pull your jacket out if you need it midday without having to remove all of your other gear. Note that side and back-panel access, which are offered on some of our Dispatcher packs, make it easy to grab items from the bottom of your pack without needing to completely empty the contents.
3. Next, place heavier items, like food and hydration bladders, against the back panel of your pack. This will help you keep your center of gravity directly over your hips instead of away from your body, where it will cause discomfort over the course of the day.
4. Finally, fill the remaining volume of your backpack with your remaining stuff sacks. Small items can also be stored in accessory pockets or a lid, if your backpack has them.
5. Once fully packed, cinch down the side compression straps to stabilize your gear within the backpack.

Pro tip: In general, it’s best to avoid attaching anything to the outside of your pack if you can. These items can be easily damaged or ripped off by tree branches and can swing around and impact your balance.

Final Thoughts on How to Choose a Splitboarding Backpack

When traveling in the backcountry, every snowboarder needs a way to carry their equipment. Any backpack can work in a pinch but investing in a splitboarding backpack will provide specific features to make backcountry tours safer and more comfortable. If you’re shopping for a new pack, we recommend starting the process by figuring out which features you need. Then, drop into a local snowboard shop to try on a few different packs and find the perfect fit.