Ultra-light! The ORTOVOX ASCENT backpack was originally designed for ski mountaineering. Here at HAT we reckon it’s a great option for ski touring and riding off-piste.
We’re particularly impressed by how comfortable and light it is.
Weight is always a prime concern when out ski touring or going off-piste. The ORTOVOX ASCENT backpack is made of tough abrasion-free material but has a ‘no-gimmicks’ design to keep its weight down. The 3D foam back-system helps to distribute the pack’s weight evenly between its hip fins and the padded shoulder straps, making it extremely comfortable to wear.
The backpack can be used alone, or combined with the removeable AVABAG airbag unit. The backpack won an ISPO award for being the most innovative, lightest and compact avalanche airbag system of the year.
We’re extremely impressed by the AVABAG’s great safety features. In particular, the way it allows you unlimited practise at pulling the trigger handle (without the cartridge attached). This is great for improving your confidence in knowing how to pull the handle if there is a real emergency. In addition, the handle is 3D-shaped, meaning it can be easily activated with any type of glove or mitten, no matter whether you’re left or right-handed. The handle can be zipped away into the shoulder strap when you’re on the ski-lift, so you can be confident you won’t mistakenly trigger the airbag!
When used with the AVABAG airbag system (just 1.8 l, 640 g), the ASCENT backpack still has adequate room for your extra layers, skins, etc. The backpack has a large main section and a small front pouch for your safety equipment. You can use it with a hydration system, and, of course, there are all the necessary straps for your skis, etc.
The ORTOVOX ASCENT backpack comes in 3 sizes. For a morning or day off-piste, the 22 l version is perfect, weighing just 830 g on its own (1780 g with the AVABAG system and cartridge inside – still very light). For longer tours, the 28 l and 30 l versions would be better. The AVABAG system fits all 3 sizes.
We think this ORTOVOX ASCENT AVABAG is a great product. Henry toured with an airbag more often last winter because of it!
Ride Hard ! Ride Safe and enjoy the Mountains
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