9 Best Ski Backpack 2025 in the United States

The Osprey Glade 12L Ski and Snowboard Backpack is designed for those looking for a compact, essential gear carrier for skiing adventures. With a capacity of 12 liters, it's suitable for carrying the basics but might fall short for those needing extra gear storage. Its standout feature is the included Osprey Hydraulics LT 2.5L reservoir, boasting an insulated hose and bite valve cover, making it hydration-compatible and ready for quick water access on the slopes.

The backpack is crafted from durable nylon, assuring robustness against the elements and wear from frequent use. Its weight of 2 pounds makes it relatively lightweight, although there may be lighter models available for those prioritizing minimalism. Fit and comfort are addressed with a streamlined design.

It excels in accessibility with an easy-access panel and a specialized goggles/accessory stash pocket, useful for quick grab-and-go situations. It may require supplementation with other gear for more complex or safety-critical adventures.

The deuter Freerider 30 Ski Tour Backpack is designed with ski enthusiasts in mind, offering a number of practical features tailored to backcountry adventures. One of its standout strengths is the weather-resistant design, made from durable, breathable fabric that protects your gear from snow and moisture. The backpack's capacity of 30 liters strikes a good balance, providing ample space for essentials without becoming cumbersome. Additionally, the safety features, including a dedicated compartment for avalanche gear like probes and shovels, ensure that you can access your safety equipment quickly in emergencies, which is crucial for backcountry skiing.

Comfort is addressed with the fit and design of the backpack, featuring hip fins and adjustable straps that help distribute weight evenly, making it more comfortable during long treks. The ski carry options are versatile, offering diagonal and A-frame carries as well as additional gear attachment points, which cater to different preferences in carrying equipment.

The Freerider 30 is lightweight at about 2.25 pounds, though some might find the capacity limiting for longer trips where additional gear is necessary. Hydration compatibility features are included, but it's important to ensure your hydration system fits the backpack properly, as not all systems may align perfectly with the design. The materials used seem robust, but prolonged exposure to harsh conditions could wear down certain parts over time. While the pocket organization is decent, further compartments for smaller items might enhance usability.

The Osprey Firn 28L Ski and Snowboard Backpack is designed for those who enjoy skiing and snowboarding, offering a decent 28-liter capacity suitable for day trips on the slopes. The vest-style fit ensures comfort and keeps essentials like food, a headlamp, and tech within easy reach. It promises a snug fit, which is helpful when engaging in active sports like skiing.

This backpack includes a ski lasso carry system, allowing users to attach their skis without removing the pack, which is convenient when navigating tricky terrains. It appears to lack specific avalanche safety features, which might be a concern for those skiing in areas where avalanches are frequent.

The backpack is made of durable nylon, suggesting it can withstand the wear and tear of regular use and exposure to snow and moisture. At 2.6 pounds, it might feel slightly heavier compared to other lightweight models, but this weight could be offset by the backpack's sturdy construction.

The backpack's cinch closure and top flap offer extra protection against snow and rain, but might pose a slight inconvenience when accessing gear quickly. This product could appeal to intermediate skiers who prioritize fit and ease of carrying skis over advanced safety features. Its stylish color options—Elderberry Purple and Peppermint Green—also add a bit of flair.