Skiing is a thrilling and exhilarating experience that many people enjoy during the colder months. To easily transport your skis to the mountain, a reliable and well-designed backpack is an essential piece of equipment. A good ski backpack not only carries your skis but also provides space for other necessary gear, such as gloves, goggles, and extra clothing.
In this article, we have compiled a list of top-rated ski backpacks after spending numerous hours researching and testing various options. Each backpack brings unique features to the table, ensuring you find the perfect match that meets your skiing needs and preferences. Dive in and explore the best backpacks for carrying your skis this season.
Best Backpacks for Carrying Skis
Discover the top backpacks for carrying your skis with ease and comfort in the list below. These backpacks have been curated based on their durability, practicality, and user-friendliness to help you find the perfect one for your skiing adventures.
Dakine Poacher 22L Backpack
The Dakine Poacher 22L Backpack is a reliable option for carrying skis and snowboarding gear with ample storage and practical features.
Pros
- Made of 100% recycled high density nylon materials
- Offers diagonal & A-frame ski/splitboard carry and vertical snowboard carry
- Features backpanel zippered main access and a snow tool/shovel pocket
Cons
- May ride high on taller individuals
- No DK Impact Spine Protector included (sold separately)
- Limited color options available
The Dakine Poacher 22L Backpack has a well-designed storage capacity of 22 liters, providing enough space for all your backcountry gear including a shovel, probe, skins, and a spare layer. Its contoured, low-profile design ensures the backpack carries close to your body, while the updated backpanel construction improves flex and comfort.
One standout feature of this backpack is its versatile carrying options. With diagonal & A-frame ski/splitboard carry, vertical snowboard carry, and even side and hipbelt pockets, you can easily transport your gear to your next adventure. Moreover, its deployable helmet carry and oversized fleece-lined goggle pocket provide extra convenience.
The Dakine Poacher 22L Backpack is made of 100% recycled high-density nylon materials, making it an eco-friendly choice. However, some may find that the backpack rides a bit high, especially for those over 6 feet tall. Despite this minor drawback, the backpack remains an excellent option for carrying skis and snowboarding gear, offering both durability and versatility.
Unigear Ski Hydration Backpack
The Unigear Ski Hydration Backpack is an excellent choice for skiers seeking a durable, water-resistant, and versatile backpack with convenient carrying options for their gear.
Pros
- Durable materials and water-resistant construction
- Multiple ski and snowboard carrying options
- Ample storage with compartments for organization
Cons
- Slightly heavier than some other options
- Stiff back panel may not suit some users
- Zippers may be prone to sticking or loosening
The Unigear Ski Hydration Backpack has a 30L capacity, making it an ideal option for those embarking on long day tours, skiing, hiking, or mountaineering. Its 900D polyester construction with PU coating ensures durability and excellent water resistance, essential for protecting your equipment in snow and cold conditions.
Carrying skis or snowboards is made easy thanks to the versatile strapping system, which allows for vertical snowboard and A-frame ski carry. Additional dual loops offer attachment points for ice axes and ski poles. One impressive feature is the hydration compatibility, allowing for a 3L bladder – perfect for staying hydrated during your adventures.
The ergonomics of this backpack are well thought out with adjustable and comfortable shoulder belts, a secure waist strap, and a sternum strap. A reflective strip on the chest strap adds a safety feature for nighttime use. The whistle incorporated into the chest strap can be helpful in emergencies.
While the Unigear Ski Hydration Backpack may be slightly heavier than other options and some users might not appreciate the stiff back panel, it provides excellent storage options and carrying versatility. It is perfect for those who prefer a durable, water-resistant backpack for their skiing adventures.
Mountain Goat Ski Tote Backpack Sling
A practical and durable ski backpack solution for hands-free ski carrying, suitable for both adults and kids.
Pros
- Compact and adjustable for easy storage and use
- Durable material ensures long-lasting functionality
- Hands-free design for added convenience and safety
Cons
- May require regular adjustments for secure fit
- Not specifically designed for snowboards, though compatible
- Limited color options available for personalization
The Mountain Goat Ski Tote Backpack Sling is an excellent solution for anyone looking to comfortably carry their skis while walking or hiking to the slopes. Its compact and adjustable design allows for easy storage when not in use, and its heavy-duty construction ensures durability for years to come. With the backpack-style design, users can enjoy the convenience of carrying their skis securely on their back, leaving their hands free to navigate the terrain or hold ski poles for stability.
In addition to its functional design, the Mountain Goat Ski Tote Backpack Sling has a family-friendly appeal, with available in various sizes to accommodate users of different ages and body types. This makes carrying skis a breeze for everyone, from small children to fully grown adults. As convenient as this ski tote is, it is worth noting that it may require regular adjustments to maintain a secure fit and may not be the ideal solution for a snowboarder, although it remains compatible with snowboards.
Despite its minor shortcomings, the Mountain Goat Ski Tote Backpack Sling is a practical and dependable choice for anyone looking to easily transport their skis to and from the mountain. Its convenient hands-free design, durable construction, and family-friendly sizing options make it a worthwhile investment for anyone in search of a reliable and comfortable ski carrying solution.
Athletico Ski Boot Bag
The Athletico Ski Boot Bag is a top choice for organizing and carrying your skiing and snowboarding gear with ease and comfort.
Pros
- Rugged, waterproof design
- Versatile storage compartments
- Travel-friendly features
Cons
- Limited color options
- May not fit two adult helmets
- Larger than some competitors
The Athletico Ski Boot Bag is an outdoor-ready, versatile bag designed to make carrying your ski and snowboarding equipment a breeze. The bag is crafted with premium water-resistant polyester and features individual side-zippered openings for easy access to your ski or snowboard boots. This not only separates the boots from the rest of your gear, but also provides a designated area for gloves, helmets, goggles, and other essentials.
The travel-friendly features, such as padded lumbar support, hidden straps for carrying, and top/front padded handles make this bag comfortable to carry on your back or in your hands. The multiple compartments allow for easy organization, ensuring that you can quickly access your gear when needed.
In terms of safety, Athletico has included reflective piping on the bag’s side and carrying handles, increasing your visibility in foggy or dimly lit conditions. This bag has received positive reviews for its durability and overall usefulness. However, some users have mentioned that it might be slightly too large for their needs, and it may not be able to hold two adult-sized helmets simultaneously. Additionally, the color options are limited, which may be a drawback for those seeking a more personalized style.
Overall, if you’re seeking a durable, versatile, and travel-friendly ski boot bag to safely carry your skiing and snowboarding gear, the Athletico Ski Boot Bag is a fantastic option.
AIRTTUZ Ski Boot Bag
The AIRTTUZ Ski Boot Bag is a reliable and convenient option for ski enthusiasts who need to carry their gear with ease and comfort.
Pros
- Waterproof and durable material
- 50L capacity with multiple compartments
- Comfortable and lightweight with padded back panel
Cons
- Limited color options
- No specific pocket for a helmet
- May not fit extremely large boot sizes
The AIRTTUZ Ski Boot Bag impressed me with its durable and waterproof design. I recently took it on a skiing trip, and the high-density polyester 600D material kept my gear safe and dry. The bag’s 50L capacity was enough for me to store my boots, gloves, goggles, and some additional accessories. The multiple compartments made it easy to keep everything organized, and I particularly appreciated the padded EVA back panel. It prevented any discomfort by keeping the boots from jabbing me in the back during transportation.
Another notable aspect of this backpack is its travel-friendly design. It has adjustable shoulder straps, chest straps, and two carrying handles that make transportation a breeze. The bag also comes with a reflective strip, which proved useful for improving nighttime safety. While traveling, the handy pockets provide extra space for storing essential items.
However, I did notice a few drawbacks with the AIRTTUZ Ski Boot Bag. Although functional, it is available in only three colors: black, red, and blue. Additionally, the bag does not have a designated pocket for a helmet, requiring you to store it in one of the main compartments. Lastly, while the backpack can hold boots up to size 13, those with extremely large boot sizes might struggle with storage space.
Overall, the AIRTTUZ Ski Boot Bag is a fantastic option for ski enthusiasts who value convenience, organization, and comfort during their travels. The durable, waterproof material and spacious compartments make it ideal for carrying your ski gear with ease. However, keep in mind the limited color options and potential size limitations when making a decision.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best backpack for carrying skis, there are several factors to consider. In this buying guide, we will discuss the key features to look for and how to choose the perfect backpack to fit your needs.
There are various types and styles of ski backpacks available on the market, but the primary focus should be on the backpack’s ability to carry skis securely and comfortably. In addition to ski-carrying features, it’s also essential to consider the backpack’s comfort, durability, and storage capacity to accommodate all your skiing essentials. Material quality, adjustable straps, and lightweight design are some of the factors that can significantly enhance your ski-carrying experience.
When looking for the best backpack for carrying skis, it’s crucial to pay attention to the backpack’s ski-carrying mechanism. This will typically come in the form of side straps or diagonal ski attachment systems, ensuring your skis stay firmly in place during travel. Moreover, consider the backpack’s size and overall weight, as these factors can impact its comfort and ease of use.
Capacity and Compartments
One of the first things to consider is the capacity of the backpack. Make sure to choose a backpack with enough space for your skis, as well as any additional gear, such as poles, gloves, goggles, and a helmet. Look for a backpack with multiple compartments to help organize and separate your gear for easy access.
Attachment System
The backpack should have a reliable and secure attachment system for carrying your skis. This can come in the form of straps, loops, or sleeves. A good attachment system will hold your skis firmly in place and prevent them from shifting or falling while you are walking or hiking.
Comfort and Fit
The best backpack for carrying skis should be comfortable to wear, especially when loaded with heavy gear. Look for a backpack with padded shoulder straps and a waist belt to help distribute weight evenly. It is essential to try the backpack on and adjust the straps properly to ensure a snug and comfortable fit.
Durability and Material
The backpack should be made of a durable and weather-resistant material to withstand harsh conditions on the slopes. Common materials include nylon, polyester, and ripstop fabrics. Additionally, reinforce the stress points to increase durability and extend the life of the backpack.
Additional Features
Some backpacks may come with extra features that can be useful while skiing or snowboarding. Examples include:
- Hydration system compatibility: A backpack with a hydration bladder sleeve and hose routing allows you to easily drink water without removing the backpack.
- Ventilation: A breathable back panel can help keep you cool and prevent sweating.
- Safety features: Reflective elements and rescue whistle can be helpful in case of an emergency or low-visibility situations.
Keep these factors in mind when searching for the perfect backpack to carry your skis, and you will be well-prepared for your next winter adventure.