Best pack for backcoutry skiing + photo

[Bernard_Languillier]

Dear all,

I am currently trying to combine 2 of my hobbys, meaning backcountry skiing (telemarking to be accurate) and photography.

I do own some very good backcountry packs (Osprey) and some very good photo back packs (LowPro Trekker series) but I find that the first ones are not adapted to photography use, and that the second one are not adapted to backcountry skiing.

My view is that while skiing in the backcountry, you need to have a pack that should have a great fit, allow you to carry your winter/safety equipment (skis, shovel, clothes, food...) but still allow you a reasonnably quick access to your photo gear while protecting it well.

Would any of you have found a good offer matching these priorities?

Thank you in advance,

Best regards,
Bernard

[Yance_Marti]

You may want to consider two packs - a fanny pack and a backpack. For that situation I wouldn't use anything but a fanny pack for the camera. That will allow you quick access to it while on the move without the added hassle of trying to remove a backpack in the snow. With a fanny pack you can wear it on the front while still allowing for the movement of x-country skiing and it won't interfere with the backpack.

[Bernard_Languillier]

Thanks for the input. Actually, it is already what I am doing when on the flat (X-country equivalent) and only carrying one body + lens (I am using a LowePro Top Load bag attached to the belt of my Osprey pack).

The problem is that this solution only works if you carry very limited amount of camera gear. When you carry 2 or 3 extra lenses, it is a real burden to have them mixed up with your other equipment inside the pack. They are not correctly protected, and there is a good chance that they will collide in case of shock.

Indeed, the difference between Telemark and X-contry is that you also go down with Telemark, potentially pretty fast, potentially in the trees with deep powder that will make you fall at some point of time (and considering my level, I fall quite often :-)).

Best regards,
Bernard

[derekcrowe]

Bernard,

This is not much of a problem. The exact product of your dreams exists in a couple of varieties that I am aware of. Both Burton and Dakine make packs that are designed for shooters from the ground up. I have Burton's version - called the F-Stop - not only has it become my day-to-day pack for lugging my stuff around on normal assigments but it is also the bigday suffersack for those days in the bc when it's worth hauling the show.

I can't remember the model name of the Dakine version... but you'll find it if you look. My Burton has enough room to carry a shovel,probe,lunch etc, but not much extra for static line/harness or first aid kits, bivy sacks etc... Oh well just use those extra rolls of 100vs instead of bandages anyway. It's a super comfy pack and you will become freaky strong or be shattered and suffering if you ride/ski with the extra weight all the time.

The other option is to make a bunch of lens cans out of bluecamping foam and a padded bag for your camera body. Chuck it all into your BC pack or camelback if you are on the bike. Works pretty good and often the best if the terrain is ultra gnarly. I've bailed huge with gear protected this way and it's allways been good (at least better than my body) after a crash.

good luck

dc

www.derekcrowe.ca

[Adam Wade]

Having done a little telemark skiing (my knees are still recovering from it! ), I think I'm able to envision what you want. I get the feeling that the objectives of both protecting the gear well AND having it readily accesible contradict each other to a fair degree.

How far down your hips does the backcountry pack extend? You may find that a small Domke with the backpack straps can fit below the backcountry pack, and while not incredibly accessible, it would certainly do a pretty good job protecting your gear.

I can't think of a pack that would be suitable to serve both purposes for you. Perhaps something in a small padded fanny pack worn in front of you? I'm not sure. Below the backcountry pack would allow the backcountry pack to take the brunt of the impact if you fell on your back, was my thinking...

[Bernard_Languillier]

Thanks for the info, I'll try to see if Burton and Dakine packs are available in Tokyo (I would think that they are).

Best regards,
Bernard