For the Winter Season 16/17, the mountain sports specialist VAUDE is launching a brand new range of avalanche airbag backpacks featuring the Alpride system. Weighing just 1.2 kg including cartridges, it’s the lightest system on the market. The Updraft, Flow and Tour models cover the entire range of skiers’ needs – from ascent-oriented challenges to multi-day ski tours.
Safety on tour is a crucial requirement for ski mountaineers. In addition to the absolute necessities of a beacon, shovel and probe, the German Alpine Association recommends taking along an avalanche airbag. While the extra weight and high cost can deter some skiers, calculated over the years, an airbag backpack is definitely a true “investment for life”.
Starting with the Winter Season 2016-17, VAUDE will be relying on a relatively new system from Alpride for its backpacks with avalanche airbags. Developed with high-precision Swiss engineering and certified by Germany’s TÜV product safety organization, the system features a trigger on the handle that deploys a semi-circular air cushion with 150 l volume which holds the head and upper body on the surface in sliding snow, while at the same time protecting both the head and back.
The mechanical deployment is reliable, robust and low-maintenance in extreme weather conditions, as well as user-friendly. The biggest advantage, though, is a low overall weight of just 1,240 g including disposable cartridges. Alpride uses two standard cartridges (with a CO2 / argon gas mixture), a technology similar to that used in some lifejackets. And if your ski trip involves flying – the cartridges are approved by the IATA.
VAUDE has integrated the Alpride system in four models. All backpacks feature an outer, quickly accessible safety gear compartment for shovel and probe and attachment loops for skis and ice axes.
Alprider Updraft 22 LW – For gentle ascents
With 22 liters and weighing just 2,125 g, this is one of the lightest avalanche airbag packs in the world. It is suitable for ski resort and off-piste skiers on day trips who appreciate maximum safety and minimal gear. Thanks to environmentally friendly primary materials (lightweight siliconized 40D polyamide) it even carries the VAUDE Green Shape label. Practical details: The diagonal ski fixation can be adjusted even while wearing the pack.
Recommended retail prices (delivered without cartridges) model weight RRP particularities
Alprider Updraft 22 LW 2.125 G 650, – EUR Green Shape
