Packs & Safety Gear – 2025/26 Updates
While skis and bindings grab attention, the true backbone of ski touring is the safety kit and the pack that carries it. For 2025/26, avalanche transceivers, shovels, probes, and packs continue to evolve toward lighter, faster, and more intuitive designs. Small refinements—slimmer form factors, improved deployment, and reduced carry weight—make a significant difference on the hill.
The humble ski touring pack is no longer an afterthought. For 2025/26, the leading designs strip weight but still keep avalanche tools, hydration, and crampon storage at your fingertips. Streamlined silhouettes hug close to the body for fast transitions, while reinforced panels and clever tool sleeves mean durability hasn’t been forgotten.
Packs now integrate dedicated avy-tool sleeves, helmet carry systems, and modular airbag units. Beacons feature faster processing and clearer displays. Shovels balance minimal weight with extended handles and robust blades, while probes use stronger carbon-aluminum hybrids for reliability in varied snow conditions. The emphasis is on functional progress rather than flashy reinvention.
Ortovox Avabag LiTRIC Tour 30
Modular airbag system with 30L alpine-ready chassis. Rechargeable LiTRIC unit allows multiple deployments and fast swap-out between freeride and touring pack shells.
Mammut Barryvox S2
Benchmark transceiver with faster signal processing, improved display, and enhanced range for 2025/26. Intuitive and glove-friendly.
Black Diamond Transfer LT Shovel
405 g UIAA-certified shovel with riveted blade and telescoping handle. Light yet robust for rapid rescue scenarios.
Black Diamond Cirque Ultra 25
Weight: 660-1100 g | Volume: 25 L
The Black Diamond Cirque Ultra 25 is a new addition to Black Diamond’s lineup, designed for minimalist backcountry skiing. Constructed with durable UltraWeave sail fabrics, it features a roll-top closure, diagonal ski carry, side access for skins or crampons, and compatibility with hydration and radio systems. Available in sizes S/M and M/L, it is ideal for fast day tours where lightweight efficiency is key.
Deuter Freescape Lite 26
Weight: 780 g | Volume: 26 L
Lightweight pack with ergonomic shoulder and hip design, integrated ski and avy compartments, and durable nylon construction. Perfect for day-long tours.
Ortovox Haute Route 30 S
Weight: 920 g | Volume: 30 L | Short-torso fit
Ergonomic support, dedicated avalanche compartments, and dual ski carry. Compact yet comfortable for long ascents.
Mammut Barryvox S2
Weight: 230 g | Power: 2xAA batteries
Professional-grade beacon with enhanced multi-burial search and intuitive interface.
Arva Airbag Explore 30
Weight: 2.27 kg
Bluetooth-enabled avalanche airbag pack with group check, firmware updates, and reliable safety performance. Includes helmet and ice axe carry options, ideal for safety-conscious backcountry adventures.
Backcountry Access JetForce Pro 25L
Weight: 3.1 kg | Electric fan inflation
Integrated airbag system with avalanche compartments and intuitive deployment. Combines protection and convenience for 25L touring capacity.
Black Diamond Transfer LT
Weight: 405 g | Blade: 25×22 cm
Telescoping aluminum handle, riveted blade, UIAA-certified for rapid snow excavation.
Ortovox Badger Shovel
Weight: 520 g
Durable blade with ergonomic handle for efficient digging in all snow conditions.
Black Diamond Quickdraw Probe
Weight: 310 g | Length: 280 cm
Carbon/aluminum hybrid shaft with quick-deploy mechanism. Accurate markings for rapid victim location.
Ortovox 240+ Probe
Weight: 290 g | Length: 240 cm
Lightweight aluminum/carbon construction, fast deployment, and marked increments for precise rescue operations.
