I will admit that I’m quite fond of the Dakine Heli Pro which I’ve been using for two decades. My guard was up prior to testing the Patagonia PowSlayer pack to say the least. That said, the first sensation putting on this pack was its extreme comfort. I could tell this pack would be functional and durable but its design really contoured to my back and allowed me to feel in unison while riding.

The PowSlayer Pack is a purpose-built backcountry pack and with 38-liter capacity, it’s sized perfectly for longer hikes whereas some competitor packs are a little too low-profile and just can’t fit enough accessories, snacks and water inside. Another standout feature is the full back-panel access, which lets you reach gear without dumping snow into the main compartment which is a very useful feature on stormy days. A dedicated avalanche tool pocket keeps shovel and probe organized and easy to grab when seconds matter. Durable, snow-shedding materials hold up to abuse, while the streamlined layout avoids unnecessary bulk.

It’s not the cheapest option, but the PowSlayer Pack delivers dependable performance, thoughtful details, and Patagonia’s trusted build quality for serious backcountry riders.

MSRP: $249