Why is it I keep going for rucksacks that are not ski specific? Could it be they tend to be light, come in neutral colors without jumbo sized brand names shouting your shopping preferences to the world, and have almost all the features I want? Well, yes. More, while I do run a quiver of backpacks I’m always trying to simplify and use rucks that work for both summer hiking and winter ski touring. With all that in mind, consider the Deuter Speedlite 30 toploader, but be sure to look at other Deuter options as well.
Deuter includes a back panel pouch and two mesh side pouches, but no diagonal ski carrry.
Deuter does make packs that are more ski specific. Their Freerider Pro 30 for example is a skier’s panel loader (and really quite nice). Or consider the Cruise 30 if you want something beefy and full featured, with an offset lower tool loop that’ll work for diagonal carry.
Side straps on the Speedlite 30 will work fine for A-frame ski carry.
Eternal question; toploader or panel? Two things about top loaders: They’re generally lighter and simpler. More importantly, top loaders are favored by alpinists because you can hang your pack from a belay stance and access the top drawstring opening without pulling a zipper and dumping a rain of gear on the valley below. Ski alpinists might like them for the same reason. Panel loader or not, back panel access can be nice if you frequently pack skis that block top access, but back panel construction adds weight, complexity and cost. I like top loaders, probably because of my background as an alpinist and climber, and I rarely feel the need for back panel access. That’s my bias.
We love open top mesh side pockets.
Back pouch is perfect for wet snowy skins, or a spare jacket. Shovel storage for most people is probably Euro style, inside the pack.
Chest strap position adjusts with the sliding rail type of anchor. We like.
Single tool anchor is centered; not so hot for diagonal ski carry but it'll work if you anchor the skis over one shoulder.
More details:
– Hydration pouch inside pack, nice large access hole and a tube anchor on the pack strap.
– Frame is a simple plastic hoop that’s not super stiff.
– Capacity is a true 30, with zip pockets in both top and bottom of cover flap.
– Weight is a svelt 33 ounces, 936 grams
– All buckles are nicely anchored on composite tabs.
– Bottom is two layer, laminated, which is nice for an all-season pack that might see duty on rocky terrain.
Shop for Deuter Speed Lite 30 and other Deuter packs.
WildSnow.com publisher emeritus and founder Lou (Louis Dawson) has a 50+ years career in climbing, backcountry skiing and ski mountaineering. He was the first person in history to ski down all 54 Colorado 14,000-foot peaks, has authored numerous books about about backcountry skiing, and has skied from the summit of Denali in Alaska, North America’s highest mountain.
