Your ski boots need proper protection while you travel. Ski gear, such as your boots, is expensive – but most skiers trust quality and durable backpacks to store and protect them. With all the ski boot backpacks out there, how do you choose the right one?
There are several things to look out for before deciding on a quality ski boot backpack. It should be of the right size and capacity to fit your ski boots, and other skiing gear you may want to pack. Ski boot backpacks should be as lightweight as possible, especially if you are traveling by plane.
There are many high-quality ski boot backpacks on the market. Read on below to find out what you should be looking for in detail.
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Features of the Best Ski Boot Backpacks
Skiing gear can be expensive and fragile. Whether it’s your skis, boots, helmet, gloves, optics, or other accessories, this equipment can all rack up a hefty bill.
And when you’re investing as much as you are in a sport you love, you also want to make sure that your gear lasts as long as possible. This can be done by giving them the protection that they need when not in use. Ski boot backpacks are the trusted accessory of seasoned skiers: they know that choosing the right bag is crucial for the longevity and protection of your boots and other ski equipment you pack into it.
Whether you are traveling by road for a backcountry skiing expedition or going via plane travel to get the freshest powder possible in another country, a bag appropriate for your needs will make all the difference. Read on below to find out what you should be looking for in the best ski boot backpack:
Size
Carefully check the dimensions of a ski boot backpack before you buy it. The bag should be able to fit your ski boots as well as other intended modes of travel, such as by car, train, or plane.
It’s always ideal to use a ski boot bag that is as compact as possible. This way, you don’t have to worry about the bag not being able to fit in most modes of transportation.
Volume
Most ski boot backpacks have a volume of 50 to 70 liters. There are also larger models that offer as much as 90-liter capacities but are still compact. There’s no wrong or right volume to choose from, as long as it has enough room for your ski gear.
Bags in larger sizes can hold more snow gear and accessories, including your goggles, helmet, gloves, and some extra layers to help you stay warm. However, if you are traveling by plane, you might want to keep an eye on the volume of your bag: if you go with a bigger bag that can pack more in, you may also have to spend more on check-in luggage fees.
Weight
Choose a ski boot bag with the lightest weight possible, as long as it meets all your other needs. Its weight plays an important role if you plan to take it with you during air travel.
Every pound counts, especially considering how heavy ski gear can be.
Material
Nylon and polyester are the best materials for a ski or snow bag because of their durability and functionality. They don’t necessarily have to be waterproof, especially if you merely intend to use the backpack for traveling – this means it will likely sit in the plane’s luggage storage, in the trunk of a car, or in the ski locker in a resort most times.
However, with nylon and polyester, you can have peace of mind that when your bag comes into contact with melting snow or moisture, it will simply run off. These fabrics won’t absorb moisture.
Check the fabric’s denier rating to determine its strength and durability. Denier ratings are a unit of measurement that tells how thick the fabric is. The highest the denier rating, the stronger it is.
Given the heavy nature of ski boots and other accessories you’ll be packing into them, a higher denier rating is always best. Go for a bag made with at least 600D nylon or polyester.
Drainage
The ski boot compartment of a backpack must have some kind of drainage, usually with the presence of a few open holes. These ensure that excess water from the snow will seep or drain out instead of accumulating on the boots.
While it’s always best practice to dry your boots a little before storing them, this may not be possible 100% of the time, especially if you’re in a hurry. A few holes or grommets to drain the water will give your backpack an added level of protection from moisture.
Some high-end ski boot bags are equipped with built-in heating, which already dries your wet ski boots. Simply plug it into an outlet. If you have the budget for these pricier models, a bag with a heating option does come in handy too.
Organization
Having enough pockets and compartments for the items you need is an essential feature of the best ski boot backpack. Different backpack designs offer various organizational features, so there’s definitely something for everyone. However, you should choose one that’s equipped with pockets and compartments that are right for your needs.
Some skiers may prefer a ski boot backpack that has a separate pocket for all the items you need for skiing, including layers, optics, gloves, and helmets. Of course, it should also have ample organization for your snow boots. Ski boot compartments vary as well; in some bags, you’ll notice that these are designed for the boots to be next to one another and upright, while in other backpacks, they have one compartment for each boot.
Either way, it’s recommended that a pair of snow boots is always stored separately from everything else because your boots will usually be wet and dirty after use.
In addition, the right pockets should also have ample padding or lining. At the very least, your ski boot compartment should be padded to prevent scrapes and scratches which can happen during a bumpy or rough trip.
Other Features To Consider
Now that you know the essential features to look for in a ski bag, below are optional features that you may find handy:
Versatile carry: A bag with two or more carrying options adds more versatility for trips. Being able to switch from backpack to duffel, for example, allows you to give your shoulders and back a rest when needed. Extra handles on the sides or top are also convenient for pulling your ski bag out of the overhead compartment.
Side pockets: Side pockets, preferably with zippers, are beneficial in many ways. These are great places to keep your water bottles for easy hydration while traveling, and they can also be used to store other items you need quick access to. Side pockets are a great place to keep your cables, chargers, a compressible jacket, and hand warmers.
Standing mat: Some ski bags are equipped with a standing mat, usually in the boot compartment, which you can roll out or unfold to use within seconds. The mat is a convenient feature, providing you with space to dry your feet as you change your footwear.
Our Recommendations for the Best Ski Boot Backpack
Shopping for a backpack that can protect your boots and has enough space for ski equipment can be daunting. To make your shopping easier, here are our teams favorite backpacks to hit the ski fields with:
Thule RoundTrip Ski and Snowboard Boot Backpack: The 55L Thule RoundTrip Ski and Snowboard Boot Backpack offers plenty of room for your ski gear and then some. It comes with numerous thoughtful and practical features, such as the back panel door that opens up into a standing mat so you can change in and out of your boots no matter where you are.
For skiers who like proper organization, this bag has it all. It comes with a SafeZone compartment, perfect for storing fragile equipment such as your sunglasses, goggles, or phone while protecting it from scratches. Each side has a side pocket where you can keep accessories such as outerwear.
There are several grab handles in strategic locations around the bag for easy transportation. The bottom of the pack has been reinforced with tarpaulin so you can have peace of mind during your trips. Additionally, the boot compartment is designed with grommets, to help water escape.
The Thule RoundTrip Ski and Snowboard Boot Backpack are one of the best ski and snowboarding accessories. You can also purchase locks separately to take advantage of the lockable zippers. This is a must-have product for protecting your boots and gear all winter long.
Dakine 50L Boot Pack: The Dakine 50L Boot Pack is one of the most famous boot bags on the market. Constructed from 600D Polyester, this pack has enough space for clothes and ski accessories too.
Each shoulder strap is generously padded to ensure you are comfortable as you trek across the slopes or while traveling cross country. There are several pockets inside and outside the ski pack so all your belongings are well organized. It also comes with a zippered cargo pocket in front for outerwear or accessories, an ID patch, and dedicated pocket for your goggles and a helmet.
The Dakine Boot Pack is simple in design, but huge in terms of functionality. Snowboard or ski boots are kept separately, though easy access is provided through the rear-entry panel. This is a compact bag that you can take with you during air travel as well as on road trips.
Versatility, affordability, and durability: the Dakine Boot Pack is a fool-proof, all-around great ski boot backpack.
Resvin Ski Boot Bag: For those who need an ultra-tough bag, the Resvin Boot Bag is recommended. Constructed with quality 1680D nylon combined with other durable fabrics, this is a bag that can withstand the use that comes with any winter and snowboard adventure.
Available in bright, vibrant, and neutral colors, this bootbag is a great choice for both men and women. The 60L capacity can store adequate gear including your skis, helmet, clothes, jacket, and much more. The bag’s bottom has been thoroughly lined with waterproof tarpaulin for protection from moisture too.
The Resvin Ski Boot Bag is comfortable to wear too, thanks to the padded mesh back panel and thick, padded shoulder straps. Keep your ski boots safely in the padded rear access compartment, while a snowboard can be attached through the external adjustable webbing.
The Resvin Ski Boot Bag is proof that you don’t need to spend a lot of money on a quality ski boot bag.
Extremus Ski Boot Bag 70L: If your ski trip requires a lot more space, the Extremus Ski Boot Bag will not disappoint with its 70-liter capacity. And when you have a bag that spacious, you also need more organization. This backpack has several pockets inside and outside so that you always know where all your gear is.
This bag has a wonderful design, featuring a two-way top-access zipper opening which makes packing and unpacking more efficient. It’s compact, too: with dimensions of 13.2 x 13 x 20 inches, this makes a fantastic choice for air travel.
The Extremus Ski Boot Bag is waterproof and highly durable, made from 1680D Oxford fabric that’s been coated with PVC. Meanwhile, the bag’s bottom is made with abrasion and waterproof PU fabric.
Ergonomic, sponge-padded shoulder straps, a cushioned back panel, and chest straps all contribute to maximum comfort. Snowboards and skis can be attached to the exterior through strong webbing straps. The entire pack makes use of top-quality SBS zippers, which are known for tremendous durability.
Conclusion
Using the best ski boot backpack enables you to hit the slopes with confidence, knowing your gear is always protected. With many terrific and affordable options on the market, use this guide to find the right ski boot bag for your needs.