GATE HOPPER
The 1,098-cubic-inch Silo 18 is an ideal choice when you’re jumping between the lifts and the sidecountry. Three stash pockets (one internal, two external) help you keep track of quick-grab items. The polyethylene back panel is just tough and stiff enough to make a solid base for ski hauling yet svelte enough to meld the pack to your torso. Plus, with its removable waist belt and
sturdy haul loop, it’s travel-friendly. There’s a reservoir sleeve (bladder sold separately), but it lacks an insulated tube sleeve on the shoulder straps. Also, while the center-mounted ski straps can double as a bare-bones snowboard-carry system, it’s not a perfect solution. Boarders will want the larger, 1,830-cubic-inch Silo 30 ($169), which has dedicated snowboard straps. 2.2 lbs;