HARD CHARGER
Unless you huck off every cliff in sight, donning body armor is overkill. But a little back protection makes sense for anyone who ventures into exposed, big-mountain terrain. The multitasking, 1,450-cubic-inch Razor is built with a Shield Back System: foam-wrapped polyethylene pads that are part of the internal suspension—and are designed to support and cushion your spine during a fall. 3.8 lbs; deuterusa.com
Bonus: The stashable helmet holder is handy on steep, hot hikes.
Bummer: Felt like a load when I was just riding lifts or out on a casual tour.