Raide Research and Safeback are teaming up to launch the world’s lightest avalanche backpacks for the Winter 24/25 season, designed specifically for winter sports enthusiasts navigating steep terrains.
Emerging from a shared frustration with existing winter travel gear, the collaboration aims to enhance safety and comfort for backcountry skiers. Raide has focused on refining its LF40 backpack and integrating Safeback’s innovative SBX technology into both the new 30L (Raide SB 30L) and 40L (Raide SB 40L) models.
“Safeback provides an extra safety margin without compromising weight—a key consideration for serious skiers,” said Kyle Siegel, CEO and Founder of Raide. “By incorporating the SBX system into our backpacks, we hope to encourage more skiers to choose the Raide SB packs for their backcountry adventures.”
The SBX system, which won the ISPO Award in 2022, is a groundbreaking technology that actively supplies air to avalanche or tree well victims, significantly extending survival time without requiring a mouthpiece. The SBX system adds minimal weight, keeping the total pack weight at just 520 grams.
“The lightweight design of Raide’s backpacks pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in avalanche safety gear,” said Tor Berge, CEO and Co-founder of Safeback. “We are thrilled to see the SBX integrated into packs that skiers will be excited to use, especially when it’s time to activate their beacons.”
The Raide SB backpacks will weigh 1,730 grams for the 30L model and 1,880 grams for the 40L model, making them the lightest avalanche backpacks available in their respective sizes. The SBX integration maintains the core functionalities of the LF40, ensuring a highly effective ski touring and mountaineering experience.
In addition to the SBX features, Raide’s lineup includes an innovative bottom-access zipper for rapid deployment of probes and shovels. Rescuers can access their probe from a dedicated zipper on the bottom-right of the pack without unclipping the hip belt, ensuring that the SBX remains in place in case of a secondary avalanche. Shovels are accessible through a separate zipper, allowing for quick retrieval while the pack is still worn.
The Raide SB backpacks will be available for purchase on Raide’s website, raideresearch.com, as well as select retailers in the U.S. and Europe, starting November 2024.
- Raide SB 30L: $879
- Raide SB 40L: $899
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