ProView – Backcountry Access Stash 30 & Shaxe
At first glance the Stash 30 backpack from Backcountry Access in the blue color with orange highlights is a little flashy for my taste (it also comes in black), however, after giving it some thought, it’s perfect for Denver Broncos fans and for additional visibility on the mountain.
I also used the Backcountry Access ice axe and shovel combo, a.k.a. the “Shaxe.” It was super useful as I skidded across a snow field that was a little sketchy for a traverse. The first thing to notice about this pack, shovel and axe combo is the weight, especially the axe and shovel.
When compared to the weight of my axe/shovel combo that I used to carry, it’s especially light: 1.4lbs. for the shovel, 0.6 lbs for the axe. Holy S***! That’s light! As a backcountry skier and hiker, this is a huge improvement. When you’ve got several miles to skin/hike and most of it is uphill, every bit of weight counts.
The Stash 30 is, I feel, the perfect size and is very comfortable. It’s great for day-long backcountry skiing days. The straps, while small, are comfortable and have a few zippered compartments to hold your energy gels, food, chapstick, etc. without feeling bulky. The main compartment is separate from the shovel compartment. This may sound a bit trivial, but it’s a relief to worry less about your extra layers getting wet, and being able to focus on getting to and from your destination.
https://youtu.be/z1AH5x2nZuk
There are many (many!) zippered pockets on this pack and, for those that are organized, it really is helpful to know exactly where everything is – food, water, layers, beer, etc.- and there is plenty of room for all of that and a lot more.
If I were to be picky, and this is a stretch because I love everything about this pack, I would need to say that the buckles could stand to be a bit beefier. I broke one trying to cinch it down onto a camera tripod. (I know, not it’s intended use, but hey, people will be trying to attached skis to it). Overall I give it a 9/10 on the great-stuff-o-meter and can’t wait to use it this season.
(Note that BCA addressed the buckle durability issue for their production models, the pack reviewed was a early sample prototype.)
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Joe Pyle is an avid skier, climber, and outdoor photographer based in Estes Park, Colorado.