Much of the PowderGuide editorial team loves the well-designed, versatile and durable Patrol backpacks from our longtime partner Evoc and have been using them for touring for years. Previous versions of the "small" Patrol 32 and the medium Patrol 40 have already been tested, now we take the relatively new, large Patrol 55 as an opportunity to take stock of the entire series after many hours of skiing.
First impression and differences between the various models
The Patrol series is basically a classic toploader with a lid pocket, which is divided into two parts and has a padded compartment on the outside (e.g. for ski goggles) and a waterproof valuables or card compartment on the inside. However, all Patrol models also offer access to the main compartment via a zipper - a feature that no one who has ever experienced it in a backpack will ever want to do without again, as you don't have to empty out the entire backpack every time to get to the crampons at the bottom, for example.
The compartment for safety equipment is on the outside and accessible via a zipper, and all models also have a sturdy side ski attachment, a vertical snowboard attachment with metal hooks, which is of course also ideal for attaching other equipment, a small patch pocket on the hip belt, a practical outer pocket on the side, for example for a water bottle or skins, and a helmet holder, which can be attached either at the back of the backpack or above the lid pocket. Of course, there is also an ice axe holder, chest strap, double closure of the main compartment at the top with drawstrings with tankas, a compartment for a hydration bladder and other usual details.
32l version
The smallest version is the only one with 2 ice axe holders, but is otherwise identical to the 40l version except for the size. As it can be easily compressed, the backpack can be used for freeriding in the ski area despite the 32l, but the main focus of use is of course on touring. For practically all types of day tours, tourers who like to pack a lot of equipment should also be able to cope well, even for multi-day tours with overnight stays in huts, the backpack can be used if you don't take too much with you.
40l version
The version with 40 liters of volume is ideal for extended day tours with high material requirements, as well as for multi-day tours with overnight stays in huts, even as self-catering or in winter rooms. You can really pack a lot into the backpack, but it still sits perfectly on the body both on the ascent and during the descent and thanks to the side access you can also easily reach material stowed further down.
55l version
In contrast to the smaller models, the Patrol 55 does not have side access, but the back panel can be opened with a zipper, which makes it even easier to access items stowed far below, especially with the large backpack. In addition, the carrying system is designed with more and stronger (removable) metal struts in order to be able to carry larger loads relatively well. As a final fundamental difference, the Patrol 55 has an additional zippered compartment for small items on the outside of the compartment for safety equipment. Due to its size, the Patrol 55 is of course primarily designed for long trips, even with a tent or really heavy luggage.
