Gear Review | Arva Tour 32 Switch

Backpack and airbag system

Including the airbag system and carbon cartridge, the backpack weighs just 2050 grams, making it the lightest airbag backpack with a volume of 30 litres on the market, according to the manufacturer. The rucksack is equipped with ARVA's "Switch" technology. This makes it possible to switch between different backpack sizes. The ARVA TOUR is available in the sizes 25L, 32L and 40L. The respective backpack covers can either be purchased separately or directly as a bundle (TOUR 40L airbag backpack + 25L cover).

The length of the backpack's shoulder straps can be adjusted to suit your body size. You can choose between the lengths S, M and L. Intermediate sizes can also be adjusted as required.

The backpack is equipped with the well-known ARVA REACTOR system. According to the manufacturer, the airbag system alone weighs just 680 grams, making it the lightest system on the market. However, the low weight is not at the expense of safety, as the backpack has 2 separate airbag balloons with a total capacity of 150 litres (2x 75 litres).

First impression

The rucksack has an extra compartment at the front for avalanche equipment so that you can get to your avalanche equipment as quickly as possible in an emergency.

Skis can be attached to the backpack using a lateral fixation in the A-frame, which enables better weight distribution. Alternatively, the skis can also be attached diagonally. However, neither attachment option is suitable for a snowboard as a whole.

There is also a helmet holder and good attachment options for 2 ice axes using loops at the bottom and a Velcro fastening system for the shaft at the top. The helmet holder and the 2 loops for the ice axes can be quickly and easily stowed in a small pocket at the bottom of the rucksack if they are not needed.

In addition to a small pocket on the hip belt, the backpack also has a side pocket that is open at the top.

The backpack has proven itself not only in the test at home but also on ski tours. The backpack is very comfortable to wear, even when full. The compartment layout with an extra compartment for avalanche equipment, an upper compartment for ski goggles etc. and a large main compartment is well thought out. The large main compartment can be opened all the way down on both sides. This allows you to quickly access items that are stowed at the bottom of the backpack. The airbag system is located in the main compartment and therefore takes up some space there. I would find it more convenient if there was a partition in the backpack and the main compartment could be used exclusively as storage space.

The small compartment on the outside of the backpack is very useful for me. On the ascent, I often use it for a small water bottle that I want to reach quickly. On the descent, the pocket in combination with the upper side strap is a good storage option for poles. The helmet net supplied is also quick and easy to attach to the backpack and offers a good stowage option for the helmet on the ascent. This means you no longer have to worry about how to best attach the helmet to the backpack without it wobbling around. If the helmet net is not needed, it can be stowed away in the backpack just as quickly. There is a small pocket at the bottom of the backpack for this purpose, in which both the helmet net and the 2 loops for the ice axe can be stowed.

For me as a snowboarder/splitboarder, the lack of attachment options for a snowboard as a whole is the biggest point of criticism. Of course, you can put the board between your back and the backpack as a makeshift solution, but the comfort of this option is limited. The side attachment for a split board works well, although the nose should be tied together at the top using a ski strap or similar. Otherwise it restricts the freedom of movement somewhat. Another small point of criticism is the lower side strap, which is somewhat difficult to adjust or tighten. I would prefer a strap of the same design as the upper one.

Conclusion

Very lightweight and well-designed airbag backpack, the 32L version offers plenty of storage space for day tours with lots of equipment (crampons, crampons, rope). Thanks to the Switch technology, you can also switch to a 25L or 40L cover if required, which are probably more suitable for freeride days (25L) or multi-day tours (40L). The 2 airbag balloons offer an additional level of safety in an emergency. The backpack also impressed us with its high level of comfort and good adjustment options. The only thing to criticise is the lack of attachment options for a snowboard. However, this is not a problem for freeriders and skiers anyway, and those who prefer to attach their splitboard to the backpack will be able to overlook this.

Advantages and disadvantages

+ Very light weight

+ Size-adjustable shoulder straps

+ Pulling the handle can be tested without the cartridge screwed in

+ Change of rucksack cover possible, airbag rucksack for day and multi-day tours

- No snowboard fastening

Information on

RRP €639,-

Double safety: 2 separate airbag balloons
Lightest airbag system on the market: 680 g
Most powerful inflation system on the market
Balloon shape protects the head and optimises buoyancy in the avalanche
Ergonomically shaped and positioned release handle
Release training without cartridge
No electronics or battery
Detachable system compatible with all ARVA REACTOR bags

Here is the Arva website with further information.

The backpack was provided to PowderGuide free of charge by the manufacturer for the duration of the test. You can find out how we tested it in our test statement.