Gear Review | Mammut Free 22 Removable Airbag 3.0

The Free 22 Freeride avalanche backpack continues to rely on the tried-and-tested cartridge system. This is one of the lightest on the market at just 700g plus cartridge (310g). The entire backpack with airbag system and carbon cartridge weighs 2.2kg and is available in three colours. I received the mint blue colour for testing. Each colour variation has orange accents for more visibility on the mountain.

Test report

Initially, I only carried the backpack when freeriding in the ski area, where it performed very well. I can fit everything I need in it and have no problem stowing a water bottle, snacks and an insulating jacket. As I said before, I can fit everything I need in my backpack, even for day trips. However, to be fair, it has to be said that the selection of items is relatively limited and offers little scope for more individual items.

What I also noticed positively was the front pocket for avalanche safety equipment, which is directly accessible from the outside. I have the impression that the backpack is generally well thought out, as the important items can be reached quickly and the rest can be packed comfortably across the entire back thanks to the zip. I was particularly pleased with the compartment for the radio, as this had never found its ideal place before. Incidentally, the rucksack is also compatible with a hydration system.

Japan is known for its "tree runs" and I am also mainly out and about in the forest, which means that the backpack has already been hit by one or two branches, but so far has not shown any major signs of wear. The light colour is susceptible to stains and due to the transport in the plane and the trips into the forest, it already shows a few signs of soiling. Nevertheless, I personally like the colour very much and the odd bits of dirt can be removed quickly.

The height of the airbag handle can be adjusted in three sizes, which makes it much easier to position it correctly. The airbag can be deactivated by simply folding in the handle so that you don't accidentally draw too much attention to yourself in the lift, for example. The leg loop is simple, adjustable in size and is attached to the waist belt with a loop. The hip belt has the usual metal fastener, which works quite well, but anyone who has ever had a rucksack like this will know that small fights with gloves can occur from time to time.  

Conclusion

A very well-fitting airbag backpack in a nice colour and good compartment layout. If you are mainly looking for a backpack for freeriding in the ski area and occasionally want to go on a few day tours, the Free 22 is just the right backpack for you. For more complex or longer tours, you should look at larger backpacks.

Advantages

+  Good fit

+  Robust

+  Beautiful colour

+  Adjustable release handle

+  Light

+  Amazingly spacious

+ Access to the main compartment from the rear

+ Separate compartment for avalanche equipment, accessible from the outside

Disadvantages

-        only one back length

-         Colour susceptible to dirt

-        Not suitable for longer tours, but that's not what it's designed for!

Information

RRP:

Here is the link to the Mammut website with information about the system and an overview of the various backpacks. Here you can buy the different models at our partner shop Sport Conrad.

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