Gear Review | Mammut Eiger Free 20 RAS 3.0

First impression

As you would expect, the backpack has a high-quality finish: The seams appear robust, the materials carefully selected and the overall concept well thought out. The small changes - for example to the leg straps - compared to Mammut's Free and Tour Airbag lines are striking. These adjustments are clearly recognizable as weight savings, but they are sensibly solved and continue to convey safety.

Another striking feature is that the backpack can only be opened via the back. There are no longer any additional access points or compartments - such as a goggle compartment - and apart from the main compartment, there is only front access to the airbag. Speaking of the airbag: it takes up significantly less space than in previous models, which suggests that it is folded differently and more efficiently.

The cartridge, on the other hand, remains unchanged. It has not decreased in size and, as usual, is attached to the airbag in the same place and secured with Velcro - this time, however, without the neoprene sock that used to be standard.

When putting it on, it is also noticeable that the backpack fits snugly against the back and can be secured firmly. The practical test will show how this proves in use.

Tester and test conditions

I spend about 40-80 days a season on skis or snowboard and am out and about freeriding in the ski area as well as on more or less extended tours.

I'm about 170 cm tall and weigh between 60 and 65 kg, depending on how well my legs are trained. My body proportions are relatively average - I have neither a particularly short nor a particularly long back. The Eiger Free 20 Airbag is only available in one size, which fits me very well.

My avalanche equipment consists of the Alugator Ultra and the Probe 240 Speed Lock, so a rather lightweight setup that suits my riding style and touring profile well.

I had the airbag with me on day tours, freeriding and during my annual beacon training.

I also had no problems with the packing volume to accommodate my usual companions:

• First aid kit

• Interchangeable ski goggles

• sunglasses

• down jacket

• Shovel, probe

• Snacks

• PowderGuide thermos flask

• Thin gloves

• Skins if necessary

However, I wouldn't have been able to fit much more in - but with a volume of 20 liters, that's not to be expected. My packing list hardly changes for day trips. However, my jacket didn't fit into the backpack for the ascent and had to be attached to the side. My ski goggles and thick gloves went into my helmet, which I was able to attach using the integrated helmet holder.

I don't own a splitboard, but the ski poles would definitely no longer find a place in the backpack on the descent and would have to be attached to the outside. The question of the best position remains - a case for the "Splittie of the Week". :)

Beacon training

During beacon training, the backpack is an optional part of the avalanche safety equipment, but it is essential to have a shovel and probe to hand. I've noticed that although I can get to my shovel and probe very quickly, provided I've packed my backpack properly, everything else can fall out very quickly. In windy conditions, like on my training day, I had some trouble preventing my down jacket from taking on a life of its own. Sure, I could have stowed it better in its bag beforehand, but let's be honest: who always does that?

Conclusion

The Eiger Free 20 Airbag impresses with its excellent fit, high wearing comfort and a tight, secure fit - you hardly feel it even when moving quickly in the terrain. The packing volume of 20 L is sufficient for all important essentials on day tours and freeriding, from shovel and probe to changeable glasses, down jacket and snacks.

There is a small disadvantage during avalanche/ rescue situations: while the shovel and probe are easy to reach, other items can easily slip in windy conditions if they are not additionally secured. This is usually not a problem, but should be taken into consideration.

Overall, the Eiger Free 20 offers a lightweight, functional and well thought-out overall package - minimalist, easy to move around in and ideal for day tours and freeride missions.

Advantages and disadvantages

+ very light

+ chic design

+ minimalist, but still has everything you need and is surprisingly spacious

- no separate avalanche compartment

± 20L

More information

Price RRP: 790€

• 1480g with carbon cartridge

• The Eiger Hook System is a versatile mount for skis, snowboards, ice axes and more. We have designed it for improved durability, repairability and ease of use

• The backpack includes the Removable Airbag System 3.0 (excl. compressed air cartridge): a reliable, lightweight and compact system with height-adjustable release handle and airbag in orange signal color. Transferable between compatible backpacks

• Integrated helmet holder

• Rear, full zipper access to the main compartment

• Side compression straps

• Diagonal ski attachment

• Snowboard holder

• Splitboard holder (board can also be attached in two parts)

• 2 holders for ice axe and trekking poles

• Pocket for radio

Hydration system compatible

Click here to visit the Mammut website for more information.

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