A lot has happened on the avalanche airbag market. And that's a good thing! In addition to ABS, airbag backpacks are now also available from BCA, Mammut and Snowpulse. The latter have aroused the interest of our tester German Wehinger. He puts his Snowpulse Lifebag under the freeride test magnifying glass.
Something is happening on the avalanche airbag market! More than two decades have now passed since the presentation of the first ABS at ISPO 1985. It wasn't until 2008 that the niche market really got moving. Until then, ABS was the only serious supplier. Gradually, more and more suppliers are trying to secure a slice of the freeride safety equipment market potential. With the introduction of the "Lifebag System" from Snowpulse (now 100% acquired by Mammut), a new approach was presented. Snowpulse particularly promotes the Lifebag System with its Head on Top Technology and protection against mechanical injuries in the head area. In addition to this innovative approach, the provider pursues the same goal as everyone else: to actively prevent burial by an avalanche or, in the event of a burial, to reduce the burial depth.
The Lifebag System in practice
The airbag is stowed in the carriers and can be supplied again very quickly and easily after deployment, taking into account the folding technique (instructions). The deployment works via a cable pull that is connected to the cartridge. Attaching the cable pull is completely uncomplicated. As soon as the release mechanism is pulled, a needle pierces the cartridge and the airbag inflates completely after approx. 3 seconds (self-test). The handle can also be stowed in the carrier, but this is a terrible "fumble" until the trigger handle is unpacked or stowed. The new handle (from model 2011) promises an improvement here. I have retrofitted this. However, the first practical use was not exhilarating. In my opinion, the new release lever is too stiff and it twists while riding, but it is still an improvement on the old one. If the zipper is not fully opened, the grip is so well fixed that it is acceptable. The skis can be attached sideways or diagonally. It also has a holder for an ice axe (another one would be an advantage), a loop for carabiners on the waist belt and a removable helmet holder. There is a small pocket on the left side of the waist belt. The pocket is fastened with Velcro under which the leg loop is stowed. This fixation is suboptimal, as it loosens and the leg loop keeps falling out.
The internal organization of the airbag
The airbag has two large compartments. The front compartment is for shovel and probe. The compartment has special slide-in pockets for this. Skins and, if there is still room, wet clothing can also be stowed here. The large stowage compartment is puristically equipped with compartments such as a drinking bag device and a zippered compartment for smaller items (glasses, money, bars...) that are needed quickly as well as a way to stow the ski goggles.
The stowed airbag in the straps is only annoying at the beginning, as it is an unfamiliar feeling. I didn't notice any disadvantages during use (approx. 100 days). The different straps on the shoulder straps and chest strap allow you to fine-tune the fit to your own needs.
The obvious signs of wear
In my subjective opinion, the material wear is above average. I compare it to my Heli Dakine Pro or the Deuter Bike backpack, among others, which is exposed to mud and dirt, but still looks better than my Snowpluse, which was "only" exposed to wind, snow and rain. The protection against ski edges is also undersized. My straps are already cut and there are several easily recognizable friction points on the backpack. According to the manufacturer, the worn areas are "normal". This is to be expected with such wear and tear.
The triggered Lifebag system
When the airbag is inflated, headroom is restricted, but the field of vision is wide enough to accelerate forwards. My personal experience is that your skis are literally pulled away in an avalanche and there is little chance of escaping the avalanche - immediate deployment is the only solution in most cases. I also noticed that the waist buckle loosens over the course of the day. I was assured by the Snowpulse service that there were no complaints about the buckle and strap and that everything was in order. Unfortunately, the reality is different and the harness keeps coming loose, which is a bit annoying.
Strengths
- Head is stably secured - reduction of mechanical injuries
- No direct snow contact with the head in the prone position
Weaknesses
- Welded seams get torn (according to the manufacturer, future models will no longer have any). manufacturer future models will no longer have any)
- rapid material wear in stressed areas
- no multi-purpose use (summer/winter) of the backpack
Overview of features
Volume: 150 l
Material backpack: Kodra 500 et 1000 deniers
Material airbag: Polyamide 6.6
Size: L from 175 cm and taller
Zipper: YKK, waterproof
Compartments: 2 compartments, one of which is for wet material (skins, shovel. . .). Space for
hydration system
Inner pocket: 1 padded storage pocket for goggles, keys, wallet...
Accessories: compression straps. Pole holder. 1 removable strap allows the attachment
of a snowboard (frontal) and/or skis (diagonal or sideways). Detachable
carrying net for helmet. Integrated guide for hydration system in the straps. One pocket on the waist belt.
Weight: 2,900 (+/- 50g) incl. according to the manufacturer
Conclusion
The Lifebag system is an enrichment for the market and customers. The Head on Top Technology is a new method of protection against mechanical injuries in the head area. However, I was not completely convinced by the quality of the material. In my opinion, there is still potential for development here. For the price of around EUR 800, I think customers can expect more in this respect. The 30 liter model is ideal for day trips and slackcountry skiing. However, it is too small for longer trips or multi-day ski tours.
