The 32.0 from SKYLOTEC is a well thought-out and versatile alpine backpack. It offers all the features that a ski touring and freeride backpack must have and can also do one thing that users don't want to do without on the rock or on an exposed ridge: The 32.0 from SKYLOTEC contains a patented integrated climbing harness!
Description
At first glance, the 32.0 from SKYLOTEC looks like a conventional mountaineering backpack. But first impressions are deceptive, because there is a compartment hidden in the bottom of the backpack that reveals a unique invention - an integrated climbing harness! Yes, you heard that right. In just four simple steps, you'll be ready to embark on the next via ferrata in the style of freeski mountaineering or ski mountaineering or to venture over a ridge secured by your partner's rope.
How the Skylotec 32.0 (climbing) harness works
The system of the patented integrated climbing harness in the 32.0 works like this: First, you open the easy-to-use Velcro fastener at the bottom of the backpack to reveal the climbing harness (1st handle). Then the leg loops are adjusted so that they are not twisted and are closed around the thighs with a clip fastener (2nd handle on the right, 3rd handle on the left or vice versa). Finally, the tie-in loop, the fixed point for the via ferrata set or rope, is threaded into the waist belt via an aluminum buckle and positioned (4th handle).
By the way, these four hand grips are easily possible with thick gloves. However, until you have solid ground under your feet again and are out of danger of falling, you should keep your hands off the buckle of the hip belt - but this does not mean that you can no longer access the contents of the backpack or operate anything else on the backpack from the moment you have put on the integrated climbing harness. By taking off the shoulder loops and opening the sternum strap (!), the backpack can be easily turned forward along the hip belt and thus operated. Access to the main compartment is located directly on the back and the generous zipper provides a good overview of the contents and makes it easy to reach for a water bottle or snack.
The backpack's compartment layout is also well thought out: the avalanche probe, shovel blade and handle are stored separately from other items in the front compartment, again with individual compartments, and are therefore immediately accessible in an emergency. Another bottom compartment allows you to store skins or crampons. Finally, a map, sun cream and other small items can be stowed in the lid compartment. For ridge ascents, via ferratas or abseiling, the skis can easily be attached individually to the side using the compression straps or attached centrally and diagonally across the backpack. There is also a stowable holder for poles and an ice axe. And of course you don't have to do without the hydration bladder either.
Of course, you don't have to take the climbing harness with you everywhere and can therefore easily remove it from the bottom compartment for city trips or similar. And if you prefer not to wear such a robust aluminum buckle around your hips, you can choose between a conventional plastic hip belt or none at all. Oh yes, and if your buddy forgets their climbing harness while climbing and you happen to be using the 32.0 that day, you can of course help out with the integrated climbing harness. However, your buddy will then be slightly penalized in the B grade, namely B for comfort on long hangs in this harness. But it wasn't actually made for sport climbing.
An overview of the strengths and weaknesses of the Skylotec harness backpack
Advantages
+ The absolute highlight is the integrated climbing harness, which is quick and easy to put on and can be removed.
+ Well thought-out compartment layout, making it easy to pack.
+ Soft shoulder straps and soft back section ensure a comfortable fit.
- As the material of the backpack is partly too soft, the backpack collapses a little, which can cause strapped-on skis to slide around.
- Expensive: The official retail price is 180 euros.
