Every time I want to write a Gear of the Week, I despair once again at how few pictures there are of me. Especially on skis, they are in short supply. I'm only too happy to simply hide behind the lens. Even though this strategy often works, it has another disadvantage. I'm usually out and about with a photo backpack. Even though camera packs are now really useful, I'm still happy every time I can take my beloved Osprey Variant 37 with me on the mountain.
Even though I've had a lot of packs on my back, none of them have pleased me as much as the Variant. At 37 liters, the size is simply ideal for most mountain activities and it can be tied extremely compactly when it's not full. So it's just as suitable for ski tours as it is for hiking, climbing, canyoning or multi-day tours with a tent on your back. The large main compartment is easy to fill from the top and can be adjusted in height thanks to the drawstring tube and adjustable lid, so that a rope or tent can be packed under the lid. A central tensioning strap with clip keeps everything in position. Two compartments in the lid stow small items, side pockets hold everything that needs to be quickly accessible and a hydration system also fits inside.
The front compartment for the shovel blade is very good and also fits a laptop perfectly when traveling. Ice axe and ski holders round off the features. The carrying system is excellent. The shape of the back can be adjusted perfectly, the hip belt with material loops transfers the load cleanly and the shoulder straps are pleasantly soft without being too bulky. And all the straps are easy to adjust thanks to the lashing straps. There are also features that I have never used and probably never will, such as the loops for hauling the bag or the holders for ice screw quivers.
The only thing I could possibly wish for would be a flexible carrying system with a rotating hip belt. But maybe I don't like a system like that... All in all, I love the backpack so much that I sometimes leave my camera at home just so I can take the Osprey Variant with me. Only to strap it under the lid compartment unprotected at the last moment.
