Dakine Tactic Ski and Snowboard Backpack

dakinetactic DaKine Tactic Backpack—for the riders who get up for the first chair and don’t stop ‘til they get enough

DaKine has a good reputation for making solidly engineered packs that are not only well designed and easy to use, but also are durable, built to last a long time. DaKine also has a great reputation for making comfortable packs that also look stylin’ as you are cruising down the slopes. The DaKine Tactic ski and snowboard pack is no exception—and has a ton of features that make it great for multi-purpose use.

The Tactic pack is the perfect day-pack for backcountry skiers or those who like to sneak out of the gates at the resort for a few runs. Big enough to hold you essential backcountry gear—like your beacon, shovel and probe—but small enough to ride the chair with, the Tactic pack is the perfect size at 1500 cubic inches. It’s just big enough to fit your avy tools and some clothes for a day of touring.

The front shovel pocket also keep your avy gear easy-to-reach. The pack also features and ice axe loop on the outside when you need a little extra help making it to the top of the couloir. The pack also feature an insulated hydration sleeve, which ensures that your water won’t freeze even on the coldest days on the mountain.

Another must for any backcountry pack is a ski carry system, which the Tactic definitely has. Featuring a retractable ski carry system that carries your skis diagonally makes it ideal for those hikes to the top of the ridge, or strapping your skis on your back for the hike back to the lift after hitting some deep stuff in the sidecountry.

Extra features on this pack include a deployable water bottle pocket, padded shoulder straps and a padded pocket in the waistband for your digital camera. The padded straps make it super comfy and keep the pack close to your body and the camera pocket ensures your digi is only a zip away when you want to capture your friend hucking a 360 off the cliff.

The fleece lined sunglasses pocket and the load compression straps are extra bonuses to this DaKine pack.

>>Check out more of the best ski and snowboard backpacks

The Quick & Dirty:
Where you can get one:
Buy DaKine Tactic Pack $115

Why it Rocks:

Seat-of-the-pants rating: 8 out of 10

While this is an excellent pack for those skiing mostly inbounds with quick trips into the sidecountry, the pack is a little too small to carry all of your gear for some serious backcountry touring. That being said, for those looking for a great pack that’ll fit their avy gear and still be comfortable to ride up the lift with, than the Tactic is a good choice. It compresses well and stays close to the body with it’s 4 independent straps and snug shoulder harness system. The waterproof zippers (essential when cutting tracks through that super deep powder), fleece lined sunglasses/camera pocket, insulated hydration sleeve and retractable ski carry system all make the DaKine Tactic a great pack for dropping in and out of the resort or as a light backcountry day pack.

Looking to Buy? Here’s where you can get one:
Buy DaKine Tactic Pack $115