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Osprey Packs Switch 25+5 - 1500 cu in
When Osprey asked us what we wanted we told them this: “We want a pack that you can yo-yo with that carries your water and a shovel.” Osprey's answer: The Aquasource. It detaches from the main pack via 4 buckles and slides out from the back panel. It has one big zipper that opens at the bite valve for gulps on the fly. A second zipper allows access to the inside of the pack which bellows out just enough to carry food or your skins. On the outside of the pack, a bungee cord straps down a shovel. Next we said, “We want a designated tools pocket for a shovel, skins, a probe and crampons.” Osprey's answer: A separate snow safety gear compartment with slider lock-off that has organizers for a shovel, skins and a probe. Crampons fit there, too. “We want a pocket on the top of the pack to keep food where it won't get smashed.” Osprey's answer: A big shelf pocket on top that drops into the body of the pack to keep food in tact. Of course, we wanted backside panel entry into the main body cuz it's the handiest, and Osprey obliged. The panel-loading main pack has enough space for extra layers. Other great features include a front slash pocket with key clip, safety equipment pocket on the hip belt, foam reinforced sidewall crescents to keep the pack rigid, stowable and adjustable diagonal ski carry loops, reinforced ski carry straps, abrasion patches under compression wings that guard against snowboard edges, and reinforced wear points for horizontal snowboard carry. Can you think of anything else? Neither can we.
$148.95 
Tricky Pack
I don't really care for this pack mainly because it is quite complicated. When I say complicated I mean it's just to many little things to deal with while wearing gloves. Even to just to get inside the main gear compartment of your pack you have to unclip and unzip too many little things. The zipper to get into the main compartment of the pack seems to snag often. Part of the reason this seems to happen is the strange bungee (which does not seem to be adjustable) that is around the outside of the zipper. I'm also not so crazy about the hydration system. It could be nice to have a hydration system that you can remove and just wear, but so far I have not found any reason to do this. I realize that's where the term Switch comes from, but it seems pointless. Also the velcro-y system that holds the hydration pack to the main pack is a pain when trying to fill up the hydration bladder. Not only that, but when the bladder is full, the amount of gear you can carry is greatly reduced. I just don't feel this pack is all the hype it was talked up to be.
Best Ski pack ever made.
Osprey asked me what I wanted in a backcountry ski pack. I told them what I wanted and they made this pack. If you tour and you yo-yo and are about organization this is the best ski pack out there period. It handles all your gear and seperates like no pack out there. Trust me I'm the Head Buyer here.
great lil' day hiker
I've used this pack several times on day hikes (and even one overnighter) and I really enjoy it. Despite its small size I can fit a ton of stuff in it. It is really comfortable as far as weight distribution but also really hot on the back.
Great
The backpack works well for a all day ski trip into the backcountry. If you plan on carrying tons of equipment I would recommend a bigger bag. When it gets too full the stuff pushes on the bladder.
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Training Tips
Have two pairs of running shoes, especially if you live in a wet climate. Consider replacing your shoes no later than 500 miles into the life of the shoes.
Proper hydration for a run includes drinking 30 - 45 minutes before you start and about a cup every 10 - 15 minutes while running.
One of the best ways to win a running race is to win it in your mind first. Visualize yourself running and winning that important race. The more often you do this, you will start to "feel" the race. Your heart will get pumping and your body will feel the effort required to get the job done.
Be serious about getting and staying in shape. Create a written plan that outlines the steps you are taking and the expected result by a certain date. Review your plan frequently and adjust as necessary. Do what it takes to get what you want.
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