Came across this video on the Backcountry Access Float 30 avalanche airbag being inflated. While BCA isn’t the first company to market an airbag pack for the backcountry they are definitely the most affordable option (by about 50%), with the Float 30 set to MSRP for a buck under $500 when it releases later this fall. Hopefully the trickle down effect will see their airbag tech in more packs at cheaper price points (people will pay $1k for skis and $400 for bindings, but scoff at a $500 pack that may save their life…) in their line so that there are more people equipped with this tech in the BC. More importantly, hopefully this pack doesn’t become a perceived ‘invincibility shield’ leading to bad decision making in the backcountry!
Obviously I’m just going on product shots and one video and have yet to taste/feel/smell the pack, but I like what I’m seeing thus far. I really like how the bag DOESN’T wrap around your head fully like some of the competing products, seems like with the BCA pack inflated you’d still be able to (relatively) comfortably try and get out of the situation. Good stuff thus far though.
BCA Float 30
If your local shop doesn’t carry the BCA Float pack you can pick them up online here
