Raide LF 40L Review
The Raide LF 40L has quickly established itself as one of the premier backcountry ski/ splitboard packs on the market. Functional design coupled with lightweight,yet durable construction are core principles of Raide’s brand.
Some of the key features of the Raide LF 40L pack include:
-100% recycled fabrics that use UHMWPE (generic Dyneema)
– The main fabric is Challenge Ultra 400X which is 2x more tear-resistant and 8x more abrasion-resistant than competing ultralight fabrics.
-The integrated helmet carrying system is built into the top of the pack and securely holds the helmet. This also doubles as the lid for an external stash pocket that works well for carrying skins on the descent or an extra layer on the way up.
-The avalanche safety gear compartment is accessible via an external zipper or via the roll top closure. It provides ample room for a full sized avalanche shovel, 320cm probe and arborist’s saw.
-There are external ice tool carrying straps on the pack, that sleekly and securely carry tools. These also double as a stash for the diagonal ski carrying loop and as a means of carrying a snowboard. An external zippered stash pocket is mounted on the back face of the pack and is a handy place to carry snacks, sunblock etc.
-The Raide LF 40L is set up to carry skis diagonally or a-frame style. Snowboards can be mounted vertically on the pack or carried like skis in split-mode.
-The roll top top hatch provides ample expansion for more gear intensive trips or overnights. It also allows for quick access to the top of the pack, or the possibility of stashing gear within the drawstring enclosure. The roll top can be stashed away for dry days or employed to create a waterproof lid.
-Another key feature of the Raide LF 40L is the zippered back panel access. It allows fast and efficient access to the entire main compartment of the pack. The padding of the back panel can be removed and used as insulation or splinting material in case of an accident. There’s also a zippered mesh pocket for storing important bits, keys or snacks. A removable 80 gram internal aluminum frame provides structure for the pack.
-The pack is compatible with hydration systems and has a drinking tube port as well as attachment point on the shoulder strap.
-The low profile shoulder and waist straps have ample, yet sleek, padding that is perforated to reduce weight and increase breathability. The waist belt has one generously sized zippered pocket provides functional storage space for snacks, lip balm or other small items. The waist belt buckle is bomber and made out of machined metal.
-The profile of the pack is truly exceptional. It has 40l of capacity (Expandable to 50L when the roll top is full extended.), however it carries like a smaller pack. The mass sits low and close to your body, thus it doesn’t adversely affect your skiing like some other packs.
Raide LF 40L Specs
40L, expandable to 50L
• Weight: 1090g, strippable to 900g with removable frame and back panel insert.
• Main fabric: Challenge Ultra 400X, 400d UHMWPE (Dyneema) woven that is 2x more tear resistant and 8x more abrasion resistant than similar ultralight fabrics. This is backed by a waterproof film and is 100% recycled.
Cinch Top: 210d Nylon with UHMWPE ripstop. 100% recycled.
Rolltop: 50d ripstop nylon with UHMWPE crossply
Helmet Carry: Lycra, Nylon, UHMWPE woven.
Frame: 7mm aluminum tubing
Subjective Conclusion
Overall, I am quite impressed with this pack. Raide has managed to tick all the boxes with it’s design. I’ve never had back panel access before, I find it to be extremely convenient and puts less stress on the zipper than side zip access. I also applaud Raide for using recycled materials in their pack. I’d say it’s the best ski pack I’ve ever used.
