Early-morning tours, spring ski mountaineering, and in-bounds storm days all suit the Black Diamond Dawn Patrol 25 Backpack. This compact recycled-fabric pack carries avalanche gear in a dedicated front pocket and stashes skins in large hip-belt pockets. It's small enough for quick missions and organized enough to transition fast at the top.

Why we like it:

The hip-belt pockets. They're purpose-built to hold skins for the ride down, so you can rip, stuff, and go without taking the pack off.

Features and Functions:

The large hip-belt pockets are the standout on the Dawn Patrol 25, sized to store skins for the downhill. Body fabric is 100% post-consumer recycled, and the form-fitting suspension uses snow-shedding fabric construction with zippered back-panel access for easy entry. A separate front snow safety pocket holds your avalanche safety kit, and an oversized insulated shoulder pocket carries a hydration tube, soft flask, or radio. An internal zippered pocket with a key clip keeps keys secure. For external carry, choose between a tuck-away diagonal ski carry and a vertical snowboard carry, with attachment points for a helmet and piolets as well.

Bottom Line:

The Dawn Patrol 25 is a compact pack for shorter trips and fast missions, with room for some extra layers, food, water, and snow safety gear. It's also a smart storm-day pack for resort skiers who keep avalanche gear with them.