Big tours, guiding days, and hut-to-hut trips are what the Black Diamond Helio 38 Backpack is built for. This lightweight ski touring pack adds a dedicated avalanche tool compartment, a breathable back panel that sheds snow, and a full set of ski, board, and ice axe carry options. It hauls a full day's kit or an overnight load without feeling bulky on the skin track.

Why we like it:

The lower zip compartment. It gives skins or crampons their own home away from your puffy and lunch, which keeps the main compartment organized at every transition.

Features and Functions:

Black Diamond builds the Helio 38 from 840-denier, 100% recycled nylon. A separate avy tool compartment with a large zip opening maximizes space and contours to the pack's shape, while back panel and top zip access make it easy to reach gear in the main compartment, which also has an internal top zip accessory pocket. A lower zipper adds optional separate storage for skins or crampons, and a large side pocket keeps a water bottle within reach. The monomesh back panel with wave foam sluffs off snow and breathes on the skin track, and dual-density shoulder straps with adjustable load lifters and a sternum strap let you dial in weight distribution. The padded stretch-fit hip belt has a zippered pocket, and an oversized shoulder strap stretch pocket lies flat when empty. Carry options include an A-frame, a removable diagonal ski carry, a removable snowboard carry, dual piolet attachments, and a removable rope carry, plus a hydration sleeve with external routing and internal radio routing.

Bottom Line:

The Helio 38 is the pick for skiers whose days run long, from full-day tours to overnights and guided trips. It has room for extra layers and technical gear while staying light and streamlined.