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Backpacks

A race backpack has a different job from a school bag: it carries boots, a helmet and armour to the hill, and it has to do it without crushing the helmet or soaking everything when wet boots go in.

Look for a dedicated helmet compartment rather than a strap on the outside, ventilated or lined boot sections so damp gear does not sit against clothing, and a back panel that carries weight on the hips. A loaded boot bag is heavier than it looks by the time you have walked from the far end of the lot.

Capacity around 40–50 litres covers boots, helmet, armour and a change of clothes for a day. Larger sizes are for travel.

See gear bags, ski bags and heated bags, or all bags.

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