ABS Avalanche Rescue Devices

Vario 15 Backpack

ABS gives you wings. This airbag avalanche pack has two massive inflatable side bags to give you 170 liters of additional volume that can help you float to the top in the event of a slide. These bags also help protect against trauma during impact. With separate closure and suction, if one bag is damaged, you have another large bag that will remain sufficiently inflated. Its deployment system features a height-adjustable handle so safety is always close at hand. The nitrogen-filled canister is refillable and replaceable. Avalanches are unpredictable, and preparedness can not only save your life but give you peace of mind as your travel. The survival rate with this system is extremely high, but this does not obviate the need for education, training, and the proper equipment.

An included adjustable activation handle comes with a small, internal pressurized release capsule and can be set up on the left or right shoulder strap for easy access, and safety bracket zips into a compartment on either shoulder strap to prevent accidental releases. When pulled, the activation handle punctures the small internal trigger capsule, which in turn activates the piercing unit, puncturing the main canister (also included) to fill the airbags within seconds.The shoulder straps, waist belt, and secure leg strap work together to ensure that the pack stays securely attached and correctly oriented, even in the turmoil of a powerful slide. Once you've deployed the airbags, you must replace the trigger handle and the airbag-inflating canister (replacement must be done through ABS). The other parts of the system are reusable—just fold up the airbags according to the instructions and re-pack them in the hook-and-loop side panel compartments, attach the new canister and trigger handle, and you're ready to ride.

This base unit comes with a 15-liter or 915 cubic-inch zip-on pack. There are mounts for your skis, snowboard, or snowshoes, plus an ice axe carrier and a stowable helmet attachment. An emergency compartment holds your shovel, probe, etc., for quick and easy access. A waterproof zipper and secure multiple inner pockets protect valuables. A water-repellent padded back panel, ergonomically shaped shoulder straps, height-adjustable chest strap, and padded hip-belt make carrying the pack easy. This is a great size for day touring and fast and light trips; other zip-on covers are available separately, so you can use the ABS system with all different size packs, for epic adventures or when guiding a group.