DB LAUNCHES FJÄLL TECHNICAL BACKPACK
Written by Katie Bamber
Published by Fall Line Skiing on December 2nd, 2022
Db launches its new backcountry Fjäll technical pack – a 34L backpack with all the features needed for a journey into the backcountry. It’s been designed together with Chamonix-based freeskier and mountain guide Sam Favret.
Key features include:
Dual access main compartment with the back panel opening fully gives total visibility of all gear
An external avalanche compartment for a probe, shovel and other glacier tools
An internal rope compartment, detachable goggle pocket, internal mesh pockets and quick-access pockets for easy reach on and off the mountain
A structured A-frame that holds its shape when laden with skis or a snowboard
Ergonomic straps limit shifting of the pack when carrying, while enabling freedom of movement when touring, climbing, or skiing
GOOD THINGS TAKE TIME
For the past three years, Db’s lead Snow designer, Hunter Nordhauser, has been working closely with Chamonix local Sam Favret to develop the Fjäll. Both Sam’s and Hunter’s expertise lies in the backcountry, and together they assembled a team with the technical knowledge and firsthand experience required to create a bag meeting the needs of mountain explorers everywhere.
The three-year development period is par for the course for Db products. Getting the Fjäll’s design just right was more important than getting it sold. Proof that good things take time.
“This is a three-year-long development concept. I have used it every winter for over 100 days, testing in every condition of the Chamonix mountains”
SAM FAVRET, MOUNTAIN GUIDE, SKIER AND CO-DESIGNER
DESIGNED IN CHAMONIX
Informed by Sam’s specific needs as a mountain guide, the Fjäll is a technical pack boasting all the features needed for a journey into the backcountry.
The main compartment is dual access, with the back panel opening fully to allow total visibility of all gear. The external avalanche compartment holds a probe, shovel and other glacier tools, and features a designated drainage hole to prevent the build up of ice and water.
An internal rope compartment, detachable goggle pocket, internal mesh pockets and quick-access pockets on the bag’s flank and hip belt mean all essentials are within easy reach, both on and off the mountain.
The pack has been designed around a structured frame that holds its shape when laden with skis or a snowboard. The Fjäll is predominantly an A-Frame carrying pack for splitboards and skis, but also provides the option for carrying a snowboard on the face.
The structured frame works in tandem with load lifters on the shoulder straps to transfer weight from the back and distribute it evenly across hips and shoulders.
Ergonomic straps designed to fit over bulky ski jackets and puffers, along with a removable hip belt, ensure the Fjäll remains both secure and comfortable. The straps limit shifting of the pack when carrying, while enabling freedom of movement when touring, climbing, or skiing.
Glove-friendly buckles and metal hardware means fumbling with flimsy plastic is a thing of the past and even a crampon-clad boot won’t cause any damage.
The Fjäll is a versatile bag, with a clean design that also works in the city. Roll-top access provides expandable litreage for bulky items like jackets and helmets, with accessible pockets, internal organisation and the option for an additional external module making this pack purpose-built for adventures in the peaks and on the streets.
The Fjäll backpack is compatible with Db’s patented Hook-Up System™, allowing wearers to daisy-chain it to the rest of their Db travel setup for seamless, stress-free travel. It works for a winter hike with friends, fits into your daily commute, and is compatible with Db’s camera inserts for creative outings.
What’s more, the Fjäll has been built with recycled materials and tested to the highest standards.
This article was originally published on Fall Line Skiing.