Feb. 4, 2025

We just took delivery of a new Scott Patrol E1 22 Avalanche Backpack in the last week. It is battery-powered and a work of art. Luckily for us, we have another Scott Alpride in the office, which is powered by twin gas cylinders.

Inflation times

In tests we read that gas inflation was quicker than the battery version, and you must assume that these tests were conducted in ‘lab’ conditions. All we can say is that the electric bag inflated immediately and was as tight as a drum skin in no time. There are forensic examinations into avalanche accidents and rescues, and inflation time is a factor in avalanche outcomes. But anecdotally, electric inflation gives us as much confidence as when the gas canisters were deployed in the past.

Wearing the pack

The electric system is reckoned to be heavier than the gas system. There doesn’t feel any discernible difference in weight between the two devices. Scales don’t lie, but it could be that our Scott Alpride operates with two gas canisters. The weight difference between the two certainly didn’t feel relevant.

When riding with the pack, the electric pack just feels more stable. The gas system is hardly explosive, but it does feel more like a loaded gun than the electric version. It isn’t rational, but it is reassuring that you aren’t carrying an ‘explosion’ on your back, no matter that it is simply a hammer piercing two cylinders, creating a rapidly expanding gas.

Testing and repacking

Until you deploy an avalanche pack, it remains an absolute mystery as to what you are carrying. The beauty of the electric version is that you can activate it in a controlled environment, understanding the force needed to trigger the bag and experience the inflation process. Gas-operated avalanche pack cartridges are either single-use or refillable – either way, they are far less reusable than the electric version and don’t lend themselves to test runs. To re-use the electric system, you deflate, repack, and zip shut. It can be ready for further deployment within a few minutes.

There are at least two ways to skin a cat, and things about both systems. I would take either one on the mountain without hesitation. You can read a whole lot of stuff online about the pros and cons of each. If I was in the market for one and had to choose between canisters and electric, it would be electric for sure.

Tags:
Off-piste
Back to News