Dakine Heli Pro Backpack Review

If you find yourself hiking bowls, trees or other non-lift serviced terrain, a Dakine Heli Pro Backpack is exactly what you need. Aspen/Snowmass Colorado is where I love to shred in the winter, and their is limitless terrain that is only accessible by foot. Instead of carrying my skis or snowboard over my shoulder I strap them to a Heli Pro. 

I have had my Dakine Heli Pro for four seasons and it is by far the best backpack I have ever owned. Whether I'm shredding skis or a snowboard, the Heli Pro can accommodate all of my gear. The backpack carries skis diagonally across the front pockets, and carries snowboards horizontally through the arm straps and the back cushion. Having gear strapped to my backpack lets me hike with my hands free allowing me to focus on breathing, foot placement and the music in my ipod.

Inside the backpack their is plenty of room for an additional equipment. An extra shell, base layer, gloves, socks and Red Bulls (very crucial) can all pack inside with room to spare. The fleece lined goggle pocket, water bottle pocket and ice axe holster are all features designed to make the backcountry experience more enjoyable. The Heli Pro also has a waterproof camera pocket located on the belt buckle making it extremely easy to take snapshots of my buddies killing it.

With all the great hiking features aside, their are two final things I love most about my Dakine Heli Pro...

The first thing is comfort. The backpack is extremely comfortable to wear, especially when it's loaded up with gear. The back pad lets you hike without feeling anything that your carrying inside the bag. It also has a large pad toward the bottom of the pack, which gives incredible lower back support when carrying a lot of weight.

And last but not least... The Dakine Heli Pro looks DOPE! Not only does it look cool when your hiking, but it looks awesome everywhere else too. When your skiing on trail, waiting in the lift line, chillin' in the lodge, walking through the airport or even just kickin' it in your hometown, the Dakine Heli Pro delivers serious style points.

So if you find yourself in need a backpack to get to seriously awesome terrain, pick up a Dakine Heli Pro.