GEAR | Thule Upslope Snowsports Backpack 20L in Lime Punch – Review

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Thule Upslope 20l Snowsports Backpack

What is it?

Thule Upslope Backpack £105.00
Buy it here

Features

  • Access gear in the main compartment without removing the backpack through a zipper that coils around the entire pack
  • Three ways to access your gear – traditional top load, sling style side access and main compartment access while pack is on your back
  • Incredibly comfortable and stable ride from side pockets that wrap around and hug the body
  • Easily clip a helmet or additional items to dedicated lash points
  • Securely attach skis with diagonal carry or a snowboard with vertical carry
  • Fit a variety of ski and board widths with adjustable carry loop that also stows to prevent snagging
  • Prevent goggles or sunglasses from getting crushed on the ski lift with quick access side pocket storage
  • Stay hydrated and help prevent hose freeze with an insulated hydration sleeve (hydration reservoir sold separately)
  • Store a mountain tool in the stowable ice axe loop that can tuck away to prevent snagging
  • Prevent gear from shifting inside pack by cinching internal compression
Thule Upslope 20l Snowsports Backpack

The Verdict

The first thing to say is that I simply love the colour of this backpack. I can’t stand bland and boring colours and if something comes in acid bright pink, purple or lime, that’s what I’ll choose. For those not quite so keen on the bright colour, the Thule Upslope is also available in dark blue and there are 3 different size packs to choose from.

Thule Upslope 20l Snowsports Backpack

The smallest, which I tested is 20L, then there’s a 25L and a 35L option too and it’s also worth noting that the larger backpacks can be used with a Mammut avalanche airbag.

Thule Upslope 20l Snowsports Backpack

When it comes to boarding I’m strictly one for staying on-piste, so you won’t find me hiking up an inaccessible mountain and snowboarding down a crazy-looking vertical, so whilst the straps on the bag can be used for holding skis or a snowboard, I didn’t use it for that purpose.

Thule Upslope 20l Snowsports Backpack

I always ride with a backpack on, but usually like to keep my pack small as if it’s too big, sitting on chairlifts can be a pain, so at 20L it’s bigger than I’d usually use when snowboarding, but of course thanks to its size, It meant I could fit heaps more stuff in my pack which was useful.

Due to the size of the pack and my style of riding, I only took the Upslope onto the slopes with me on one day, as for a day on piste cruising reds, it’s just too big for my needs, but I did use it as my hand luggage whilst traveling, and when out and about exploring some of the alps on foot, and it was versatile enough to make a great backpack for general use. Due to its size, it also meant that I could stop off at the shops and load it with supplies before returning to the chalet.

Thule Upslope 20l Snowsports Backpack

As I was traveling alone, I also had a huge snowboard bag and a 20kg suitcase to lug around with me, so I really appreciated how spacious and comfortable the Upslope was to wear. It has a heavily padded back and thick padded straps and it’s highly adjustable too, and it’s extremely comfortable to wear.

Thule Upslope 20l Snowsports Backpack
My snowboard bag, suitcase and Thule Upslope snowsports backpack

There are straps and clips on the outside of the backpack which allow it to hold skis or a snowboard securely, so it really is aimed at those seeking off-piste adventures and mountain hikes. To wear on the mountain day to day however, I found it too big, and preferred to stick to the much smaller Thule UpTake hydration pack which at 8L is closer to the usual size backpack I wear when riding.

Inside the Thule upslope backpack

What I liked most

  • Heavily padded back and straps which make the backpack very comfortable to wear
  • Zipped hip pockets for quick easy access and one pocket which contained a clip that was useful for securing my phone
  • Really generous size and versatile enough to use for regular hiking as well as snowsports
  • Two large pouches inside the backpack that were the ideal size to carry my laptop and tablet securely
  • I love the colour and styling of this bag and it’s excellent quality

If you’re looking for a great quality backpack for mountain hikes and snowsports, then the Thule Upslope is well worth considering. It’s well padded and very comfortable to wear and is a great size for hardcore off-piste hikes, but versatile enough to use away from the slopes too.

Thule Upslope 20l Snowsports Backpack
Our Rating

Quality 5/5

Practicality 4.5/5

Looks 5/5

Value 3.5/5

Overall Rating 4.5 out of 5 stars (4.5 / 5)

Thank you to Thule who supplied the featured product. We were not paid to write this review.

Where to next?

Shell Robshaw-Bryan
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