Cold World Chaos Dana Designs Bridger Mtn. The mountaineer and the backpacker would seem to have plenty in common, and therefore you'd think the same backpack would serve both just fine. True, both mountaineers and backpackers must move from Point A to Point B with personal belongings in tow, but that's where their similarities end and where their differing needs in equipment begin. In general, a mountaineer doesn't travel as far as a backpacker.
Progression is measured in vertical feet gained rather than linear miles walked.
A lengthy approach hike might total eight miles, after which the mountaineer dumps the contents of his pack to establish base camp. Ascending slopes angled forty-five degrees or higher, where a false move can lead to big trouble, climbers need a pack that wrestles a load of gear so it's close to the back and balanced. Also, upwardly mobile climbers need a pack that can be hauled by rope when the terrain goes vertical, so abrasion resistance and a minimum of loops and straps that might snag are vital qualities. At the same time, an alpine pack should come with exterior attachment points to safely carry an ice axe, crampons, skis, wands, and rope. Think of an alpine pack as a sports car sleek, not much cargo room, and built for speed.