POC has unveiled the new Dimension Avalanche Backpack, which combines more than one avalanche safety system. Described by POC as ”ultra-durable, innovative, rechargeable, smart and hassle-free,” the backpack is equipped with the Alpride E2 electronic airbag system from Swiss avalanche airbag system specialist Alpride SA. The new E2 system with supercapacitor technology enables an airbag system that is lighter, has more volume and deploys faster than the first E1 generation. Also of great importance are the embedded Recco reflector, which makes the user detectable to rescue workers, and a twICEme medical ID NFC chip, which stores vital first aid data that first responders can use, especially in the “golden hour” after an accident. Both work without batteries or an Internet connection.
The collaboration between POC and Recco was established 15 years ago with ski helmets. In 2015, POC became the first brand to integrate rescue reflectors into bike helmets after introducing the Recco SAR helicopter detector. The technology is based on a two-part radar system. Rescuers carry Recco detectors that emit search signals that are reflected back by Recco reflectors carried by the user. Recco detectors are used at more than 900 ski resorts worldwide and by mountain rescue organizations in 32 countries.
The carrying system of the new Dimension Avalanche Backpack features a reinforced back panel and adjustable weight distribution straps that ensure an immediate, secure and comfortable position on the back. Color-coded straps indicate how to properly attach skis or a snowboard to the pack. The fluorescent orange color of the backpack itself ensures perfect visibility. The backpack uses an extremely high-quality material, Dimension Polyant, which was originally developed for extreme sailing. The fabric is a polyester laminate construction consisting of four fabrics bonded together, guaranteeing durability, total waterproofness, longevity, abrasion and tear resistance. In addition, the outer fabric is made of 100 percent recycled polyester and is DWR treated to prevent the outer material from getting wet.
The backpack has a capacity of 25 liters and weighs 3.2 kg, including the Alpride system. The suggested retail price is €1,300, available online and in stores in Europe from November and the rest of the world from early December 2022.
