Osprey Soelden 32: Full Breakdown
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The quick verdict: A technical touring pack with backpanel access, a real avy pocket, and Osprey’s carry comfort at a price most rivals cannot touch. ~$195
Overview
The Soelden (and its women’s counterpart, the Sopris) is Osprey’s dedicated alpine touring line, and the 32-liter version hits the volume sweet spot for full backcountry days. The pitch is simple: bring Osprey’s decades of suspension know-how to a snow pack, add the winter-specific features that matter, and undercut the technical competition on price. The LightWire frame moves heavy loads onto your hips, the fabric shrugs off snow, and the layout keeps safety gear away from everything else.
Where It Shines
- Backpanel access means you dig for gear with the straps up and out of the snow
- Dedicated front pocket organizes shovel and probe for one-pull access
- Carry comfort under load is a clear step above most snow packs at this price
- Handles skis, snowboards, a helmet, and even a rescue sled without aftermarket straps
- Glove-friendly buckles and zipper pulls throughout
Tradeoffs to Know
- One back length only; smaller-framed skiers may prefer the Dawn Patrol 32 with its two sizes or the women’s-specific Sopris 32
- Heavier than minimalist packs like the Freerider 30
- No airbag option; Osprey’s airbag models sit in a much higher price bracket
Who It’s For
The skier or splitboarder building a real backcountry kit who wants one pack for sidecountry laps and full touring days without spending Dawn Patrol money. If your days are mostly inbounds, save with the Heli Pro 20L instead; the Soelden’s volume is wasted on a chairlift.
How It Compares
See how it stacks up in our full guide: The Best Ski Backpacks of 2026-27. Other picks from that list: Dakine Heli Pro 20L · Black Diamond Dawn Patrol 32 · Deuter Freerider 30 · Mammut Tour 30 Removable Airbag 3.0.