Osprey Soelden 32L Review: The “Goldilocks” Pack for Riding

When it comes to touring in the backcountry while splitboarding, a comfortable, snug-fitting backpack that keeps weight balanced is key. I have been testing the Osprey line of backpacks for years, and the Osprey Soelden 32L has officially earned its spot as one of my favorites.

In fact, it recently made my roundup of “Must-Have Splitboarding Gear,” and for good reason. After putting it through the wringer on deep powder days and technical ascents here in Jackson Hole, here is why this pack stands out from the dozens of others we’ve tested.

The Fit: Dialed for the Descent

The biggest gripe I usually have with touring packs is the “swing weight.” You work hard to get to the top, but on the way down, a loose pack can throw off your center of gravity.

The Soelden 32L excels here. The suspension uses a LightWire frame and a die-cut EVA foam backpanel that sits close to the body. It feels snug and secure. Whether I was making wiggle turns in tight trees or opening it up in a wide-open bowl, the pack moved with me, not against me.

Sizing: Why 32L?

Osprey offers this line in three sizes: 25L, 32L, and 45L.

If I were leading a longer mission or guiding—where I need to carry extra first aid, repair kits, and gear for other people—I would most likely opt for the 45L pack. It’s a simple rule of backcountry skiing backpacks: the bigger your pack, the more stuff you will inherently carry.

However, for backcountry laps off the ski resort or day tours in the Tetons, the 32L is the sweet spot. It forces you to be efficient but doesn’t leave you wanting. I can easily fit my avalanche tools, a first aid kit, a second set of gloves, backup goggles, layers, and even my skins inside the pack for the ride down.

Features That Matter

We have tested dozens of ski and snowboard packs built for both backcountry and resort riding, and often, the same pack can work for both. The Soelden proves that versatility.

• Avalanche Safety Pocket: This is non-negotiable. The front panel pocket is color-coded (usually a bright zipper pull) and easily accessible. It houses your shovel and probe so you aren’t digging past your lunch during an emergency.

• Backpanel Access: This is a game-changer. You can access the main “dry” storage compartment through the back panel of this splitboard backpack / ski pack. This means when you set the pack down in the snow to grab a layer, the part that touches your back stays dry.

• Helmet Carry: The sewn-in helmet net is clutch for the skin up, keeping your lid secure without taking up internal volume.

• Carry Options: As a splitboarder, I appreciate the vertical front panel carry for the board, but it also has A-frame and diagonal carry options for skiers.

Overall Impression

The Osprey Soelden 32L Backpack ($180.00) is constructed with sustainability in mind (using bluesign® APPROVED nylon and DWR treatments without PFAS), which is always a plus. But ultimately, I use it because it works.

It’s lightweight enough to ease the pain of a grueling ascent but stable enough for playful, dynamic descents. If you are looking for one pack to handle your resort laps and your backcountry explorations, this is the one to checkout.