Connor Burkesmith Testing the Dakine Heli Pro 24L Backpack in the Tetons | Photo Jessica Neuhaus Mountain Weekly News
I recently got my hands on the Dakine Heli Pro 24L Backpack, and it has proven to be an excellent companion for quick day missions in the backcountry. Here’s a detailed review based on my experience. This pack made our list of the best ski & snowboard backpacks for its durability.
Fit and Design
The Dakine Heli Pro 24L backpack, with its one-size-fits-all design, fit me quite well, even at 6’1″. Note: there is a female and male version which likely have different dimensions. The dry mesh back panel kept my back comfortable and dry throughout the tours and had enough stiffness to evenly distribute weight to my hips. The Heli Pro 24L’s compact design is a standout feature, providing a sleek and streamlined profile ideal for short to medium tours and resort days.
Day Mission Specialist
This backpack excels in its intended use – short to medium tours. The Dakine Heli Pro 24L is not designed for longer tours or technical outings that require extensive gear like ropes, crampons, or ice tools. However, for the purpose it serves, it’s outstanding. The dedicated probe and shovel compartment is a must for those going into the backcountry, ensuring quick and easy access to essential safety equipment.
Touring-Friendly Rear Entry
The rear entry to the main compartment is a thoughtful design choice, especially for touring. It allows easy access to gear without having to remove the entire contents of the bag, a feature I’ve come to appreciate during longer treks. The rear entry enhances efficiency and convenience when you’re on the move.
Materials
The Heli Pro 24L backpack is made from 600D Polyester with water repellent finish. Now if you’re like the rest of us you likely have no idea what this means. After taking this bag through its paces I can tell the material is high quality and durable with great construction quality. I’m excited to see how long this bad boy lasts me.
Ski and Snowboard Carry
For such a compact bag I was surprised to see that the Dakine Heli Pro 24 can carry skis either diagonally or in the A-frame and a snowboard vertically or horizontally. A great design choice from Dakine to suit whatever conditions or preferences you have. Plus the Dakine Heli Pro Helmet Carry is super easy to use storing on the outside of the pack.
Dakine Heli Pro 24L Backpack Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Compact and sleek design ideal for short tours
- Dedicated probe and shovel compartment for safety gear
- Touring-friendly rear entry for easy access
Cons:
- Not designed for longer tours.
- May not accommodate extensive gear.
- No specific cons mentioned in the text.
Overall Impression
In conclusion, the Dakine Heli Pro 24L Backpack ($140.00) is a well-crafted and purposeful companion for short to medium day missions in the backcountry. While it may not be suitable for extended tours requiring extensive gear, its compact design, touring-friendly features, and durable construction make it an excellent choice for those seeking efficiency and functionality in a winter backpack. See how this compares to our other top picks in the 2026 splitboard / backcountry ski backpack guide.
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