Ortovox TOUR RIDER 30L Backpack Review

Venturing into the backcountry demands reliable gear that can seamlessly blend functionality, durability, and comfort. The Ortovox TOUR RIDER 30 Backpack is that ideal companion for small and mid-range tours, offering both a sleek design and fit with just the right amount of room to carry all of your essentials.

30L Capacity

With a generous 30-liter capacity, the Ortovox TOUR RIDER 30 strikes a balance between spaciousness and practicality. The backpack’s dimensions (approx. 55 x 30 x 20 cm) provide ample room for essential gear without compromising on the sleek and streamlined profile. In the areas that need it most, the material is reinforced to ward against abrasion, adding an extra layer of resilience.

If you are a conscious consumer, you’ll appreciate knowing that Ortovox assures the product was manufactured under fair working conditions in conformity with the Fair Wear Foundation, the backpack contains no environmentally harmful per- or polyfluorinated chemicals (PFCs), and it was produced in the most environmentally friendly way possible. With any unavoidable CO2 emissions being offset, the backpack is rated climate neutral. 

Safety + Accessibility

I’m always a fan of backpacks having a separate compartment for my avalanche gear strategically placed for quick access if I ever need it. The TOUR RIDER 30’s dedicated compartment fits my shovel and probe snuggly, with loops to hold the probe and shovel handle. 

Intuitive Design

One standout feature is the backpack’s design. The TOUR RIDER 30 boasts a well-thought-out layout with multiple compartments, making organization a breeze. The main compartment is accessible from both the front and back panel. This gains major points because I hate digging through my backpack to access what’s fallen to the bottom or pulling out my water just to have to shove it (unsuccessfully) back in at the top of my pack where it sloshes around.

A mid-size zippered compartment at the top lets me store my ski straps, an extra buff, and sunscreen. I’ve tried using it for sunglasses or goggles and they  fit, but I’m not sold on it. More on that below. A vertical front pocket is slim, but I’ve found it’s a great place to store extra ski straps, a thin pair of gloves, and some not-crushable snacks.  

Comfortable Carry System

The backpack incorporates an ergonomic and adjustable carry system that ensures comfort during extended tours. Padded shoulder straps, a breathable back panel, and a hip belt contribute to an ergonomic fit. I have a tiny waist and the waist belt on backpacks are typically impossible for me to get tight enough for them to actually be useful.

This pack’s design fit my body much better than others (although you’ll see in the photo that I still have it pulled as tight as possible and there’s a significant amount of extra strap looped up. I’ll usually just trim those down to a manageable size). I like that I have two ways to carry my skis: A Frame or Diagonal. There is also a snowboard and snowshoe carry set up plus loops for hiking poles or an ice axe. 

Features:

• 7 compartments
• Access to the main compartment from the front and back panel
• Separate avalanche gear compartment
• Two option ski carry (A-Frame or diagonal)
• Snowboard and snowshoe attachment
• Ice ax and hiking pole loops
• Chest strap with signal whistle
• Integrated helmet net
• Map compartment
• Hydration system compatible
• Hip pocket

Specs

• 30 liter
• 2 lbs
• Polyester 600D 100% recycled material

What Can Be Improved?

I only have one main gripe about the Ortovox TOUR RIDER 30: the goggle compartment. The mid-size zipper on the top of the pack seems like it wants to be a goggle or sunglass compartment, but it feels a bit too tight and isn’t fleece lined. I would have preferred to see this pocket be better designed. 

Ortovox TOUR RIDER 30L Backpack Pros & Cons

Pros:

• 30L Capacity with sleek design
• Safety + Accessibility with avalanche gear compartment
• Comfortable Carry System with ergonomic fit

Cons:

• Goggle compartment tight and not fleece-lined
• Mid-size zipper pocket could be improved

Overall Impression

The Ortovox TOUR RIDER 30 ($160.00) is a great option for short to medium length backcountry tours. The under-designed goggle compartment isn’t detrimental enough for me to not recommend this pack, and it’s currently my go-to for those half-day adventures. The backpack’s durability, avalanche safety integration, and thoughtful design make it a compelling choice for those who prioritize performance and functionality in their winter adventures.

Related Ski & Snowboard Backpacks We Reviewed

1. Ortovox Free Rider 22L Backpack
2. Dueter Freerider 30L Backpack
3. Dakine Heli Pro 24L Backpack