I carry in the store, Dakine, Ski-Doo, Ogio, Fly, SOS, and BCA. The most popular backpack for the past 3 season has hands down been the Ogio Three6. The SOS being a distant 2nd.
The older generation like to have everything protected and sealed up - they go to the SOS 4 outta 5 times.
The Fly gains popularity because it has the water bladder built in, and I've used it for 3 seasons now before switching to the Ogio for this season.
A remote few pick the Dakine and the BCA, mostly repeat buyers that like what they have, and just want to upgrade to a newer version. Not usually interested in any other packs we have in stock.
The Ogio Three6, well, I heard they had something new coming out. Hope it doesn't deviate too much. The only thing I would change about the Ogio pack is that I want my probe to be in a sleeve on the outside as well......and some padding like the Fly pack to get the pack off the back and keep from sweating because the pack has full contact with the back.
But I love it. Until I get a ABS(My next big(to me) purchase) it will have to do.
The problem with the ABS(and it's the same as everyone else's problem) Guys just wanna spend 800-1200 bones on insurance because they figure a shovel, probe and beacon are enough. There are always better ways to protect ourselves, this is one of them.
A $300 alternative would be great, however I don't see it happening, although it would make sales and more importantly, more people wearing these types of packs.
The problem with bringing them into the store, is that they want we to order more than I am comfortable ordering because I know the mentality of the town and I'll be sitting on 3/4 of my first order until one of these are used in a life saving event, which none of us want to happen in the first place. I'm going to have to buy one at another store instead of bringing them into the store I work at. It's hard enough getting guys to buy beacons let alone an ABS.
