Ortovox Free Rider 28 Black Raven

ORTOVOX FREE RIDER 28

The ORTOVOX FREE RIDER 28 is a technical backpack for freeriders who need their equipment to stay secure on demanding descents. Its CLASP BACK SYSTEM and elastic CLASP FLEX BELT keep the pack close to your body, helping it stay stable when skiing aggressively. With 28 litres of storage, a dedicated avalanche equipment compartment and attachment options for skis, a snowboard, rope and two ice axes, it is ready for everything from lift-accessed freeride laps to days in the backcountry.

The main compartment opens through the back panel, giving you a clear view of your gear when the backpack is laid face down in the snow. A roll-top closure provides an additional top entrance and allows you to expand the pack by approximately 10 litres. When you are carrying less, the roll-top buckles can be attached to the side compression straps to keep the load compact. Inside, there is a compartment for a hydration reservoir with a drinking tube outlet, as well as an integrated radio pocket accessible via a perimeter zipper.

A separate avalanche compartment keeps the shovel handle and probe organised and away from the rest of your equipment. It also includes a small pocket for the Emergency Card and a compartment for a lightweight ice axe. For equipment that is wet, dirty or simply better kept separate, there is a large side pocket with space for climbing skins, crampons, a thermos or a short rope. The opposite side has a smaller pocket for everyday essentials, while an elastic shoulder strap pocket provides quick access to a phone or sunglasses and includes an emergency whistle. A stowable helmet net offers two attachment positions.

The CLASP BACK SYSTEM uses six padded zones that remain flexible in cold conditions and follow the shape of your back. Wide shoulder straps, an adjustable chest strap and the elastic CLASP FLEX BELT help distribute the load and keep the backpack firmly in place. Additional adjustment points at the shoulders pull the upper part of the pack closer to your body, while the lower section can be tightened using loops on the hip belt. Softshell material across the back contact area and straps improves grip and helps prevent snow from sticking. The result is a close, flexible fit without unnecessary straps hanging around to catch on trees.

The backpack is made from 100% recycled 400D polyamide Ripstop without PFCs. The material has a stated water column of 1,500 mm, and the light-coloured interior makes it easier to find equipment in low light. The pack is compatible with the separately available CLASP Spine Protector, which fits into a dedicated compartment. Skis can be carried using the A-Skifix or D-Skifix systems, while additional attachment options cover a snowboard, snowshoes, two ice axes, rope, poles and a helmet. The regular back length is designed for a back measurement of 42–50 cm, approximately corresponding to a body height of 170–195 cm.

Tech Specs

• Volume: 28 L, expandable by approximately 10 L via the roll-top

• Weight: 1.15 kg

• Dimensions: 30 × 56 × 19 cm

• Material: 100% recycled 400D polyamide Ripstop

• Water Resistance: Water-resistant material, stated water column 1,500 mm

• PFCs: PFC-free

• Back System: CLASP BACK SYSTEM, six padded zones

• Hip Belt: Elastic CLASP FLEX BELT with lower pack adjustment

• Back Length: 42–50 cm

• Fit: Regular, unisex; approximately 170–195 cm body height

• Main Compartment Access: Back panel and roll-top opening

• Avalanche Equipment Compartment: Separate compartment for shovel handle and probe

• Hydration System Compatibility: Yes

• Radio Pocket: Integrated

• Ski Attachment: A-Skifix and D-Skifix

• Maximum Ski Width for Attachment: 150 mm

• Other Equipment Attachment: Snowboard, snowshoes, two ice axes, rope, poles and helmet

• Helmet Attachment: Stowable net with two attachment positions

• Side Pockets: Two

• Shoulder Strap Pocket: Elastic pocket with emergency whistle

• Compression Straps: Yes

• Key Clip: Yes

• Emergency Card: Included

• Back Protector Compatibility: CLASP Spine Protector, sold separately

• Integrated Back Protector: No

• RECCO Rescue System: No