Have you ever been so frustrated with a piece of gear that you were ready to toss it out the nearest window? This desperation is what led me to throw down my credit card and purchase the Cilao 44, the most expensive ski backpack I have ever bought.

Cilao is French made, and although I admire all things French, I don’t usually purchase them. This pack, however, is a gem. It has quite a few features.

#1 It has different sizing options, small, medium and large. While this should be an obvious feature, not many ski backpacks offer it.

#2 It doesn’t have the regular top lid that many packs do. This top lid can often interfere with a person’s ability to look up when climbing steep terrain, as it hits your helmut and restricts head movement. Instead, the Cilao has moved that pouch to the outside of the pack. This allows the top part of the pack to roll down and attach out of the way.

#3 Compartments in all the right places. One is on the outside, large enough for many things you may want easy access to, and doesn’t require unbuckling any straps. A second one, the main inside compartment, offers a small zippered pocket and a camelback type pouch. The main compartment also has a size zipper one on side, allowing for easier reach into the bottom of the pack.

#4 A wide mouth opening to the main compartment. This is something I have always wanted, and is an awesome feature.

#5 Easy opening slots so you can place your water hose on either your left or right side.

#6 Two optional small pouches that attach to the waist belt. Perfect for a camera, sunscreen, and energy bars.

#7 Easy access external loops for attaching skis to the pack diagonally, in either direction.

#8 Easy to use ice axe loops that allow for access without having to take your pack off!

#9 Ergonomic double straps, separated by an open space. This allows for more movement of the shoulder and distributes the load more evenly.

#10 Gear loops lower down on the shoulder straps. Ideal for when the going gets serious.

#11 Optional straps to purchase for attaching snowshoes, snowboard, or other gear.

What would I change about this pack? Ideally, the chest strap would have more adjustment, as far as moving it up or down. In addition, I would add one more ski loop strap at the top of the pack, allowing for vertical placement of the skis.

The Cilao iZi 44 is a lightweight, durable, 44-liter pack ideal for day hikes, or for several day hikes. Whether you are ski touring, mountaineering, or just hiking, it is quite versatile. Does it live it up to the purchase price? Yes. If you are a looking for a great recreational pack, look no further than the Cilao.

There are distributors in Europe and Canada, but I am not aware of distributors in the United States. You may need to contact Cilao online to ask if orders can be placed directly for US citizens. Tell them I sent you!