Australian gear maker Whippa reckons its Skimo Ultralight Mountaineering pack is the best thing it has ever built. That's a bold line from a brand already known for packs that are light, tough and made in the Blue Mountains west of Sydney — and after a proper test, Wild Magazine's reviewer isn't arguing.
The Skimo comes in 45L and 55L sizes. The maths is a bit of a no-brainer: the smaller version weighs 1,045g while the 55L is just 30g heavier at a claimed 1,075g (1,085g on the reviewer's scales). Add the optional expedition lid — 100g and an extra 8L — and you've suddenly got a pack that can handle overnight trips and keeps gear sorted, for barely a weight penalty.
Construction follows the Whippa formula from its other packs: an abrasion-resistant Ultra 800X UHMWPE base, a 200X main body, a roll-top closure for dialling in volume, and tape-sealed seams for genuine weather protection. Simple, stripped-back, and built to take a beating.
Where the Skimo earns its keep is the winter-specific kit. The front pocket swallowed the tester's full avalanche setup — shovel, probe, skins and ski crampons — without complaint. Metal G-hooks on the side compression straps make it quick to rig skis in A-frame carry, even with gloves on. There are dual ice-axe holders, a right-hand hip-belt pocket, a left gear loop, and accessory loops for an optional helmet net so you can stow your lid on the boot up.
In use, it carries well with a serious load, keeping weight close to the body for balance. The roll-top really shines on tours, when you're constantly shedding layers on the climb and piling them back on for the descent. Best of all, the back panel unzips in an oyster-shell opening that exposes the whole main compartment — a rare and genuinely useful feature on a winter pack, and both that zip and the avy-pocket zip are water-resistant.
The verdict? The reviewer finds it hard to dispute Whippa's claim. The Skimo does everything Whippa's other packs do for walking and general outdoors use, with the added bonus of being properly dialed for ski touring and mountaineering. Specs: Ultra 200X body, Ultra 800X base, 400X front pocket and mud guards, tested weight 1,085g, RRP AU$669. Full details at whippa.com.au.
For anyone heading into the backcountry this winter — Australian snow season or further afield in New Zealand, Japan or the Alps — a 1kg-class pack that handles skis, avy gear and a multi-day load is worth a hard look. It's especially appealing if you want one pack that pulls double duty: ski missions in winter, overnight walking trips the rest of the year. And for travellers who like their gear with a story, it's sewn in the Blue Mountains, not a factory on the other side of the world.
