great pack
Just got this pack in. I am really impressed and surprised that it has not gotten more press and reviews. The quality is great and as I start setting it up for my trip I have started noticing more small things that were well thought out. The lower compartment is accessible from the main compartment through a zippered "hatch" the pocket on the waist strap has fleece lining it. The shoulder strap hydration tube pouch is actually large enough to accommodate a right angle at the end. The diagonal ski carry is well thought out as is the A carry side strap system. I don't think this is a good choice for snowboards but for skis it really is a great design. The back panel also has an elastic strap going across it on the inside to stabilize the hydration bladder. I have been very impressed with Marmots quality over the years and their customer service is fantastic. I have just ordered a camelbak antidote bladder with the insulated hose to try in this. Of not, I can fit crampons and skins in the under pocket, and the avy gear pocket on the front is HUGE. Highly recommend, if you are on the fence. Just go ahead and order it, you will be very pleased.

Well designed pack
This pack is very well designed for backcountry winter travel. There is a custom-made place for nearly everything (shovel, probe, wet gear, etc.) and the little details make organization easy. This pack delivers on the features listed in the description so I won't repeat them here. A few nit-picks: This holds a snowboard but it's not custom-built for boards so attaching my board is a little tricky. I haven't noticed a way to hang my hydration pack so it ends up at the bottom of the compartment (of course, I may be missing something). Back panel is a little tricky to open because of the shoulder straps and, once opened, the straps can get in the way; but this is just part of having back-panel access.