Backpacks
Product 2026
Woman, Man
From the moment we unpacked it, we were struck by how light the Blue Ice Stache 38 is. At just 670 g for a 38-liter capacity, the pack immediately makes its intentions clear: to offer an extremely lightweight setup while retaining the essential features required for mountaineering. We tested it exclusively for this type of use and, from the very first outings, we were convinced by the consistency of its design.
Once on our back, the Blue Ice Stache 38’s low weight remains one of its main strengths. Despite its minimal weight, the pack provided effective support and remained stable on technical terrain. The wide, padded hip belt contributes to overall comfort and provides good stability when the pack is loaded. Its compact, close-to-the-body profile is particularly comfortable on rocky or technical sections.
We were also impressed by the pack’s organization. It features dedicated storage for a shovel and probe, a practical setup for winter outings and ski touring, as well as a ski-carry system. The two ice axe attachments are easily accessible, and the various attachment points allow you to carry the necessary gear without having multiple straps and items dangling around the pack.
For users already familiar with the brand, the Blue Ice Stache 38 is particularly intuitive to use. It features the same attachment systems found on other Blue Ice models, especially for ice axes, the helmet and the side compression straps. This consistency makes quick adjustments and handling easier, even while wearing gloves — a significant advantage in cold conditions, when every movement needs to remain simple and efficient.
The side opening is one of the features we appreciated most. It provides direct access to part of the pack’s contents without having to fully open it. When the rope is stored inside, this system really comes into its own: you can retrieve equipment without having to take the rope out or empty the pack. In the field, this detail saves valuable time and makes it easier to access gear during a climb.
The reinforced front pocket is another well-designed feature of the Blue Ice Stache 38. We used it to store crampons, but also approach poles, ice screws and various sharp or dirty items. Keeping this equipment separate prevents it from getting mixed in with the rest of the gear. It provides an easily accessible dedicated area while also protecting the main compartment.
The removable back panel allows you to save a few additional grams when taken out. In our experience, however, the weight saving felt limited compared with the comfort and support provided by the panel. We therefore chose to keep it in place, particularly when carrying a heavier load: the Blue Ice Stache 38 is already light enough that we did not feel the need to save those extra few grams.
This focus on low weight does come with some compromises, however. The internal organization is minimalist, with only a few compartments. This did not particularly bother us for alpine use, but it does require you to organize your gear carefully. The main area we identified for improvement concerns hydration. We would have liked to see a mesh pocket integrated directly into one of the shoulder straps, providing a convenient place for a soft flask or small water bottle and allowing easy access while moving, without having to take the pack off.
After these first outings, our overall impression is positive. The Blue Ice Stache 38 manages to offer an extremely lightweight 38-liter capacity without sacrificing the features expected from a mountaineering pack. Comfort, stability, the side access, reinforced front pocket, dedicated shovel-and-probe storage, and the straightforward attachment systems are among its key strengths. Handling remains intuitive, even while wearing gloves, which is a definite advantage for winter activities. First Test Award – 4outside.
We are looking forward to continuing our testing in winter conditions, particularly on ice climbs and ski tours — two activities for which its design, ease of use and remarkably low weight should prove to be real assets.
We used this equipment over a long period of time
These are our thoughts after intensive use:
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