Black Diamond Blitz 28 L Backpack Review

Let’s Dive into Black Diamond Blitz 28 L Backpack

The Black Diamond Blitz 28 L Backpack is Black Diamond’s offering for alpinists and fast-and-light adventurers seeking a minimalist, yet highly functional summit pack. Its stripped-down design, combined with durable materials, makes it an appealing choice for those pushing their limits in the mountains. After years of relying on heavier packs for both guiding and personal climbing trips, I was searching for something truly lightweight and streamlined that wouldn’t compromise on essential features.

My quest was fueled by the need for a pack that could be easily stowed within a larger approach pack, then deployed for summit pushes or single-day alpine climbs. The Black Diamond Blitz 28 L Backpack appeared to perfectly fit the bill, promising a blend of durability and minimal weight.

Unboxing the Blitz 28, I was immediately struck by its simplicity and the surprisingly robust feel of the Dynex ripstop fabric. It felt incredibly light in hand, yet the material gave off an aura of resistance to abrasion. The single-pull top closure seemed intuitive, and the overall design conveyed a sense of purposefulness, every element trimmed down to its core function.

Compared to my Arc’teryx Alpha FL 30 (known for its weather resistance) and my Mammut Trion Nordwand 35 (a more feature-rich alpine pack), the Blitz 28 was noticeably more minimalist. I chose the Blitz 28 over these others because I wanted something specifically for fast ascents, where every ounce counts more than extensive features or bombproof weather protection. My initial excitement was high; this felt like exactly what I needed for demanding alpine objectives.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Black Diamond Blitz 28 L Backpack to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial field test involved a scramble up a local peak in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, known for its unpredictable weather. I loaded it with a lightweight shell, first-aid kit, snacks, water, and a small rack of climbing gear. The Blitz 28 performed admirably during this climb, carrying the load comfortably and staying snug against my back even during exposed sections.

The pack endured light rain and held up surprisingly well, though it’s not fully waterproof. The one-handed top closure proved convenient for quickly accessing gear, even while wearing gloves. I encountered no issues after the first use and found the pack extremely comfortable and easy to use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a full season of use, which included everything from multi-pitch climbs in the Adirondacks to ski mountaineering in Colorado, the Black Diamond Blitz 28 L Backpack has held up remarkably well. The Dynex fabric shows minimal signs of wear, despite being dragged across granite and scraped against ice. Cleaning is easy; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient.

Compared to my previous summit packs, the Blitz 28 shines in its lightweight and simplicity, making it a go-to for fast-and-light missions. It has become an indispensable part of my climbing kit, consistently delivering reliable performance in demanding environments.

Breaking Down the Features of Black Diamond Blitz 28 L Backpack

Specifications

The Black Diamond Blitz 28 L Backpack boasts the following key specifications:

• Manufacturer: Black Diamond
• Gender: Unisex
• Color: Alloy
• Pack Loading: Top
• Construction: Ultralight Dynex construction, providing a high strength-to-weight ratio. Dynex is known for its exceptional tear resistance, crucial in alpine environments.
• Closure: One-handed top closure, simplifying access to the main compartment, especially with gloves on. This allows for quick adjustments and efficient gear retrieval.
• Pockets: Easily accessible, waterproof zip pocket on lid and internal zippered pocket. These pockets offer secure storage for essentials like keys, wallets, or small electronic devices.
• Strippability: Strippable design, allowing removal of the waistbelt and bivy pad for further weight savings. This customization caters to specific needs and trip requirements.
• Attachment Points: Rope strap and ice tool Pick Pockets. These external attachment points enhance versatility for carrying specialized climbing gear.
• Hydration: Hydration compatibility. This accommodates a hydration reservoir for convenient water access.
• Removable Bivy Pad: This feature provides extra comfort and support.

These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the pack’s performance, weight, and versatility in demanding alpine environments. The lightweight construction, coupled with essential features like the rope strap and ice tool pockets, make the Blitz 28 an ideal choice for climbers prioritizing speed and efficiency.

Performance & Functionality

The Black Diamond Blitz 28 L Backpack excels in its primary role: efficiently carrying essential gear for fast-paced alpine ascents. Its streamlined design minimizes bulk and maximizes freedom of movement, a critical factor when navigating technical terrain. While not fully waterproof, the durable Dynex fabric provides adequate protection against light rain and snow.

The single-pull top closure is a standout feature, allowing for swift access to the main compartment even with gloved hands. The pack’s lightweight construction is both a strength and a potential weakness, as it might not be suitable for exceptionally heavy loads. Overall, the Blitz 28 meets and exceeds expectations for a minimalist summit pack.

Design & Ergonomics

The Black Diamond Blitz 28 L Backpack is designed with a focus on simplicity and functionality. The Dynex fabric is remarkably lightweight yet surprisingly durable, giving the pack a robust feel despite its minimal weight. The slim profile hugs the body closely, enhancing stability and reducing sway during dynamic movements.

There is a minimal learning curve; its intuitive design makes it easy to use even for those new to minimalist packs. The one-handed closure system and accessible pockets further enhance usability.

Durability & Maintenance

The Black Diamond Blitz 28 L Backpack is constructed with durability in mind, utilizing high-quality Dynex ripstop fabric. The fabric is abrasion-resistant and can withstand the rigors of alpine climbing. Minimal maintenance is required; occasional cleaning with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep the pack in good condition.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Black Diamond Blitz 28 L Backpack does not come with extensive accessories, staying true to its minimalist design. The key customization option is the removable waistbelt and bivy pad, allowing users to further reduce weight if desired. While not designed specifically for compatibility with accessories from other brands, its standard attachment points (rope strap, ice tool Pick Pockets) generally accommodate a wide range of third-party accessories.

Pros and Cons of Black Diamond Blitz 28 L Backpack