Let’s Dive into Black Diamond Speed 22 Backpack
The Black Diamond Speed 22 Backpack is a lightweight, versatile alpine pack designed for climbers and mountaineers who demand performance and durability. Crafted by Black Diamond, it’s proven its mettle on challenging routes worldwide. Its focus on efficient gear hauling and streamlined design makes it a favorite among those pushing their limits in demanding environments.
I was seeking a pack that was lightweight enough for fast alpine ascents but also durable enough to withstand the rigors of rock, ice, and snow. My aging pack lacked critical features like secure ice tool carry and a strippable design. The Black Diamond Speed 22 Backpack appeared to be the ideal solution, promising a blend of lightweight design and mountain-ready toughness.
Unboxing the Speed 22, I was immediately impressed by its minimalist design and the quality of the materials. The BD X-rip 210d Nylon fabric felt significantly more robust than the flimsy nylon used in some ultralight packs. The stitching was clean and reinforced in key areas, suggesting a high level of build quality.
Compared to the Arc’teryx Alpha FL 30 and the Mammut Trion Nordwand 20, the Black Diamond Speed 22 Backpack stood out due to its balance of features and weight. While the Alpha FL 30 is lighter and more weather-resistant, it lacks external attachment points. The Trion Nordwand 20 is more specialized for ice climbing, which I needed as part of my range of climbing.
My first impression was excitement mixed with a touch of skepticism. The pack looked fantastic, but I needed to see how it performed on the mountain.
Real-World Testing: Putting Black Diamond Speed 22 Backpack to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Black Diamond Speed 22 Backpack on a late-season alpine climb of Mount Washington’s Huntington Ravine in New Hampshire. The climb involved a mix of steep snow, moderate ice, and exposed rock. The weather shifted rapidly from sunshine to sleet, providing a good test of the pack’s weather resistance and overall performance.
The Speed 22 performed admirably in the mixed conditions. The streamlined design kept the pack close to my body, minimizing swing and improving balance on tricky sections. The ice tool PickPockets held my tools securely, even when swinging aggressively on steeper ice.
The pack was intuitive to use, even with gloves on. The top-loading design allowed easy access to my gear, and the drawcord skirt closure kept out spindrift. After a long day of climbing, I appreciated the comfortable shoulder straps and back panel, which provided good support without feeling bulky.
My initial concern was whether the 22-liter capacity would be sufficient. However, with careful packing, I was able to carry everything I needed for a day of alpine climbing, including extra layers, food, water, and safety gear.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Black Diamond Speed 22 Backpack has proven to be a reliable and durable companion. I’ve used it for everything from day hikes to multi-pitch rock climbs. It has held up well to abrasion against rock and ice.
Despite being subjected to rough treatment, the pack shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The BD X-rip 210d Nylon fabric has resisted tears and punctures. The reinforced stitching remains intact.
Cleaning the pack is simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. I’ve occasionally used a mild detergent to clean stubborn stains.
Compared to my previous packs, the Speed 22 offers a superior combination of lightweight design, durability, and functional features. It has become my go-to pack for any activity where weight and performance are paramount.
Breaking Down the Features of Black Diamond Speed 22 Backpack
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Black Diamond
- Gender: Unisex
- Weight: 1.19 lb (540 g)
- Pack Application: Climbing
- Capacity: 22 liters (1343 cu in)
- Pack Volume: 1000 – 1999 cubic in
- Color: Graphite
- Hydration Compatible: Yes – Bladder Not Included
- Fabric/Material: 210d ripstop main, 420d abrasion
- Body Material: 210D Nylon
- Pack Loading: Top
- Pack Type: Alpine
These specifications are critical for alpine climbing because they balance weight, durability, and functionality. A lighter pack reduces fatigue, while durable materials withstand harsh mountain environments.
Performance & Functionality
The Black Diamond Speed 22 Backpack excels at carrying climbing gear comfortably and efficiently. The ice tool PickPockets securely hold ice axes. The crampon straps keep them firmly in place.
Its strength lies in its simplicity and durability. Its weakness is its limited capacity for larger expeditions. It meets expectations for a lightweight alpine pack but might be too small for multi-day trips.
Design & Ergonomics
The Speed 22 is constructed from durable materials. The BD X-rip 210d Nylon fabric feels robust. The pack is lightweight, contributing to comfort during long days of climbing.
The design is user-friendly. The top-loading access is simple, even with gloves. There is a slight learning curve to optimize packing, but overall, it is intuitive.
Durability & Maintenance
The Black Diamond Speed 22 Backpack is built to last. The reinforced stitching and durable fabrics ensure longevity. With proper care, it should withstand years of abuse.
Maintenance is easy. Wiping it down and occasional cleaning are sufficient. It’s a pack designed to endure harsh conditions without requiring excessive upkeep.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Speed 22 comes with a removable lid and hipbelt, allowing you to strip it down for minimalist ascents. The pack is hydration compatible, accommodating most standard hydration reservoirs.
While there are limited direct customization options, the pack is compatible with standard aftermarket accessories like ice axe leashes and helmet carriers. The Black Diamond website offers a range of compatible accessories.
Pros and Cons of Black Diamond Speed 22 Backpack
Pros
- Lightweight and streamlined design: Minimizes swing and improves balance on technical terrain.
- Durable BD X-rip 210d Nylon fabric: Resists tears and abrasions in harsh mountain environments.
- Secure ice tool PickPockets: Keeps ice axes firmly in place, even when swinging aggressively.
- Strippable design: Removable lid, hipbelt, and framesheet allow for weight reduction on minimalist ascents.
- Comfortable shoulder straps and back panel: Provide good support and ventilation for long days of climbing.
Cons
- Limited capacity: 22 liters may be insufficient for overnight trips or climbs requiring a lot of gear.
- Basic features: Lacks some of the bells and whistles found on more expensive packs, such as external pockets or gear loops.
Who Should Buy Black Diamond Speed 22 Backpack?
- Perfect for: Alpine climbers, mountaineers, ski mountaineers, and fast-and-light hikers who prioritize weight savings and durability. This pack is ideal for day trips and minimalist ascents where efficiency and mobility are paramount.
- Who should skip this product? Those needing larger capacity for multi-day trips or carrying bulky gear.
- Must-have accessories or modifications? A lightweight hydration reservoir, ice axe leashes, and a helmet carrier are recommended for maximizing the pack’s functionality.
Conclusion on Black Diamond Speed 22 Backpack
The Black Diamond Speed 22 Backpack is a well-designed, durable, and functional pack that excels in alpine environments. It strikes a perfect balance between lightweight design and mountain-ready toughness, making it an excellent choice for climbers and mountaineers seeking a reliable and efficient companion.
The price of $145.99 is justified by the pack’s quality, durability, and performance. It’s an investment that will pay off in comfort, efficiency, and peace of mind on demanding climbs.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Black Diamond Speed 22 Backpack to anyone seeking a lightweight and durable alpine pack. If you’re looking for a pack that can handle the rigors of mountain climbing without weighing you down, look no further. Get yours today and conquer your next summit!