UW Design 2013

Sidecountry Shovel Pack

If a snowsport athlete caught in an avalanche survives their fall, the probability that they are rescued alive drops sharply after roughly fifteen minutes under the snow. Every second counts in the race to locate and dig out an avalanche victim.

The Sidecountry Shovel Pack is a minimalist solution for snowsport athletes who access backcountry terrain from a ski resort’s chair lifts. Such individuals don’t necessarily want to carry a large pack, but must be prepared with at least three pieces of avalanche safety equipment: a beacon, probe, and shovel.

Providing instant access to both a probe and shovel without having to take off any gear, the Sidecountry Shovel Pack aids in reducing the amount of time required to locate and uncover an avalanche victim.

Additional Information

Sidecountry Shovel Pack Process Book