Best Use: Mountaineeiring

The Challenger 28 is La Sportiva’s answer to the increasingly demanding needs of the modern alpinist. Adaptable for ski mountaineering, alpine climbing, and long multi-pitch routes, its key feature is cross-functionality.

Modularity, durability, and lightness are its three core elements, starting with the main material, which comes from the world of sailing—specifically, kite surfing. The Challenge Sailcloth Ultra is the perfect solution to the growing demand for highly durable yet lightweight materials. This fabric offers unprecedented tear resistance, making it highly reliable even in the harshest conditions while standing up to rock, ice, and snow over time.

Its construction features a tubular sack design with a top-access roll-top closure, allowing the backpack to expand or compress depending on usage, quickly shifting from 28L to 32L capacity. The roll-top can be closed from above or compressed using the removable side straps when not needed. The main compartment is divided into two sections by an additional drawstring closure, ensuring a precise separation of storage areas for better organization. Both compartments are also accessible from the side via a water-repellent YKK zipper.

Modularity is enhanced by fully removable or adjustable accessories, depending on the intended use. The front daisy chain allows for helmet attachment and securing an elastic cord, useful for quickly storing a clothing layer externally. The side straps help compress the bag when not fully loaded and can also be used in winter to carry skis in an A-Style configuration (Ski Strap included). Alternatively, skis can be carried diagonally using the expandable lower straps. The ice axe holders are fully removable and can also be used to carry trekking poles if needed. The top strap serves to compress the roll-top and secure a rope for transport.

The back panel features a thermoformed design with a removable internal rigid panel, useful for additional support when carrying heavier loads. The shoulder straps are minimal yet fully adjustable at both the sternum and in length, with a load adjustment system to help distribute weight effectively. The waist belt features a Double-D closure, with adjustable and removable hip pads that include a small pocket and a gear loop.