New BCA Airbags: Float 22, Float 32, and Float Throttle

[werdswerf]

Looking for more information about BCA's new airbags. So far all I've turned up is a blog post (http://www.backcountryaccess.com/2012/01/21/whirlwind-of-a-week-bcc-salt-lake-or/) on BCA's website, a video demo (http://thelifeunbound.com/2012/01/outdoor-retailer-2012/) of the Float 32, and an SIA press release (http://siasnowshow.snowsports.org/Media/DigitalPressRoom/DigitalPressRoomDetail/DigitalPressID/336/).

Here's what BCA has announced so far:

Three new models: Float 22, Float 32, and Float Throttle.
Airbag/cylinder/compressed air equipment now interchangeable between packs.
Packs and cylinders sold separately, packs available in more colors.


I'm particularly curious about the Float 22. Does it have a separate avy tool compartment? Helmet carry? Hip belt pouch? Is it Camelbak compatible? What's the ski carry system like? etc. If those of you at SIA have a chance to stop by BCA's booth, let us know what you find.

[adrenalated]

I'm particularly curious about the Float 22. Does it have a separate avy tool compartment? Helmet carry? Hip belt pouch? Is it Camelbak compatible? What's the ski carry system like? etc. If those of you at SIA have a chance to stop by BCA's booth, let us know what you find.

-yes
-no
-can't remember
-pretty sure, although I find routing a hydration tube around an airbag to be a pain in the ass on every pack I've looked at.
-diagonal only (no compression straps or A-frame straps at all)

[whyturn]

Float 22 looks clean and perfect for sidecountry missions

[Dolson]

Float 22 does have a separate avy tool compartment, helmet carry, is not hydration compatible, has hip belt pocks, and comes with a diagonal ski carry system.

It also is going to be the lightest and most affordable airbag pack on the market. Only 5.5lbs and only $675 for the whole system. The 22 and 32 are going to be much more packable and the airbag will be interchangeable. I personally have toured with the 22 and its a sick pack that will fit everything i need in a day of touring. It does not have compression straps or an a frame ski mounting system because the a frame would hinder the airbag from deploying properly and compression straps are not needed on this smaller type pack.

The 32 is huge and will be perfect for muli-day hut tripping, patrolling, guiding, and for those that like bringing out their whole arsenal. The 32 is hydration compatible and has all the some features as the 22.

The float Throttle is specifically designed for snowmobilers and is 22 liters. The trigger can be switched between shoulder straps and is hydration compatible.

I think next years Float lineup will be a big improvement over this years.

[nickel]

Bumping this because it's august and it would be nice to maybe get an update/pictures/more details about these packs? Anyone have any (new) beta?

[bushman]

I have a picture. This is what one looks like blowedup in a cat.
http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af275/Deloiakennels/BRC022.jpg

[nickel]

Do you think the new pack is better/worse/the same for ridiculous-snowcat-shenanigans?