Volcom Iguchi Slack Vest / Backpack
Overview
For the guides, the pathfinders and the true mountain goaters, the Iguchi Slack Vest has been designed and approved by mountain legend Bryan Iguchi to enhance touring and overall riding experience. Constructed to replace the bulk of a backpack, this vest is a more compact, comfortable and versatile alternative. Volcom has strategically placed pockets for beacon, shovel, probe and all other backcountry essentials needed throughout daily exploration. Featuring a V-Science Oxford outer with nylon intended to help lower skidding, lined with breathable mesh and YKK® AquaGuard® Zippers, this vest will not only carry your gear, but will also help keep you dry and act as an extra layer of protection against the ever-changing elements.
- Bryan Iguchi
- Rugged V-Science No-Skid Nylon Stretch Oxford
- V-Science Rugged Polyester Mesh
- Zippered Chest Pocket
- Guide Proven Radio Chest Pocket
- Shovel Handle Pocket
- Drop Tail Fit
- Whistle Zipper Pull
- YKK® AquaGuard® Water Repellent Zipper
- Adjustable Side Panels
- Probe Sleeve
- Exterior Shovel Blade Holder
- External Snowboard/Ski Straps
- Foam Padding at Shoulders and Back
- Detachable Backpack Lid
- Bungee Pull Holder
- Internal Guch Peace Stone Screen Print
Features
YKK® AquaGuard® Water Repellent Zipper - A smooth, durable, water repellent zipper that enhances the function and performance of your high quality garment.
Reviews
This vest is great for slope missions, snow shoe hikes/bootpacks with the board carry, but needs some tweaking to be a true splitboarding backpack replacement. The board carry works great if you strap your board high enough. My shovel and probe fit great, and if you decide to use this to carry your beacon too, there is a pocket large enough with easy access, but you'd have to take the vest fully off to access other avy gear, so that might not be the best place for the beacon. When wearing it loaded with gear, everything feels tight and close to the body, and I can even ride lifts comfortably while wearing it.
re: splitboarding: WHERE IS THE DESIGNATED POLE CARRY? C'mon Volcom and Bryan, if this is marketed towards backcountry snowboarders, give us something to strap our poles to for the downhill. Also many of the pockets on the front seem to be too small to be useful other than for chapstick (I'd love a pocket to put my phone). It loses some functionality between being a vest and a backpack, such as adjustability of backpack straps. Also would love a hanging loop so I can easily hang it on the rack without a hanger. Would also be a good idea to add a whistle to the buckle.
I plan on using this as a resort pack for carrying avy gear and for half-day splitboarding trips, and I think it will work great once I dial all the systems (finding a more compatible jacket, jerryrigging a solid pole carry) , but don't expect it to be fully featured on your first use.
3.5 stars for being a solid option in an underdeveloped market and 1.5 off for missing out on some easy design wins, especially since this is the third or fourth version of the vestpack. There aren't many reviews of this vest online, so I figured I'd add my initial impressions, I've only used it 2-3 times so far.