A couple years ago I heard the news that Yeti, the famous cooler and drinkware brand, bought out backpack maker Mystery Ranch, and was a bit confused. The synergy didn’t make sense. But that’s because I totally misread what the YETI brand really means.
When it comes down to it, YETI is about durability, rigidity, and reliability in housing your cargo on big missions. The contents are secondary to the hardware that houses them. Now, after trying out their brand-new Skala hiking backpack, it starts to make sense. And once it clicked, I see how genius the move really is.
The Skala backpack is a brilliant design innovation to the backpack world. With the durable materials, large, easy-access zippers, and a support system that takes quite the load off, it has now become a trusted workhorse for our adventure clinics and day trips from basecamp.
There are a few big things that really stand out from this backpack to make it review-worthy, but the main feature is the YETI brand rings throughout the pack with a rugged and durable pack that is ready to get tossed around and taken to some precarious places. This review is for the 40L pack, but they also have 32L, 50L, and even a 60L pack if you’d like to really get out there. Read further for why this backpack is a new favourite of ours, and why we think it will be for you, as well.
YETI Skala Backpack: First Impressions
Bottom Line: Rugged, Durable, Easy Access
Capacity: 40L (Available in other sizes)
Weight: 1.5 kg
Material:
Frame: Aluminum
Material: 195D High-Tenacity Nylon (Double Ripstop)
Hardware: Heavy-duty YKK zippers and Duraflex buckles
Best Use: Mountaineering, Technical Hiking, Professional Field Work
Pros: Easy access to main pocket, excellent smaller pockets on the outside, Adjustable fit
Cons: On the heavier side for a daypack
On first sight, the YETI Skala looks different than other packs, and is maybe one of the best legacies of Mystery Ranch. The Y-shaped front zipper provides a massive opening to the main compartment, and with large loops to pull the zipper open, this can be done in a flash. It’s a remarkably genius idea that falls under “why didn’t anyone think of that sooner?” It’s always a drag having to fumble through a pack for one specific piece of gear. With this backpack, you can lay it on its back and access pretty much the entire compartment on a single glance. I don’t think I’ve tried another pack that has as much full-frontal access as this one does, as a matter of fact.
Pro Tip: If you’re using this in the damp Howe Sound or Squamish climate, the carbonate coating on the 420D nylon is fantastic, but don’t forget to wipe down the YKK Aquaguard zippers with fresh water after a salty day on the coast to keep that ‘RipZip’ action smooth.
The stretchy pockets around the outside are all large enough to stash water bottles, and of course YETI recommends their drinkware… but sure enough their drinkware is rugged and high quality, so even a 40 oz bottle fits in well. On the front there are two stash pockets for a hardshell layer or some slippers for camp, both of which come in handy at the right moment and good to have accessible without needing to dig through the pack.
But perhaps one of the best features of the Skala backpacks is the adjustability to dial in a precise fit. The torso adjustment can move up or down 8-10 inches, which should be plenty for getting the pack to sit exactly where it needs to. The load lifters above the shoulder straps are also adjustable, giving you a ton of customization to make this pack fit more ideal than most.
Who the YETI Skala is For
Bushwackers: The 195D nylon is a thick skin against bramble bushes, sharp twigs, and stinging nettle that we see so much at lower elevation in the sea-to-sky corridor. Having a pack that will last through all of that means a much longer life and fewer holes in the long run.
Hiking Guides: The pack is excellent for people who need quick access without pulling everything out. So for those who want to bring a first aid kit, some lunch items, or need to help a client take a load off, the three-zip design allows for quick access to the main pocket while having enough accessible small pockets for items like sunglasses and sunscreen within easy reach.
People Who Demand Precision: Having a telescoping yoke (back panel) that can extend (as well as move up and down) allows people to get an optimal fit better than most packs. It’s the best carryover from Mystery Ranch (along with the 3-zip design) but with a much cleaner, more modern look.
Who This Backpack Isn’t For
The Ultralight Crowd: at 1.5 Kg, you can definitely find packs out there that will be much lighter. They surely won’t be as durable, but for those who want the lightest of the light, this pack doesn’t fit that category.
Casual Day-Hikers: If a typical hike for you is just a few hours and you don’t need much more than a bottle of water and some insect repellent, this pack will be a bit of overkill. It’s designed for heavier loads and taking some abuse.
Winter-Specific Touring: This pack doesn’t have a dedicated space for safety tools, so it’s not ideal if you are just wanting it for ski touring or splitboarding. There are plenty of packs out there worth getting if that’s your goal, but this pack is better suited to hiking when you’re not in avalanche terrain.
Technical Specs
| Component | Technical Specification | Benefit |
| Primary Shell | Guardcore™ 420D Nylon w/ Carbonate Coating | Superior abrasion resistance against BC “slide alder” and rock; sheds water without needing a rain cover for light precip. |
| High-Wear Zones | 210D Birdseye Dobby w/ UHMWPE Reinforcement | Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene is the same material used in ballistic armor; prevents “blowouts” at corner stress points. |
| Frame System | AlumaLite™ Internal Aluminum Stays | Provides vertical rigidity to transfer 25lb+ loads to the hips without the pack “barreling” against your spine. |
| Suspension | Telescoping Micro-Adjust Yoke (8″ Range) | Dial in the exact torso length to prevent shoulder fatigue during long days. |
| Access System | RipZip™ (3-Zip Configuration) | Based on Mystery Ranch DNA; allows for a full “clamshell” opening to access mid-pack gear instantly. |
| Hardware | YKK® #10 Aquaguard Zippers & Duraflex Buckles | Over-sized pulls allow for operation with gloves. |
| Volume/Weight | 40L / 1.5 kg (3.4 lbs) | Optimized for a “heavy day” or a “minimalist overnight” with pro-level hardware. |
Final Thoughts
The YETI Skala 40L backpack is unlike any other hiking pack out there, thanks to its durable exterior, well placed pockets, precise adjustability, and ease of getting items in and out. The legacy of Mystery Ranch shines through well in this pack, and I now get it why YETI thought it would be good to buy a backpack brand. Adding the durability of the YETI brand to the ingenuity of Mystery Ranch is a match made in heaven.
The pack won’t be for everyone. For those who just want to take a walk in the park, you don’t need all the features. If you’re counting grams and bagging peaks, the 1.5 kg weight might scare you off. But for those who consider themselves “Adventurous” and carry plenty of extras along for the journey, this pack will fit well, last, feel comfortable, and allow for easy access.
The Alpine Islands Scorecard
- Durability: 10/10 (Bombproof materials)
- Accessibility: 10/10 (The 3-Zip is king)
- Comfort/Fit: 9/10 (Highly adjustable yoke)
- Weight: 6/10 (Heavy for a 40L)
- Versatility: 8/10 (Great for everything but pure winter touring)
The Verdict: A rugged, “buy-it-once” workhorse for those who prioritize gear protection and accessibility over ultralight specs.
