Ortovox LiTRIC: Setting New Standards in Safety

Since 1980, Ortovox has been a leader in mountain safety, beginning with the development of the first dual-frequency transceiver. Their dedication to protecting mountaineers and preserving alpine environments has led to continuous innovations in avalanche search and rescue technology. The latest advancement in their lineup is the Avabag LiTRIC, a state-of-the-art avalanche airbag system.

The Avabag LiTRIC is designed to be lightweight, intuitive, reliable, sustainable, and adaptable. One of its standout features is the ability to perform multiple activations—up to seven—on a single 25-minute charge, making it ideal for multi-day backcountry excursions. The system is available in specific touring and freeride models, with small and regular back sizes, and offers a zip-on option that allows users to interchange backpacks to suit their adventure needs. The LitRIC is available in three series: the Tour series, the freeride series and the minimalist series

From the Base to the packs, the items in the Avabag LiTRIC Tour Series are specifically tailored to use on ski tours: lightweight, versatile, very comfortable and with all the important features. The Avabag LiTRIC FREERIDE models are made for going off-piste: With their compact, firm fit and generous freedom of movement, they are ideal for powder sessions. The Avabag LiTRIC Zero Series is the purist in the LiTRIC series: an unbelievable 1,970g for a highly technical airbag backpack with all the essential features. Minimal weight, maximum safety!

To validate the Avabag LiTRIC’s performance, Ortovox Canada General Manager Richard Davies collaborated with the Association of Canadian Mountain Guides (ACMG) to conduct field tests. Several mountain professionals participated and provided feedback:

Mike Adolph, ACMG Technical Director
Model Tested: Ski Tour 40L
Usage: 41 days of heli-skiing and two ski tours; 26 inflations
Feedback: “The trigger is simplistic and easy to pull. I would recommend this bag. It held up to the punishment doled out heli-skiing.”

Jasmin Caton, ACMG Ski Guide
Models Tested: Tour with 30L and 40L zip-on
Usage: 10 days; four inflations
Feedback: “The trigger concept seems good. I like how it is not very finicky to lock and unlock the trigger. I love that it is a relatively lightweight avalanche bag option and that it is rechargeable.”

Tyler Higgins, ACMG Ski Guide
Model Tested: Freeride 28L
Usage: 60 days in a heli-ski setting; one inflation
Feedback: “The trigger was great! The charge was easy to complete and held a charge for seven days. I found the pack very comfortable to wear when loaded. Overall, this was a great pack to use for heli-ski guiding.”

Geoff Osler, ACMG Training & Assessing Program
Model Tested: Ski Tour 30L
Usage: Two ski tours; three inflations
Feedback: “It’s as minimalist as an airbag can be, and I really like it. Out of the airbags I’ve used, this one is the most comfortable to wear and is the most compact. The 30L is a great heli-skiing pack. The 40L would be good for most ski touring days.”

Evan Stevens, ACMG Assistant Technical Director
Models Tested: Ski Tour 30L and 40L zip-on
Usage: 30 days of heli-skiing; two inflations
Feedback: “It is nicely simplified, yet has everything I need. The 30L is barely enough for a ski guiding day. The 40L zip-on was good. The weight, simplicity, adaptability, and easy functionality have meant I recommend it to quite a few folks.”
Introducing the Rescue Avabag LiTRIC

Technical Specifications
Interference: The LiTRIC avalanche airbag system does not interfere with avalanche transceivers and does not need to be switched off during a search.
Air Travel: Flying with the LiTRIC is permitted without the need for transport documents. However, Ortovox advises checking with airlines for country-specific regulations, as transportation is not guaranteed.

The Avabag LiTRIC is an excellent choice for backcountry skiers and snowboarders, offering a comfortable fit suitable for all-day use and multi-day excursions, even during dynamic activities like snowmobiling. Its lightweight design enhances comfort for human-powered adventures and it provides an outstanding balance of features and safety.

Check out your local mountain outdoor shop or visit ortovox.com to maximize your backcountry safety.

By Dan Savage, a backcountry skier, Powder Canada editor, and Fernie Ski Touring executive, resides in Fernie, BC.