New Highmark Avalanche Airbags Announced for 19/20
The 19/20 Highmark line-up will feature two new packs, increasing the size of the line-up to 6 models – the in the company’s history. Highmark’s Facebook page announced the new Highmark Charger X and Guide packs this past week, which MSD dealers have seen already in the 19/20 catalog.
The Highmark Guide is similar to the popular Highmark Pro, but with an additional 10L of storage.
The Guide pack is a 32L avalanche airbag – the largest ever made by Highmark. Says the product development team, “traditionally, we’ve made packs that top out at 22L because that’s what snowmobilers demanded – they wanted minimal, lightweight packs. However, over the past two seasons, there has been a demand, especially from snowmobile guides and instructors that they needed a bigger pack that could handle more safety gear.”
The Guide comes in at 10 additional litres than the popular PRO pack, but otherwise looks remarkably similar. Like the PRO, the Guide features the Protection Airbag System (P.A.S.), a large main stow compartment and goggle pocket.
The Charger X is a version of the tek-vest-style Charger Vest – an avalanche airbag that incorporates a protective foam chest designed for big mountain jumpers. However, unlike the Charger, the new X features a full front diagonal zipper to allow riders to take the pack on and off without removing their helmets. Says Pro Rider Logan Thibideau, “The new mods to this vest are killer. Big improvement over the previous model .” Unlike the original Charger (which is still being produced for 19/20), the Charger X only comes in one size.
The new Highmark Charger X Avalanche Airbag Vest features a full front diagonal zip.
“Our Social Media is extremely active and we pay close attention to the feedback from our team each year – if people are complaining or loving certain features, we know about it.”
“We have a great dialogue with our athletes and users,” says Highmark Sponsorship Manager Jessica Joy. “Our Social Media is extremely active and we pay close attention to the feedback from our team each year – if people are complaining or loving certain features, we know about it.”
Highmark’s Research and Development is a key part of its success. Highmark uses direct feedback from its athletes to develop their new products. Says Joy, “It takes longer than you’d think to make changes to a pack – usually about two years, but we take everything our team takes as gospel. If they suggest an improvement, it’s 100% on the table for the next model of Highmark pack.”
The new airbags will be on the shelves in October 2019. The retail price of the Charger is $949 CAD / $849.USD and the Guide is $1199 CAD / $949 USD. Refillable Cylinders are sold separately or $240 CAD / $200 USD.
Full details of the packs can be viewed at www.HighmarkAirbags.com
