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Kitvore.com

Specs that matter. Gear that fits.

Ski Backpack · Snowboard Carry · Vertical Carry

What does vertical snowboard carry mean, and is it a good option for hiking with my board?

Vertical carry is the most common way to attach a snowboard to a backpack—your board runs straight up and down on the back of the pack, held in place by straps that wrap around it. It's simple, secure, and keeps your board tight against your back while you hike.

The main thing to watch for is board length. With longer boards, vertical carry can feel top-heavy and pull you backward, especially on steep skin tracks or technical terrain. If you ride a longer board, test the loaded pack to see if the balance works for you.

For most snowboarders, vertical carry is the way to go. It's widely available, easy to load and unload, and works great for everything from short sidecountry laps to full backcountry tours. Just double-check that the pack actually has a snowboard carry system—many ski-specific packs skip it entirely.