Diagonal ski carry attaches your skis across the back of the pack at an angle, with the tail in one corner and the tip in the opposite corner. It's a simpler system with fewer straps and attachment points than A-frame carry, making it quick and easy to load and unload.
This style is most common on smaller packs and works well for shorter approaches—think sidecountry laps at a resort or quick boot packs where you're not hiking for hours. If you prefer a minimalist setup without extra straps and loops, diagonal carry keeps things clean and simple.
The trade-off is balance. Since both skis sit along one diagonal line, the weight isn't distributed as evenly as A-frame carry, which splits the load on both sides. For longer tours or technical terrain, that can feel less stable. Also, double-check that your skis fit—wider powder skis may not work well with some diagonal attachment systems.