Arc'teryx Micon 16

The Arc'teryx Micon 16 weighs 730 grams and holds 16 liters, with a streamlined design that uses N210r HT nylon and N400r-AC² ripstop for weather resistance. Designed for backcountry snowboarding and skiing, this features a dedicated avalanche tool pocket that I repurpose for water bladder storage. It has a panel-loading main compartment with rolltop closure, and external attachments for vertical snowboard carry or A-frame/diagonal ski carry. Taped seams and DWR treatment provide moisture protection during full days on the mountain. At the resort or in the backcountry, the compact 16L capacity carries shells, goggles, action cameras, and small tripods without excess bulk that interferes with riding. Previously sold as the Rush SK 16 Backpack.The Micon 16 fills the gap between ultralight summit packs and the larger Micon 32 I use as my primary backcountry pack.

Arc'teryx Micon 16 Material and Construction

N210r HT nylon pack cloth provides high-tenacity durability at low weight for the main body. This material withstands abrasion from snowboard edges and tree branches, as well as repeated compressions, without showing wear after multiple seasons.N400r-AC² ripstop nylon 6 waterproof fabric reinforces areas exposed to snow and moisture, particularly the bottom panel and side panels that contact snow when the pack sits on the ground. Taped seams at critical junctions add water resistance beyond the fabric's inherent water resistance. Combined with DWR treatment, the construction delivers reliable weather protection without requiring a separate pack cover.

Avalanche Tool Pocket Repurposed

The dedicated avalanche tool pocket runs vertically along the pack's exterior with a quick-access zipper. Arc'teryx designed this for probe and shovel storage during backcountry tours, but I use mine exclusively for water bladder access at the resort. The pocket's size and orientation perfectly accommodate a 2-liter bladder, and the vertical zipper allows refilling without removing the pack.The pocket's insulated position against the pack's back panel prevents freezing during cold chairlift rides, unlike external bottle pockets, which expose water to the wind.

Main Compartment Organization

Panel-loading design with h wide opening provides full visibility into the main compartment without digging from the top. The large zipper runs in a U-shape around three sides, allowing the front panel to lie flat for easy packing and gear access.Rolltop closure at the top adds capacity flexibility, allowing compression when the pack rides light or expansion when carrying extra layers. Internal organization includes a mesh lid pocket for goggles, sunglasses, or small items. The pocket accommodates bulky items like the Powderface Case for goggle protection or the Mantis 2, which always travels with me.

External Carry Systems

Vertical snowboard carry uses compression straps that secure the board tightly against the pack's back panel with quick-release buckles for one-handed operation with gloves. A-frame ski carry positions skis in an inverted V using dedicated loops and compression straps. Diagonal ski carry runs a single ski diagonally across the pack for spring tours or asymmetric setups.Helmet carry uses an external mesh pocket that stretches to accommodate a range of helmet sizes. I never use this feature, preferring to wear my helmet or stow it in the main compartment.

How the Micon 16 Works for Travel

As a secondary carry-onon regional jets, the Micon 16 slides under seats where my Granville 16 might not fit. The weather-resistant construction protects electronics from spills. Inside, my Index Gear Organizer keeps cables separated from clothing, while the Mantis 1 organizes charging adapters and battery banks.

Resort Snowboarding with the Micon 16

Resort snowboarding dominates my use of the Micon 16. The compact size doesn't interfere with chairlift seats or bar operation. The 16L capacity holds my shell, spare goggles, action camera, and small tripod, and the water bladder that keeps me hydrated between runs.I cut off the hip straps early in ownership because they served no purpose in my current use cases. The pack rides stable on my back with only shoulder straps, and the lightweight load at 730 grams, plus minimal gear, doesn't create bounce during aggressive riding.The Arc'teryx Micon 16 delivers focused functionality for resort snowboarding and doubles as a capable travel pack when compact capacity and weather resistance matter more than laptop compartments or urban organization.Check pricing and availability at Arc'teryx or compare features against competitors at REI.