Reviewed: Ed's Wilderness Systems Ski Pulk

Written by Drew Pogge    

Most of the ski pulks I've used have left me wishing for ANY other way to get my junk into the bc. They're tough to pull, harnesses are typically uncomfortable and inefficient, and the sleds themselves tip over, slip sideways, and generally behave poorly.

Ed's Wilderness Systems pulk complete Snowclipper sled setup, however, proved not only comfortable and convenient, but invaluable to the success of our Tombstone Mountains expedition (read about the expedition in the December, 2011 issue of Backcountry). The sled is light, but uses optional fold-down aluminum fins to improve sidehill and firm-snow tracking. The zippered cover and compression straps keep loads low and secure, preventing dreaded sled-flop. I also packed the sled full of gear, cinched down the covers and checked it as luggage at the airport--super convenient. And even loaded down with a gallon-and-a-half of white gas and two-weeks worth of food for three guys, it pulled true and relatively easily. Ed's proprietary poles are nearly indestructible, and provide great maneuverability, and the full chest harness accommodated a large pack easily, and gave us the added comfort to lean into the traces like a sled dog when the going got tough (and it was tough a LOT). The only thing that might be improved is a tighter seal at the front of the sled, where the cover and the plastic meet--snow invariably packed inside the nose. Otherwise, it's an excellent product and true value for anyone looking to move heavy loads over long distances. Ed also sells individual parts for those looking to build or improve their own pulk. 

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