La Sportiva Challenger 28
WORDS → Emanuele Castiglione
DATE → 2026-08-31
A new ally for modern alpinism
If it’s true that the mountain has a soul and that every alpinist ultimately desires nothing more than to become a new Ulysses conquering their own summit, it’s equally true that high altitude is no joking matter. According to a well-known Scandinavian saying, there’s no such thing as good or bad weather, only good or bad equipment. What do the Homeric hero and this pragmatic Nordic wisdom have in common? The new pack from La Sportiva, which seems purpose-built to let alpinists think big. The Challenger 28 was designed to support the action on expeditions where—proving the Nordic sages right—gear makes the difference between success and retreat.
This is a technical tool conceived for modern alpinism, long multi-pitch routes, and ski mountaineering: a lightweight, durable, and highly configurable companion that adapts to any need.
La Sportiva has stated that the idea for this pack matured alongside alpinists, guides, and mountain professionals, who certainly knew how to inspire a high-level product. The objective is to answer the specific needs of those who dare challenge the slopes up there, where gravity does its duty more rigorously than on flat ground; in that context, the watchword for a storm-proof pack is versatility, without ever compromising lightness and reliability. Characterized by a tubular design with roll-top closure and top access, the Challenger 28 also addresses a need common to many climbers: the sudden requirement for extra space. Thanks to its ability to expand rapidly from 28 to 32 liters, the pack adapts to the load and type of outing, while the system can be compressed via removable side straps to guarantee stability even when not completely full.
Having a “tough skin” in the mountains can make the difference, and this pack proves it has one: the Challenge Sailcloth Ultra fabric delivers exceptional abrasion resistance against rock, ice, and snow. Waterproof up to 200 psi, this material maintains its performance regardless of temperature, making it ideal for the most demanding uses. The structure has been mapped with a combination of Ultra 400 and Ultra 200 to provide maximum functionality where needed, remaining rigorously PFAS-free as confirmation of the brand’s commitment to responsible processes. Inside, the organization is precise: separate compartments allow functional gear management, with side access facilitated by a water-repellent zipper that communicates with the main compartment.
The modularity of the Challenger 28 finally allows it to adapt to every activity thanks to adjustable components that enable the carry of ice axes, poles, helmet, rope, and skis, both in A-frame style and diagonal configuration. Comfort has not been neglected: the thermoformed back panel offers support when weight increases, while the adjustable shoulder straps and waist belt with double-D closure ensure effective load distribution. At just 590 grams in its most essential configuration, the Challenger 28 interprets the perfect balance between structure and minimalism, positioning itself as an all-in-one solution for contemporary technical alpinism and marking, in fact, a new chapter for La Sportiva in the outdoor market. A new chapter for La Sportiva, dedicated to those who, like Ulysses, never stop seeking to conquer the horizon.
