Electric release for Airbag

Discover electrically triggered airbags

Tempted to buy an electrically triggered airbag? If you'd like to find out more about electrically triggered airbags, we'll guide you through your purchase. These airbags are the latest arrival on the mountain safety market. The airbag balloon(s) inflate in less than 4 seconds via a turbine powered by an electric battery. Inflating under pressure is then maintained for two and a half minutes, to ensure maximum height in the event of an avalanche. Once this time has elapsed, the airbag balloon deflates to leave enough room for the victim. The forerunners of this electrically triggered airbag system were Black Diamond and Pieps in 2013 with Jetforce technology, the system that dispenses with the need for a gas cartridge. Black Diamond airbags guarantee up to 4 successive triggers in temperatures down to -20°C. In 2018, Scott introduces a new Alpride electric trigger system with its E1 bag. This system works with two AA batteries (also equipped with a battery that can be charged via USB) that comes to power the inflatables in less than five seconds. Depending on the recharging mode, the E1 airbag's autonomy varies from 2 weeks to 3 months with two actuations.

The benefits of electric airbags

The big plus of electrically triggered airbags is that, since there's no gas cartridge or lithium-ion battery, when you're traveling by plane, there are no restrictions on taking it with you and riding in complete safety to the four corners of the globe.

Thanks to this system, which doesn't require the replacement of either the trigger unit or the gas cartridge, you can test the triggering of airbag balloons without incurring additional costs, so you can train and feel more at ease with your equipment if you find yourself in an avalanche situation, or simply check that it's triggering properly over the years of use.

Another advantage of an electric fan inflation system like the Jetforce is that you can check the functional status of the airbag via indicators on the handle.

The only drawback to buying an electrically triggered airbag is that the price is a little higher than for a cartridge airbag, but in return you don't need to buy the cartridges or trigger units.

How to choose your electric airbag?

When choosing an airbag, several criteria need to be taken into account: the capacity of the balloon (generally between 150L and 200L), the ease of use of the mechanism and its overall weight. Also make sure it's compatible with your other equipment, such as your vest or harness.

It's also essential to consider the maximum length of time the air bag remains inflated after activation; this can make a big difference in an avalanche, where every second counts! And don't forget the possibility of carrying out several tests at no extra cost: a major asset in guaranteeing your safety before every outing.

The best brands available

Well-known brands in this category include Mammut, Arva and Ortovox. Each offers a range of models to suit the varied needs of users from amateurs to seasoned professionals.

Before making a purchase, it's a good idea not only to compare these brands, but also to carefully read customer reviews to get a clear idea of their actual performance on difficult terrain.

Explore our adjacent categories

To complete your mountaineering equipment or discover even more about our diverse range of alpine safety products, feel free to explore our other categories such as Cartridge System. You'll find everything you need to make the most of your outdoor adventures! If you still have questions about innovative products like our electric airbags, don't hesitate to contact our team of experts!