Freeriders have padding (and good padding at that very light weight). I have the 24 and its a great pack for resort or side country. it's not big enough to hold my ski boots so I wouldn't use it for a day in the Back country if I were planning on any hikes that day. (or just hike with my boots on). It holds all my junk and is set up for a water bladder, (which I don't use because I don't want one exploding in my pack if I check a jump to my back by accident). It has a really cool helmet attachement that is easy to use, ski and snowboard attachments and 2 ways to get into the large compartment, and several other easy to get to pockets. also has a small hip pocket which is great for sunblock or goggle cloth.
it's pricey but it jams.
