Kulkea Launches Heated Ski Boot Backpack for Colder Starts
Kulkea's Thermal Kart is a 40-liter backpack with a heated compartment that can warm two ski boots using low, medium, or high settings. It can plug into a wall outlet before departure and a 12-volt car outlet during travel, with a maximum temperature of 140°F and an eight-hour limit. The bag includes carry-on-friendly features, a helmet sling, and water-resistant materials, priced at $279.95.
Kulkea’s Thermal Kart is a 40-liter ski boot backpack with a heated section sized for two boots. It offers three heat levels, reaches as high as 140°F, and should not run longer than eight hours. It can warm boots from a wall socket before leaving and from a vehicle’s 12-volt outlet while driving; unplugged, it no longer adds heat.
The bag accepts boots up to Mondo 29.5 and loads from the top. A helmet can ride outside on a pull-out sling, while the ripstop shell and tarpaulin base and sides resist wet conditions. Padded straps, a breathable back panel, sternum strap, luggage pass-through, and carry-on-oriented design support travel. It costs $279.95; Kulkea also offers a larger 62-liter heated model.
The Thermal Kart could appeal to skiers who struggle with cold, stiff boots and want one bag for boots and essentials. It may simplify early resort departures and air travel for some, though its $279.95 price and carry-on size checks could limit broader adoption. Ski shops and travel-gear makers may see demand for heated, integrated luggage, while travelers remain dependent on outlet access before or after flights.