A well-fitted pack makes a huge difference to comfort on the trail. Before you buy, remember that packs aren’t one-size-fits-all. Some come in women-specific fits, different frame sizes, or with adjustable lengths. Your pack size is based on your torso length, not your height, and not every pack will suit every body shape. So it’s essential to try before you buy.
Here's how to fit your pack before your next trip.
1. Fit your pack with weight inside
Before adjusting it, pack your bag as you would for a trip. An empty pack will not sit on your body in the same way as a loaded one. Loosen all straps.
2. Start with the hip belt
Put your pack on and start by getting your hip belt in the right place. The top of your hip
bones should sit in the middle of the hip belt. Once it’s on, check by finding your belly button – your hip belt should sit a couple of finger widths below. Tighten the belt to get 80 per cent of the pack’s weight on your hips.
3. Adjust shoulder straps and chest strap
Pull the shoulder straps down and back. Then do up your chest strap, but keep it loose, not
tight.
4. Fine-tune load lifters
At the top of your pack, where it connects with the shoulder straps, you will see the load lifter straps. Pulling these towards you will bring the weight closer to your body so your pack doesn’t pull you backwards. Pull them too close and it can lift your shoulder straps up. So adjust them until you find the sweet spot. You will keep adjusting these often on trail as your pack moves around and the weight of it changes. Or if you are going uphill, you might want to pull them in closer to keep the weight close to your body.
5. Check your fit
Look at where the shoulder straps meet the top of your pack. This should sit flush against
your shoulders with no gaps and no pressure on your shoulders. A simple way to check the fit is to stand up straight and look in the mirror.
- If you can slide your fingers between your shoulder and the shoulder strap, the
pack's torso length is too long.
- If the straps put pressure on your shoulders, the torso length is too short.
If your pack has an adjustable harness, adjust the torso length until the shoulder
straps fit correctly. If your pack isn't adjustable, you may need a different frame size.
6. The goal
The right pack should feel balanced, comfortable and move naturally with your body with no pressure points or painful areas. If it’s not quite right, have a play and try again, or pop into an outdoor shop and ask them to have a look.
Your pack should make your adventure amazing, and not be a pain in the back!
Top tip: Always try a pack on with weight inside and walk around before purchasing.
Need more help? Come say hi and we can help you fit your pack!