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Selecting the right Backpack

See Part 1

 

Which to choose? Internal or external frame

• An internal frame pack generally fits better. This means you will stay balanced because the load moves when you move and doesn’t sway or shift. Many people who use packs in light to medium applications value the comfort, versatility and balance of an internal frame pack. More people buy internals than externals.

• External frame packs cost less and are often purchased by beginners. External frame packs are better for carrying extra-heavy loads because they shift the pack’s weight to the appropriate areas of the body where large bones and muscles can manage the load more efficiently. External frames act as extensions of bones and muscles although you may have problems with the pack’s balance.

Pack design: Features to look for

• Customizable harness sizing and shaping to allow a precision fit.
• Ease of removing and shaping frames to match back shape.
• Harness movement systems to allow free body movement, greater agility, stability and balance.

Pack materials and construction: Fabrics and features to look for

Nylon is the material of choice for pack construction. There are several types of nylon used in packs including:

• Nylon pack cloth is a water repellant fabric that is pliable and easy to sew. Nylon pack cloth has a urethane coating.
• Ballistic nylon was developed for bullet-resistant vests and military flak jackets. Ballistic nylon provides a smooth, bright, high-quality look and feel for luggage, packs and bags.
• Cordura nylon has a natural, spun-like appearance and texture. Easily cleaned and quick drying, it is not affected by rot or mildew and has excellent strength and abrasion resistance.
• Rip stop nylon is woven with a rip stop grid and coated with urethane water repellant finish.

Be sure to choose pack that is treated to be water-repellent or –resistant. If your pack isn’t water repellent, consider purchasing a water-repellent cover for it. Look for packs that have waterproof inner liners with taped seams. Seams can also be heat-welded to make them waterproof. Look for reinforced stitching at stress points, such as where straps are attached. Zippers should be reinforced. Pockets and loops should be bar tacked. Webbing should also be reinforced. In places where the pack is subject to abrasion, such as the bottom, the pack should have an extra layer or two of abrasion-resistant material such as Kevlar. The back of the pack should curve like the stays of the internal frame and should use materials that are breathable and that wick perspiration away from the body.

Fitting a backpack

It’s important to choose a backpack that fits properly. To do this you have to know a couple of your body measurements: torso length and hip measurement. To measure your torso, have a friend use a flexible tape measure to determine the distance between the bony bump at the back of your neck to the tops of your hips (where you can feel the bony protrusions in the front of your body, near your pelvis.) Armed with this number you can select a small, medium or large frame backpack.

• Up to 17.5 inches – small
• 17.5 – 19 inches – medium
• More than 20 inches – large

You should also measure around your hips so to be sure the hip belt of the pack will properly fit. A properly positioned hip belt will straddle your about an inch above and below the bony hip protrusions mentioned above.

Pack weight: Light or heavy

• Choose light weight if you are optimizing all your equipment for low weight.
• Choose heavy weight if you don’t mind carrying heavy loads and heavy gear. Also, choose heavy weight if you hike in rough terrain and bush.

Pack cost: You get what you pay for

The conventional wisdom is to buy the best pack you can afford. A flimsy or uncomfortable pack can make your backpacking or hiking trip a disaster. Like shoes or other hiking equipment, backpacks and backpacking equipment are critical pieces of hiking gear. Consider it an investment: this is no place to cheap out. $500 spent on a top-end pack for long treks outdoors will repay you with years of comfort and utility. Don’t underestimate its value.

Conclusion: Purchasing a backpack

Primary use, size, frame type, design, features, construction, materials, fit, weight, cost and consumer reviews are important components in your decision to purchase a backpack. Whether you’re hiking, biking or mountaineering, your pack should enhance your outdoor experience and enjoyment. A carefully-considered decision when buying a backpack can go a long way toward making your outdoor adventures the best that they can be.