How to Fit a Backpack
So you know what type of backpack you
want to buy. (If not, see how to choose a backpack.)
The next
step is figuring out how to make sure your new pack fits properly.
Fitting a backpack is easy if you
know what measurements to take and what specifications to look
for. Most manufacturers offer different sizes of packs usually
designated by S/M/L or something similar. One thing to remember is that it doesn't
matter how tall you are, its all about torso length and hip size.
How to Determine Torso Length
 | Tilt the head forward to find the
7th vertebrae. This is the bony protrusion at the base of
the neck between the top of the shoulder blades. |
| Use a flexible tape or a piece of
string to measure from there to the base of your back where the
top of your hips would meet if you were to draw a line around
your body from the top of one hip to the other. Be sure to follow the contours
of the back along the spine. |
Typically the length from those two points will be anywhere from
13" to 20" and up. These distances usually fall in
these three categories.
| Small - Up to 17 1/2" |
| Medium - 18" 19 1/2" |
| Large - 20" and up |
Another thing to determine (although
not as important) is hip size. To determine this size take the
measurement all the way around the body from the top of the
hips. The only thing you need to look out for when it comes to
hip size is that the padded portions of the hip belts do not
touch.
Now you know what backpack you want
and what size to get. Visit our equipment store to buy the
backpack you are looking for.
Once you buy your backpack online,
here are a couple tips for trying out your new backpack before you
go hiking. Start by adding weight to your pack that would be
similar to the amount that you will be carrying. Then make
sure all of your straps are loose before you put it on. Put
the pack on your shoulders and clip the hip belt and tighten the
straps. Once your hipbelts are tight and are riding on the top
of your hips, tighten the shoulder straps snugly. From there
you need to clip and tighten any other straps that are on your new
pack.
Break in your pack gradually by going
on a number of short trips. By using your pack for short
periods of time you will find how to best adjust your backpack so it
is the most comfortable and won't bother your hips and shoulders on
a longer excursion.
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