Sport-Blog.com

By Rae A. Costa

Now that you've decided to give backpacking a try it's time to start buying equipment. Backpacking equipment is an investment. If you're serious and plan on backpacking more than once or twice in your life time, then the money is well worth it. However, you do have the option of renting equipment if you so choose. This is a good way to decide what you want before actually buying it.

For the beginner, carrying everything you need in a heavy pack on your back can be disconcerting and might cause you to not even attempt backpacking. But the right equipment can make a difference. One of the most important pieces of equipment used in backpacking is the backpack.

Fitting the pack

A good pack must be fitted to fit your specific body size and type. It's important this is done correctly; otherwise your pack will be unstable and uncomfortable, if not painful. The best way to ensure your pack is right for you is to buy from a reputable store that has an experienced staff member to help you pick and fit your pack.

The first step in finding the right pack is to find the right frame size. Packs come in any number of sizes. However, it's your torso length not your overall height that matters. The weight of the pack should rest on your hips, not your shoulders. Measure the distance between the top of your shoulders and your upper hipbone. The hip belt should rest about 3/4 to 1 inch above the hipbone.

External and Internal Frames

There are two types of backpacks: external and internal.

External packs have the frame on the outside of the pack and allows for extra items to be fashioned to the frame. These packs are easy to fit and transfer the weight directly through the frame to your hips.

Internal packs have the frame enclosed inside the pack. These frames are light and less bulky than external frames. They conform to your back allowing a body-hugging fit that gives more stability.

External or internal? The choice is based entirely on your personal preference. Try on both types to determine which fits and feels better on you.

Hip belts

The hip belt is by far the most important part of your backpack. The hip belt allows the weight of the pack to rest on your hips and not your shoulders and back. This allows you to stand upright and carry the load more comfortably.

A good hip belt should be padded and molded to your hips. It should be stiff enough so it doesn't bend or fold under the weight of a heavy load.

Shoulder, Shoulder Stabilizer, and Sternum Straps

For the most part shoulder straps do nothing more than keep the pack from falling off your back. Shoulder stabilizer straps run from the top of the shoulder straps to the pack. These straps pull the pack load over your shoulders to increase stability. Both straps are adjustable to ensure a better fit.

Sternum straps come standard on most packs. These straps pull the shoulder straps into the chest to help with pack stability. If by chance a sternum strap doesn't come with your pack, you can buy the strap separately and attach it.

There are so many backpacks on the market it seems almost impossible to find the right one. Research the different styles, talk to an expert, have patience, and keep trying them on until you find one that's right for you. Once you hit the trail you'll be thankful you took the extra time to find the perfect backpack.