Your choice of backpack will undoubtedly be a major factor in the level of enjoyment you derive from hiking. Choosing the right pack will offer up years of enjoyment in the sport.
Your pack should put most of the load on your hips where it can be efficiently carried. Packs that strain the shoulders are discouraged. A good pack fitter will help advise you but it comes down to how it feels to you while carrying weight. That can be accomplished at the outfitter of your choice.
Our recommendation is for a multiday pack in the 2,400-4,200 cu. in. of gear capacity. They are good for a few days to longer of hiking time (depending upon how good you are at packing and what you carry).
Take your pick: Minimalist- low weight, Ultralight-for those willing to do without some conveniences to reduce pack weight, Lightweight-offer a balance of useful features and low weight, and Deluxe-all the bells and whistles plus the weight.
Visit a quality outfitter in your town but do your homework first by researching, talking to other hikers, etc. It would be a mistake to expect the outfitter to 'read your mind' about pack selection. They can offer some suggestions but I'd head for the door if they keep pushing a brand with little regard to your ultimate needs. A good outfitter will have dead weight so you can 'store test' the pack for comfort. Also make sure of the store's return policy in the event the pack you've chosen isn't THE pack!
No comments:
Post a Comment