Features Of Backpacks For Hiking
There are many different types of backpacks for hiking, and each of them has its own special features.
Once you know about the different features that are available and their purpose, you may be able to decide on which backpacks for hiking are the right kind for you.
Again, it all depends on the type of hiking you are going to do.
The basic shoulder harness has really evolved as the technology of hiking has been improved.
In general, the greater the load, the more technical features you should be looking at.
If you have a light load, then the basic shoulder straps are just fine.
However you should opt for curved straps that are broader and have more padding for your shoulders if the load is heavier.
A chest or sternum strap will help keep your shoulders from being pulled back into an uncomfortable position from the weight of the load.
The chest straps are usually connected with a clip lock that allows you to connect them across your chest, and then to adjust the tightness.
Upper stabilizer straps are very helpful in this case.
If you are going on a long expedition, you will want to invest in the kinds of backpacks for hiking that include a hip belt.
This is the best way to transfer the strain or weight of the load in the backpack from the shoulders to the hips, which is closer to your center of gravity.
Nearly everyone will find that using a hip belt makes bearing the load easier.
Different people will require a hip belt at different load weights.
For instance a teenage girl will need a hip belt at a lower weight than a male body builder will.
It is a very individualized thing, but you are much better off with a hip belt than without one if you have a heavy load.
The heavier the load, the more effective the hip belt will need to be.
You will want one that actually goes in a full circle, not just straps that come from the sides of the base of the backpack.
The types of backpacks for hiking that include a lumbar pad and the belt should be padded too.
Without the padding, it could push against pressure points that may become painful very quickly.
With a heavier load, the belt will tend to slide down, so some of the newer models include high friction fabrics to make it harder to slide.
Many backpacks for hiking have a built-in hydration system that includes a water bladder and a drinking tube.
Others are designed for you to add this type of hydration system if you want to.
This can be especially helpful if you need your hands free most of the time to help you get through a rough hike.
Other features of backpacks for hiking include the configuration of the inner and outer pockets.
Generally, the inner pockets will help you to separate your gear while the outer pockets can hold the things you need to have access to while you are hiking.
Be careful not to overload the outer pockets because this could cause your load to shift and put pressure on your back or shoulder.
You will also find that many backpacks include bungee cords or equipment straps that allow you to attach equipment to the exterior of the pack.
Follow all instructions when attaching gear here, and be careful not to unbalance the backpack.
Depending on your activity, you can attach such things as climbing robes or even skis or a snowboard.
You can also get backpacks for hiking that include a splash cover that can cover the whole pack to keep it safe from rain, dew, or even while you cross a river.
As you can see, there are many helpful features that will benefit your different outdoor activities.
Once you know about the different features that are available and their purpose, you may be able to decide on which backpacks for hiking are the right kind for you.
Again, it all depends on the type of hiking you are going to do.
The basic shoulder harness has really evolved as the technology of hiking has been improved.
In general, the greater the load, the more technical features you should be looking at.
If you have a light load, then the basic shoulder straps are just fine.
However you should opt for curved straps that are broader and have more padding for your shoulders if the load is heavier.
A chest or sternum strap will help keep your shoulders from being pulled back into an uncomfortable position from the weight of the load.
The chest straps are usually connected with a clip lock that allows you to connect them across your chest, and then to adjust the tightness.
Upper stabilizer straps are very helpful in this case.
If you are going on a long expedition, you will want to invest in the kinds of backpacks for hiking that include a hip belt.
This is the best way to transfer the strain or weight of the load in the backpack from the shoulders to the hips, which is closer to your center of gravity.
Nearly everyone will find that using a hip belt makes bearing the load easier.
Different people will require a hip belt at different load weights.
For instance a teenage girl will need a hip belt at a lower weight than a male body builder will.
It is a very individualized thing, but you are much better off with a hip belt than without one if you have a heavy load.
The heavier the load, the more effective the hip belt will need to be.
You will want one that actually goes in a full circle, not just straps that come from the sides of the base of the backpack.
The types of backpacks for hiking that include a lumbar pad and the belt should be padded too.
Without the padding, it could push against pressure points that may become painful very quickly.
With a heavier load, the belt will tend to slide down, so some of the newer models include high friction fabrics to make it harder to slide.
Many backpacks for hiking have a built-in hydration system that includes a water bladder and a drinking tube.
Others are designed for you to add this type of hydration system if you want to.
This can be especially helpful if you need your hands free most of the time to help you get through a rough hike.
Other features of backpacks for hiking include the configuration of the inner and outer pockets.
Generally, the inner pockets will help you to separate your gear while the outer pockets can hold the things you need to have access to while you are hiking.
Be careful not to overload the outer pockets because this could cause your load to shift and put pressure on your back or shoulder.
You will also find that many backpacks include bungee cords or equipment straps that allow you to attach equipment to the exterior of the pack.
Follow all instructions when attaching gear here, and be careful not to unbalance the backpack.
Depending on your activity, you can attach such things as climbing robes or even skis or a snowboard.
You can also get backpacks for hiking that include a splash cover that can cover the whole pack to keep it safe from rain, dew, or even while you cross a river.
As you can see, there are many helpful features that will benefit your different outdoor activities.
