Women's Packs
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by Backcountry BobQ. I'm shopping for a new day to multi-day pack. I'm only 5'3" in height. What are the advantages of a pack made specifically for women over a standard pack? I have heard Gregory is making an excellent pack for women—I just have not seen it. I really like the Arc'Teryx packs, but worry about the sizing when they only come in long torso and regular. I would appreciate any input on this matter.
A. Thanks for your question. Women specific packs are different than men's in subtle ways; usually the hipbelt is padded differently and the shoulder straps are curved differently to match female anatomy. Many women’s packs feature a slimmer or narrower profile, as well.
The most important thing is to match your torso length with the size of the pack. As far as fit goes, you should first measure your torso length by bending your head forward so your chin touches your chest. Feel for the most prominent bump at the back of your neck; now measure from that point down to an imaginary line connecting the tops of your hips around your back. This works best with a partner’s help.
Most packs come in different sizes or have adjustable suspensions that can correspond to your torso length. With the waistbelt firmly centered on the tops of your hips, your pack straps should conform to your shoulder blades with only a slight gap behind your shoulders. Again, have a partner check this for you.
Gregory makes excellent fitting women’s packs. The Petit Dru or the Deva 60 both come to mind. Check them out. Almost all Arc’Terxy packs come in a short length as well. In most Arc’Terxy series, a regular pack goes down to a 16" torso length, with short to a 14". Thanks & happy hiking!
This month’s Gear Guru question was submitted by Bonnie Rose from Overland Park, KS. Bonnie will receive a BackcountryStore.com Nalgene bottle for her question. Enjoy Bonnie!
A. Thanks for your question. Women specific packs are different than men's in subtle ways; usually the hipbelt is padded differently and the shoulder straps are curved differently to match female anatomy. Many women’s packs feature a slimmer or narrower profile, as well.
The most important thing is to match your torso length with the size of the pack. As far as fit goes, you should first measure your torso length by bending your head forward so your chin touches your chest. Feel for the most prominent bump at the back of your neck; now measure from that point down to an imaginary line connecting the tops of your hips around your back. This works best with a partner’s help.
Most packs come in different sizes or have adjustable suspensions that can correspond to your torso length. With the waistbelt firmly centered on the tops of your hips, your pack straps should conform to your shoulder blades with only a slight gap behind your shoulders. Again, have a partner check this for you.
Gregory makes excellent fitting women’s packs. The Petit Dru or the Deva 60 both come to mind. Check them out. Almost all Arc’Terxy packs come in a short length as well. In most Arc’Terxy series, a regular pack goes down to a 16" torso length, with short to a 14". Thanks & happy hiking!
This month’s Gear Guru question was submitted by Bonnie Rose from Overland Park, KS. Bonnie will receive a BackcountryStore.com Nalgene bottle for her question. Enjoy Bonnie!