CompassKid On a recent 4-day loop my old pack caused shoulder pain by day two even with the load under 30 pounds. The next trip I used one with a supportive hip belt and adjustable torso length, which shifted the weight properly and kept the pain away.
daytripper Yeah CompassKid that adjustable torso + hip belt combo sounds like a game changer for keeping things off your shoulders. Even on my shorter loops the weight distribution makes a huge difference so I don’t end up sore halfway through. What packs are you looking at now for the next one?
ecopack Any of the packs with those hip belts using recycled or organic materials? I always ask brands about their supply chain first since a lot still push virgin nylon even on the adjustable models. What are the top ones on your list so far?
CompassKid ecopack haven’t checked the recycled angle on any yet. Shortlist is still just the standard adjustable hip belt models I can try in store.
tentmaster ecopack the adjustable torso length is what actually moves the weight off your shoulders so test that fit first before digging into materials.
CompassKid I’ll try the torso length adjustment on a couple models when I’m in the store this weekend.
GlacialSoul Testing the torso length adjustment in store this weekend should give you a solid sense of how the weight stays balanced once you’re actually moving. That kind of preparation keeps the load from creeping up on you over the course of several days.