How To Choose A Cool Backpack For The Best Fit

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Bob_Storrs]Bob Storrs
Choosing cool backpacks is going to be dependent on where you are going and what you will be doing, as some backpacks come large enough to contain your sleeping bag and tent which is not needed for a daily trek in a park, nor would you want a pack so small that you need to carry additional bags. The right pack should be just big enough to carry what you need and fit you properly. This article will help you achieve a good, comfortable fit.
Trends In Cool Backpacks That Assist Fit And Comfort
The traditional external frame models have almost become obsolete and replaced by with the newer body-hugging internal frame designs. Internal frames are preferred in that they keep loads stable and balanced. Their narrow profiles contribute to more allowable movement of the arms and they are less likely to snag in the bush or crowded places. External frames are still available, but limited. The majority of backpacks will have a number which describes the carrying capacity which is also the volume expressed in liters. If you are required to carry heavier loads, you will need a backpack with a higher liter number to obtain ample capacity. Packs ranging from 40 to 75 liters for men, 40 to 55 liters for women are recommended for those weekend trips. Most backpack manufacture's designs now focus on reducing overall weight of backpacks and related gear which eases in the ability to comfortably carry the load.
The Importance Of Choosing A Backpack That Fits
While many will ponder over the various backpacks and their features, one often overlooks the most important aspect of choosing a pack that fits properly. A good fitting backpack must fit your frame comfortably. The right pack will be a size that is appropriate for your torso length, not your overall height and it must comfortably grip your hips.
How To Determine Torso Length
To determine your torso length, use a flexible tape measure and have a friend or store clerk assist you. Measure the distance between your C7 vertebra or the bony bump at the base of your neck, or the most noticeable protrusion on your upper spine if you tilt your head forward, and moving down along your spine to the hip "shelf" or pelvic girdle. You can feel this shelf when you run your hands, thumbs down the side of your rib cage and is the first hard thing you encountered by your hips. This measurement is your torso length.
You will find that most manufactures size their pack frames as follows:
Extra small fits torsos with measurements up to 15 1/2"
Small is suitable for torsos 16" to 17 1/2"
Medium is recommended for torsos of 18" to 19 1/2"
Large or tall fits torsos that are 20" and up
If you find that your measurement is exactly on one of these, or between, it is best to try on the sizes higher or smaller to ensure a better fit and compare which pack feels most comfortable. Ask to have the pack loaded for recommended carrying capacity so that you get a feel as to what it is like, fully loaded. Take time to test drive the various packs by running, walking, climbing and even sitting. You want the pack to stay snug, not sway or throw you off balance. Sometimes, individuals have no choice but to consider custom made backpacks, particularly if they are of larger, heavier builds or more petite frames to ensure optimum fit.
If you're looking to buy a backpack you'll want to head on over to [http://www.cool-backpacks.com]www.Cool-Backpacks.com for more information you'll need to know before making your purchase. You can also review some of the more popular models at [http://www.Cool-Backpacks.com/herschel_backpack.html]Herschel Backpack.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?How-To-Choose-A-Cool-Backpack-For-The-Best-Fit&id=6609180] How To Choose A Cool Backpack For The Best Fit