(cache)How to Choose a Backpack

Woman in the mountains with a backpack and "How to Choose a Backpack" text

A backpack is an indispensable piece of equipment for mountaineering. The required capacity varies depending on your outdoor activity, such as day hiking, overnights at a mountain hut, or tent camping. This article introduces how to select a backpack that suits your intended purpose.

Backpack Component Names and Functions

Backpacks incorporate various features to ensure comfort. The main body uses highly durable fabric, while the back panel that comes into contact with the body employs materials that dry quickly even when you are working up a sweat. Additionally, to carry heavy loads in a well-balanced manner, they are equipped with hip belts and stabilizer straps.

1. Top lid

It is convenient for storing items that you wish to access immediately. Additionally, the height can be adjusted according to the amount of volume inside your pack. Some models can be detached and used independently as a bag.

2. Compression strap

By tightening according to the volume inside the pack, the center of gravity is drawn closer to the body. It can also be used to secure trekking poles, tent poles, sleeping pads, skis, and other items.

3. Side pockets

These pockets are convenient for storing items such as water bottles that you want to quickly access while on the move. It can also be used in conjunction with compression belts to store poles and similar items.

4. Ice axe attachment loop

This is an indispensable function for alpine mountaineering that secures ice axes and ice tools. Trekking poles can also be secured.

5. Shoulder Harnesses

A harness for carrying a backpack. Some models allow the position of the shoulder harness to be adjusted according to body type.

6. Stabilizer Straps

A strap for drawing the backpack closer to the body. It stabilizes the center of gravity, promoting better balance. Adjust this at the final stage of fitting.

7. Chest strap

This is a strap designed to prevent the shoulder harness from slipping off the shoulders and to minimize backpack movement. The height is adjusted according to one's body type.

8. Back Panel

Each model has distinctive features where the backpack comes into contact with the back. Those made with mesh material offer high breathability and are comfortable during hotter weather. For winter mountaineering, materials that resist snow adhesion rather than mesh are more suitable.

9. Hip Belt

The curved shape that wraps around the waist adheres closely to the body. By distributing the load between the waist and shoulders when carrying, fatigue can be reduced.

Key Selection Points

When selecting a backpack, determine the necessary capacity based on your intended outdoor activity. Then, carefully examine the functions you require in a backpack and narrow down the models accordingly.

Select the appropriate capacity based on your outdoor activity

Day hiking

Woman hiking in the mountains with a backpack

Small pack [Capacity] 20-25L
For day hiking, depending on the route and season, a standard capacity of 20 to 25 liters is typical when combining basic equipment and food supplies. If you carefully select your equipment and reduce weight, 15 liters can also suffice.

Overnights at a mountain hut

Two women hiking in the mountains with backpacks

Medium pack [Capacity] 30-40L
For overnight stays at mountain huts, in addition to the basic equipment for day trips, you will need to bring items such as sheets and sleeping bags for accommodation, a change of clothes, toiletries, and food for several days. Therefore, 30 to 40 liters is appropriate.

Backpacking

Tent pitched in the mountains with a person resting inside

Large pack [Capacity] 50L and above
Backpacking involves carrying everything needed for clothing, food, and shelter on one's back. The necessary equipment increases substantially, including a tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, cooking utensils, and provisions. Depending on the number of nights you plan to be out, a large pack of 50 liters or more is suitable.

Narrow down models by comparing specifications

Once the backpack capacity has been determined, narrow down the models while comparing specifications. Each model differs in terms of access methods to the main compartment and the pockets. While having many pockets is convenient, this may increase the weight of the pack. The product's weight and fabric durability are also important considerations when making a selection.

Access to the Main Compartment

Zipper
Access to the main compartment by zipper is the most straightforward method. This design is widely adopted in small packs.

Drawcord
The drawcord type offers the ability to expand capacity and allows items to be secured between the top lid and the main body.

Roll-Up Closure
Quick opening and closing is possible, and when used in conjunction with the included Aqua Barrier Sack, it exhibits high waterproof performance.

Pocket Types

Taking an Outdoor Energy Bar Long Trail Chocolate & Nuts from the shoulder pocket

Shoulder Pocket
Pocket on the shoulder strap for quick access during activity.

Taking a wallet from the hip belt pocket

Hip Belt Pocket
Zippered pocket for convenient access to small items.

Side Pocket
Can store tent poles and trekking poles in conjunction with side straps.

Front pocket
A zippered pocket on the front for storing small items and other accessories.

Securing clothing with compression straps

Compression pocket
Large-opening pocket for stowing a jacket or other items.

Hidden pocket
Pocket located on the underside of the top lid, suitable for storing valuables and other items.

Fabric durability and lightweight properties

Comparing the transparency of 30-denier and 100-denier white fabric

The thickness of the fabric is expressed by a numerical value called denier. The higher the numerical value, the thicker and more durable the fabric becomes. If there is a possibility that the backpack will rub against rocky terrain, choose one with durability. Lightweight fabric is recommended for those who wish to keep their backpack as light as possible.

Torso length

Illustration of back length (distance from the seventh cervical vertebra to the top of the hip bones)

Choose one that fits your torso length. The torso length of most small and medium-sized packs is one size and cannot be adjusted. Some large packs have a feature that allows you to adjust the torso length by changing the height of the harness.

Women's models

Women's models are recommended for women and smaller individuals. While retaining all the functionality of the regular models, the shoulder harness, back panel, and hipbelt are designed to fit smaller frames. These models are suitable for heights ranging from approximately 145 cm / 57.1 in to 165 cm / 65 in.

Day hike models <Small packs>

For day hiking, a small pack of 20-25L is recommended. Even for day trips, it is essential to carry a headlamp, first aid kit, and emergency sheet as preparation for emergencies. Additionally, a map and compass are indispensable to prevent getting lost.

Small pack product lineup

Lightweight model
Multi-function models
Women's model

Lightweight model

Designed for "Light & Fast"

Versalite Pack
Unisex model: 15 L (915 cu in) / 20 L (1220 cu in)
Weight: 220 g (7.8 oz) [20 L]
Fabric: 30-denier (bottom: 100-denier)
Access: Drawcord
Pocket: Side pocket [20 L only]
Features: Trail Water Pack compatible

Streamlined & lightweight

Balance Light
Unisex model: 20 L (1220 cu in)
Weight: 443 g (15.6 oz) [20 L]
Fabric: 100-denier
Access: Drawcord
Pocket: Hidden security pocket on top lid
Features: Trail Water Pack compatible

Highly water resistant

Storm Pack
Unisex model: 20 L (1220 cu in)
Weight: 470 g (1 lb 0.6 oz) [20 L]
Fabric: 100-denier
Access: Roll-up
Pocket: None
Features: Trail Water Pack compatible

Lightweight & waterproof

Altiplano Pack
Unisex model: 20 L (1220 cu in)
Weight: 452 g (15.9 oz) [20 L]
Fabric: 30-denier (bottom: 100-denier)
Access: Roll-up
Pocket: Side pocket, Front pocket
Features: Trail Water Pack compatible, Aqua Barrier Sack included, Roll-Up Closure System

Lightweight & durable

Garwhar Pack
Unisex model: 15 L (915 cu in) / 20 L (1220 cu in) / 25 L (1525 cu in)
Weight: 533 g / 1 lb 2.8 oz [20 L]
Fabric: 100-denier
Access: Zipper
Pocket: Side pocket
Features: Trail Water Pack compatible, With pack cover

Easily access models

Denali Pack
Unisex model: 20 L (1220 cu in) / 25 L (1525 cu in)
Weight: 575 g / 1 lb 4.3 oz
Fabric: 100-denier
Access: Zipper
Pocket: Side pocket
Features: Trail Water Pack compatible, With pack cover

Multi-function models

User-friendly & waterproof

Rurui Pack
Unisex model: 23 L (1403 cu in)
Weight: 617 g / 1 lb 5.8 oz
Fabric: 100-denier
Access: Roll-up
Pocket: Side pocket
Features: Trail Water Pack compatible, Aqua Barrier Sack included, Roll-Up Closure System

Multi-pocketed

Galena Pack
Unisex model: 20 L (1220 cu in) / 25 L (1525 cu in)
Women's model: 20 L (1220 cu in) / 25 L (1525 cu in)
Weight: 759 g / 1 lb 10.8 oz [20 L]
Fabric: 100-denier (bottom: 210-denier)
Access: Zipper
Pocket: Side pocket, Hip belt pocket, Shoulder pocket, Compression pocket
Features: Trail Water Pack compatible, With pack cover

Multi-pocketed models

Nupuri Pack
Unisex model: 20 L (1220 cu in) / 25 L (1525 cu in)
Women's model: 20 L (1220 cu in) / 25 L (1525 cu in)
Weight: 795 g / 1 lb 12 oz [20 L]
Fabric: 100-denier
Access: Zipper
Pocket: Side pocket, Hip belt pocket, Shoulder pocket
Features: Trail Water Pack compatible, With pack cover

Lightweight & functional models

Alpine Light Pack
Unisex model: 20 L / 1220 cu in
Weight: 870 g / 1 lb 14.7 oz [20 L]
Fabric: 30-denier (bottom: 100-denier)
Access: Roll-up
Pocket: Side pocket, Hip belt pocket, Shoulder pocket
Features: Trail Water Pack compatible, Aqua Barrier Sack included, Roll-Up Closure System

Back panel promotes airflow

Rera Pack
Unisex model: 25 L (1526 cu in)
Women's model: 25 L (1526 cu in)
Weight: 1000 g (2 lbs 3.3 oz) [25 L]
Fabric: 100-denier (bottom: 210-denier)
Access: Zipper
Pocket: Side pocket, Shoulder pocket, Compression pocket
Features: Trail Water Pack compatible, With pack cover, V.B.P. (Ventilation Back Panel) System

Women's model

Lightweight & streamlined model

Rose Pack
Women's model: 20 L / 1220 cu in
Weight: 455 g / 1 lb 0 oz
Fabric: 210-denier
Access: Drawcord
Pocket: Side pocket, Hidden security pocket on top lid
Features: Trail Water Pack compatible

Lightweight & durable models

First Pack
Women's model: 15 L (915 cu in) / 20 L (1220 cu in)
Weight: 489 g / 1 lb 1.2 oz [20 L]
Fabric: 100-denier
Access: Zipper
Pocket: Side pocket, Shoulder pocket, Compression pocket
Features: Trail Water Pack compatible

List of small packs

Overnight models <Medium-sized pack>

For mountain hut hiking, a 30 to 40-liter backpack is recommended. In addition to the basic equipment for day trips, you will need to carry items such as sheets or sleeping bags for accommodation, warm clothing, a change of clothes, toiletries, and food for several days.