Sizing Backpacks

[Carter79]

I am bigger than anyone I've met up here in Connecticut--6'1", 250 lbs. Are there any good weekend/week long packs that fit me?

[fearless]

When you fit a pack, it's more about your spine length from C7 (lowest neck vertebra) to hips than your total height- because some tall people have medium height torso's... long legs make up more of the height. check out the fitting and sizing instructions on sites like osprey or gregory.

[hhos]

Just adding on to what fearless has said, look for a pack with adjustable shoulder straps and interchangeable hip belts. The Best bet is to always try before you buy. If you want suggestions, I would look at either the Gregory z55 or the Osprey Aether 60. They are fairly popular bags so any specialty shop around you should have at least one of them. For better prices, however, you can check them out at www.hermitshut.com Hope this helps

[Bagfree]

Recommend this (http://www.atafa.com/sports/advanced_search_result.php?keywords=hiking+backpac k) for you.

[bdavison]

The first thing is decide what kind of hiking you plan to do with the pack. Is this pack for long distance hiking, or just for weekend trips?

How much stuff do you plan on carrying? Do you need a 1500ci pack or a 3800ci pack to hold all your stuff?
How much space does the equipment you are taking require? Buying a nice fitting pack only to realize that your stuff wont fit isnt much fun as is having 2000ci of space left over.

First weigh all the stuff you will be carrying with you. You need to know this weight before you go buy a pack.

Next find a reputable outfitter, and go. They can help you select a pack that fits your needs.

The harness needs to fit correctly, and the only way to find one is to go try it on. Try it with weight in it simulating your load. 2/3rds of the weight should be on the hip belt. It should be snug, but not pinching anywhere. Does it feel comfortable. Jump up and down. Is it sliding around or shifting sideways? Do you feel top heavy?

Choosing a pack is very important. After all...whatever you choose is going to be riding you for your entire trip. Do you want a kicking screaming 3 year old on your back, or a pillow?

[a061977]

See if there is an REI store near you. www.REI.com. They rent hiking equipment. Good way to try out a pack, bag or whatever.

[natchez]

Heyyyy to try out by renting it first, is a g-r-e-a-t idea B)