How to measure for back packs

deerhunter

New Member
Dec 24, 2011
17
0
virginia
New to back packing. Been reading some of the posts on packs not fitting certain leangths of torso's, how do you measure for correct fit? Like to use for maybe day packing but packing out elk for sure. So many packs out there, have no idea what to buy! Thanks!!
 

Darktimber

Member
Mar 3, 2012
59
0
Colorado
I'm not going to get all scientific with the terms, but here goes. Tilt your head forward and feel the back of your neck right above your shoulders. You will feel a pronounced spot on your spine (higher than the rest). Mark that spot. Now put your hands above your hips and slide down until you feel the top of your pelvis. This is the crest, the first bony part you feel. Have someone measure from that point center of spine to your first point. That's it. You now have your torso measurement.
 

deerhunter

New Member
Dec 24, 2011
17
0
virginia
Thanks DarkTimber, that will get me started, anybody else with trial and error experience on different packs would be appreciated!
 

Darktimber

Member
Mar 3, 2012
59
0
Colorado
When it comes to packs you will probably get more opinions than you will want. It will probably confuse you more. Haha! There are a lot of pack manufactures out there and everybody loves this one or that one. Depending on your torso length, that will narrow it down some if you are shorter or longer than average. Some companies offer an adjustable torso, others you order based on your measurements. Most are fixed though and it usually fits the majority. I like Horn hunter products (full curl). Have hauled out a few pounds of meat on them a time or two and they work great. Made in USA if that means anything to you and unconditional warranty. If it breaks, they fix it. I am also eyeing the Stone Glacier packs for the longer and higher outings. They are just a little to new though and am waiting to see some feedback before jumping. Great design though IMO and a stronger, quieter frame than the KUIU's. The new Kuiu's are sweet to. Maybe toss in a few Kifarus to! Haha. See I'm already confusing myself. Good luck, there are a lot of good packs out there. Really depends on how far you are going in that will determine what you want and how much you are going to pay for it.
 

deerhunter

New Member
Dec 24, 2011
17
0
virginia
Thanks Darktimber, i know its going to be a tough decision, it will be my first, "good" pack, just trying to get some info before buying. Not had much use for one here in Virginia.