Pack for broad shoulders

[jay]

hey guys, what packs are built for us bigger guys. I have a Kuiu 1850 and when I pack it and walk a day with it on, I get really sore on my shoulders close to my neck. I have tried to adjust it but still seems to do the same thing, I'm thinking its made to narrow for me. I let me son use it a couple times and it didn't bother him but he is a lot smaller than I am. Was curious if i'm missing something on the adjustment of this pack or if other companies make bigger packs. hate to spend another 3-400 on another pack and have the same problem. Thanks

 

[Againstthewind]

I am not an expert by any means, but if you get the belt pretty good and tight, its easier to carry the weight on your hips and not your shoulders. It might be just a belt adjustment like you were saying. I used to be the broad in the shoulders narrow in the hips type, but my hips and waist have caught up lately. Chest straps also help take some of the weight off the shoulders and neck area and keep the shoulder straps spread out correctly. One problem I have is that the chest straps are usually too short, especially with a coat on. I have had to sew on a patch to length them. I think it is at least partly an adjustment thing because you shouldn't have strain on your neck. Hopefully that helps, it takes some hiking to get the straps adjusted to you. Anyway, those are the things that have helped me when I have had the sore neck and shoulders backpacking at least. A day with a pack on is usually enough to make me a little sore anyway, so maybe advil is the only thing to help, lol.

 

[badgerbob]

Here is what works for me. I can't remember who told me about it, but I did not come up with it on my own. First the pack must fit you. It must be long enough so when the belt is tight the top of the straps are above your shoulders. Second the belt needs to be tight enough to keep the pack on your hips and not slide down, even when loaded. Third the shoulder straps need to be adjusted so that they are just above your shoulders. No strap pressure should be on the top of the shoulder. Fourth the chest straps need to be just tight enough not to allow the pack to move away from your back. This way your hips have most of the weight and there is very little pressure on the shoulders. Does this even make sense?

 

[Slugz]

What BB said. Jay IMO its not riding correctly. I liken your story to when I elk hunt with a fanny pack shoulder harness set up. I take it cause its light and I end up getting in too far, animal goes down and then I say" aw heck I can get a front qtr out with this thing". The straps don't adjust enough and the hip belt is too long or low on my hips. I come back with sore traps/shoulders. That pack you have should adjust correctly unless you are 6' 8' 320 lbs or so. All the best and Happy Holidays.