Hiking backpack: how to choose it
The hiking backpack is part of the basic equipment walkers and trekkers. It is therefore advisable that you choose a valid backpack with good signage. A right choice will avoid back pain and other ailments and will allow us to fully enjoy the nature and serenity around us. For those planning to buy a backpack it will be understood that the backpack is a daily companion on the journey when you decide to go trekking or participate in a group trip on foot.
Basic rules for choosing a backpack The general rule suggests that the trekking backpack should weigh about 10% of one’s weight. A person of 50 kg should, according to this theory, carry a backpack that does not exceed 5 kg. Very often, however, this rule is not fully valid and you can carry a backpack that weighs even 20% of his body. As in the case of a traveling trekking for example. Or if you decide to walk the Camino de Santiago or the Via Francigena. It is just a good workout, a strong mind and the determination to carry the weight. Therefore essential daily training, the habit and the weight of the backpack. This means that every day the backpack always feels less. Always best to be essential, sober, bring the bare minimum. Today, thanks to the technology, there are much more lightweight materials than once. There is a type of equipment designed especially for those taking long journeys of several days. And ‘the ultralight gear. Costs slightly more but are well worth the money and products that will last a lifetime. Regarding the choice of the backpack, one cannot ignore the fact that backpacks have a measure, like clothes. They must be selected and adjusted to size to be able to ensure the comfort while walking, during a hike or a group trip on foot. It should therefore be chosen to measure. The backrest should be breathable and adjustable. It is important that there are bands that wrap around on padded hips well. This waist strap allows you to download much of the weight of the backpack on your hips rather than the shoulders.
Also fundamental is how to load the backpack.
The heavier things must be put in the lower part or at the most in the central part, the most close to the back. Equally important it is to fill well the backpack and balance the weight. The backpack should be symmetrical shape. Do not put water all on one side because doing so you unbalance it. This imbalance will weigh on the knees and joints. You must then try to load the backpack in a balanced way. In such a way that the back is not subjected to stress.
Our advice
For what is our experience as hiking guide I recommend the Osprey products. They are made with top quality materials, high performance, durable and lightweight products while protecting the environment. The Osprey backpacks are built to last. The company has a clear philosophy and always offers to repair damaged products and still usable, instead of replacing them with new products. Always with a constant attention to the environment. The Osprey is extremely cautious to every single customer, their needs and requirements. He does not leave anyone behind, just like a guide or ledear while hiking! And one of the few brands that designs products and solutions for the female gender. The Osprey Women’s backpacks are characterized by the backrest, harness and lap belts that fit the female physicality, preventing aches, sprains and fatigue. Of course, the backpacks are different depending on the activities to be performed. Obviously there are also backpacks in the male version. We do not want to advertise, but information to help you start off on the right foot.