 Fitting Backpacks
Harness Systems
A harness system is a combination of backpack, shoulder straps, and hip or
waist belt that offer the facility to carry a backpack. Further, better designs
also internal HDPE Frame Sheets, an Internal Frame or maybe a combination of
both. These harness systems can also include adjustable Shoulder Straps to allow
for differing Torso Lengths, a Sternum Strap, Upper and Lower Load Stabiliser
Straps, a padded Lumbar Pad and padded back.
There are several main harness systems in use today and these are listed
as follows:
The Fixed Harness System is when the Shoulder Straps are not adjustable to
allow for different Torso Lengths. The Shoulder Straps are in a fixed position
on the backpack and the common use for this type of harness system is on daypacks.
Although, some manufacturers also use this harness system on larger hike and
travel packs. The use of this harness system on larger backpacks is quite acceptable,
provided the fixed position and length of the Shoulder Straps is correct. This
type of harness system is also less expensive, lighter and in some circumstances
the perfect choice.
The Ladder Harness System is when the Shoulder Straps are adjustable to allow
for different Torso Lengths. The Shoulder Straps in this harness connect at
a single point on the backpack (the yoke) and you adjust the Torso Length positioning
by attaching the Shoulder Strap Yoke at different points on the webbing ladder.
The Sliding Yoke Harness System is when the Shoulder Straps are adjustable
to allow for different Torso Lengths. The Shoulder Straps in this harness connect
at a single point on the backpack (the yoke) and you adjust the Torso Length
positioning by sliding the Shoulder Strap Yoke along the Internal Staves. Quite
commonly, this Sliding Yoke is much larger than the yoke on the ladder harness
system is most often padded and usually has a ventilation channel running from
top to bottom to provide airflow.
The Independent Sliding Harness System is when the Shoulder Straps are adjustable
to allow for different Torso Lengths. The Shoulder Straps in this harness connect
independently to each of the Internal Staves and you adjust the Torso Length
positioning by sliding each shoulder Strap independent of the other. This type
of harness system allows for variations in the body from the left or right side
when adjusting the pull position of the Upper Load Stabilizer Straps and provides
better back ventilation.
White Mountain use each of these harness systems and have enhanced the performance
of each, by improving the functionality of the raw design.
The SHS for instance has a unique sliding system. Instead of buckling to the Internal Stave, White Mountain
encase the Internal Stave in a 50 mm webbing sleeve. This is much stronger than using
buckles, is far more stable, and assists in eliminating unwanted backpack sway.
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