 Fitting Packs
Loading Backpacks
We recommend the maximum weight a fit individual can comfortably carry, is
less than 1/3 or 33% of their own body weight. For everyone else, we recommend
less than ¼ or 25% of their own body weight in total backpack weight.
Begin by stuffing the lower compartment of the backpack. If you have a sleeping
bag stuff this into the lower compartment first, then fill all other space in
the lower compartment with any bulky items that are without weight, making sure
you fill all the bottom corners. It is essential to create a solid foundation
for the rest of the load in the upper compartment.
Load the remainder of your gear with heavy items such as your stove and cooking
gear near your back, and as high as possible in the upper compartment. Pack
the lighter gear lower and away from the back. On travel packs, the daypack
should only contain lightweight essential items and definitely nothing heavy.
If your load is less than full, use your compression straps to compress and
hold the load tight and prevent backpack sway. Avoid backpack sway, as any excess
of movement created would quickly cause fatigue.
White Mountain™ provide total control to shift the weight entirely to your
hips, entirely to your shoulders, or you can choose the distribution of weight
between the hips and the shoulders.
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Loosen the Shoulder Straps until you feel the load shift downward onto
your lower back and hips.
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Tighten your Hip Belt to compensate for this weight transference.
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Loosen and then tighten the Upper Load Stabilizer Straps until the backpack
is comfortably against the back. Do not over tension the Upper Load Stabilizer
Straps, as this would draw the Shoulder Straps away from the shoulders, render
the Sternum Strap ineffective, and place excessive pressure on the chest.
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Loosen your Hip Belt.
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Tighten the Shoulder Straps for a full transfer of weight to your shoulders.
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Loosen and then tighten the Upper Load Stabilizer Straps until the backpack
is comfortably against the back. Do not over tension the Upper Load Stabilizer
Straps, as this would draw the Shoulder Straps away from the shoulders and
place excessive pressure on the chest.
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