Backpack Fitting

Step 2 - Contour the Internal Staves

Medium Stave Length to Medium Torso Length

After measuring the Torso length and determining the correct size of backpack required, contouring the Internal Staves is the second step in fitting a backpack.

White Mountain™ strongly recommend removing the Internal Staves from all Internal Frame Backpacks and contouring these Internal Staves to the individual back. If the Internal Staves are not removable, then it will be necessary to bend the entire backpack to match the individual back curvature.

Contouring the Internal Staves correctly is essential for correct backpack fit and functionality. This enables the Internal Staves to simulate the flex action of the spine, and when required allows an effective transfer of approximately 80% of the weight to the lower back. The base of the backpack should not protrude outside or away from the body and sit squarely on the lower back. With the Internal Staves carefully contoured to the back, the backpack in the optimum position and provided the backpack is loaded correctly, the distribution of weight through the Internal Staves will ensure maximum comfort.

With a little patience, you can easily bend the two Internal Staves to the contour of the back as illustrated in this diagram, detailed steps below.

Using the 60cm Internal Stave as an example, this process will create the equivalent of a 60cm Internal Stave with a Medium Torso length of 46cm.