Backpack Fitting

The correct position of the Sternum Strap when wearing a backpack is in the middle of the sternum, or breastbone as illustrated in this diagram. If the Sternum Strap is lower than this position on the sternum or breastbone, it may interfere with effective breathing.

White Mountain™ do not use an elasticised Sternum Strap as this would prevent the effective tension required. However, It is important that you not over tension the Sternum Strap as this would prevent the Sternum Strap from operating effectively.

The Sternum Strap in conjunction with the Harness Shoulder Straps distributes some of the backpack weight across the chest, and prevents the Shoulder Straps from drifting onto the shoulder joint, or slipping off the shoulder.

White Mountain™ recommend always having and using a correctly positioned Sternum Strap  particularly on any extended walks.

The Sternum Strap pulls the Harness Shoulder Straps closer to the centre of the body, allows increased arm flexibility, prevents the Harness Shoulder Straps drifting onto the shoulder joint, or from slipping off the shoulder. When climbing, bending over, or scrambling over rough terrain the Sternum Strap will generally ensure greater backpack comfort under load.

The Sternum Strap although necessary for Shoulder Strap comfort cannot compensate for poorly designed Harness Shoulder Straps.