Knowing how to measure the torso length of a backpack correctly is essential for maximizing your comfort and safety while carrying a heavier load. If you don’t have the right fit, your pack may be uncomfortable or even cause injury. In this blog post, we’ll provide all the tips and tricks you need – so you can make sure your bag is always hitting the right spot!
Why the Right Size of Backpack Matters
Having the wrong size can lead to discomfort and pain while carrying your backpack. It can also put unnecessary strain on your shoulders and back.
The most important factor in determining the correct size of backpack for you is the torso length measurement. This measurement will tell you if a backpack fits comfortably on your back or not.
To measure torso length correctly, follow these steps:
- Stand upright with the feet shoulder-width apart
- Place one hand on top of your opposite shoulder blade
- Use your other hand to locate the hip bone (iliac crest) located just above this
- Bend your elbow and measure the distance between these two points with a measuring tape
Once you have taken this measurement, you can find out which backpack sizes are suitable for you. Generally, backpacks come in four different sizes: XS (extra small), S (small), M (medium) and L (large).
It is also important to consider the width of your shoulders when buying a backpack. If you have wider than average shoulders, look for backpacks with adjustable shoulder straps that can help you find the right fit for your body type.
Getting the right size of backpack is essential to make sure that it fits comfortably on your back and distributes weight evenly. With the right size, you’ll be able to carry all your necessary items without experiencing any discomfort or pain. So take some time and do not forget to consider the width of your shoulders when selecting a backpack!
How to Measure Torso Length
Now it’s time to learn how to measure your own.
Begin at the top of your iliac crest and measure down to the C7 vertebrae. This is your torso length. Keep in mind that this value might not necessarily match up with a specific backpack size — it’s just helpful information for when you’re shopping around. [1]
Find a backpack with adjustable hip straps or an adjustable back panel so that you can fine-tune it as needed for optimal comfort.
How to Size and Fit a Backpack
When it comes to backpacks, one size does not fit all. That’s why it’s important to choose a backpack that fits your body shape and size.
Measure Your Torso Length
Now that you know why it is important to measure your torso length, let’s look at how you go about doing this.
The first step is to find a friend and get them to help. You will need someone to hold the measuring tape and take the measurements for you.
Take this figure, add an inch or two to allow for any additional items you might need to store in the backpack, and then use it as a guide when looking at sizing charts on backpack websites before making a purchase.
That way you can enjoy all of nature’s beauty without worrying about your bag sliding off while walking.
Use Your Torso Length to Find Your Pack Size
Your torso length is the most important part of determining the right backpack size for you. You’ll want to find a pack that fits correctly, so having your torso length measured is essential. Knowing your torso length will allow you to select the correct pack size and fit. Here are some tips on how to measure your own torso:
- Start by standing up straight in front of a mirror and hold a measuring tape at your C7 vertebrae (the bone at the base of your neck) with one hand while holding it up against your back with the other hand.
- Keep the measuring tape flat against your back and then extend it down towards the small of your back until you reach an imaginary line across your iliac crest (top of your hip bone).
- Make a note of the measurement you receive in inches. This is your torso length and will be used to determine the size pack that will fit you best.
Now that you know what your torso length is, you can use it to find a backpack that fits you perfectly.
Measure Your Hip Size
Measuring your hip size is one of the most important steps in accurately measuring the torso length for your backpack. Measure around the widest part of your hips with a flexible tape measure or ruler and ensure to keep the tape level. Make sure to record both inches and centimeters for future reference.
Adjusting Torso Length
Once you have the measurement of your torso length, it is time to adjust the backpack to fit. Ensure that all straps are loosened before making any adjustments. You should then try on the unladen pack and ensure that the shoulder straps are located at or just below your shoulders.
For backpacks with adjustable torso lengths, locate the section where this adjustment can be made. This may involve unbuckling some straps so that you can slide this part of the pack up or down to the correct measurement. Once you have done this, firmly buckle the straps and try on the pack with some weight in it to make sure that it is adjusted correctly.
Fit Adjustment at Home
To ensure that your new backpack fits you perfectly, follow these steps!
- Place a soft ruler or measuring tape at the bottom of your neck and run it along your spine until it reaches the top of the hip bones. This is usually just above where your waistband sits on pants.
- Make sure that the measuring tool is held firmly against your back while you measure, as this will give you an accurate reading of your torso length.
- Record the measurement in inches or centimeters, depending on which unit of measurement you plan on using when looking at backpack sizes.
- Now that you have your torso length measurement, you can use it to find a backpack that is the right size and shape for your body.
Finding the right fit in a backpack is essential for comfort and performance when using the bag. With these simple steps, you can easily measure your own torso length from home and ensure that your new bag fits properly.
Hipbelt
To measure your backpack torso length, start by locating the placement of your hipbelt. This will provide you with a guide for where the shoulder straps should be positioned in order to get the best fit for your body. To do this, stand up straight and place one hand on each side of your hips. You should feel something like a shelf or ledge on the backside of your hips – this is called iliac crest and it is located at about waist level. Measure from the top of the iliac crest down to the top of your hipbone – this measurement will be used as a guide in determining where the shoulder straps should sit when wearing a backpack. It’s important that they don’t go too low, as this will cause the pack to hang off of your shoulders and be uncomfortable.
Shoulder Straps
Now that you have taken the measurement from your iliac crest to your hipbone, it’s time to measure for the shoulder straps. Stand up straight again and hold one hand on top of each shoulder blade. The distance between them is where the shoulder straps should sit when wearing a backpack – make sure they are not higher than the iliac crest measurement or lower than your waist level. With your hands in their respective places, measure the distance between them – this is your torso length measurement. Write down both measurements for future reference when shopping for backpacks online or in stores.
Load Lifters
The next step in measuring your backpack torso length is to consider the placement of load lifters. They are straps that attach near the tops of the shoulder straps and run up towards the top of the pack, usually attaching on either side of a sternum strap. They should be positioned so that they’re pulling the weight from your back and onto your hips – adjust them accordingly until you find a comfortable position.
Sternum Strap
The last step is to adjust the sternum strap. This strap should be positioned so that it rests comfortably on your chest – you should be able to easily move your arms up and down without feeling any restriction from the strap. Once you’ve adjusted the sternum strap, you have completed measuring your backpack torso length! Now all that’s left to do is find a pack with the right fit for you and get out there and enjoy exploring!
Finally, remember to always double-check measurements before making a purchase online or in stores. A good fit means a better experience – happy trails!
Fit Adjustment on the Trail
Once you have your torso length, it’s time to get out on the trail and adjust your backpack for a proper fit. It is crucial that you take the necessary time to properly adjust all of your straps and buckles for the best comfort while carrying a heavy load. Make sure that the shoulder straps are snug but not too tight, so the weight is distributed evenly across your shoulders and back instead of pulled down into one area. Also make sure that both hip belts are adjusted correctly; they should be tight enough to support the load without causing chafing or pinching in any way. The sternum strap can also help with this by lifting some weight off of your shoulders. Lastly, play around with the frame size if there’s an option, as a longer frame length may be more comfortable if you have a larger torso. [2]
Once you’ve adjusted all the straps, it’s time to hit the trail and get a feel for how your backpack fits on you. If any parts are digging into your body or rubbing against your skin in an uncomfortable way, make sure to readjust them right away so that you can stay pain-free while hiking. With a few tweaks here and there, soon enough you’ll have found the perfect fit for your backpack!
Additional Tips
When measuring the torso length of a backpack, it’s important to consider factors like body type and the type of pack you’re using. Here are some additional tips for getting the most accurate measurement:
- Make sure your posture is correct so that you can accurately measure your torso length.
- Wear clothing that won’t add extra bulk or skew the measurements.
- If possible, have someone else help with the measuring process to ensure accuracy.
- Measure from your C7 vertebrae (the knob at the base of your neck) to the top of your hip bone (the point where all three pelvic bones meet).
- Once you’ve got your desired measurements, double check them before purchasing a pack.
- Be sure to consider the weight of the backpack and its capacity when measuring, as this will determine how comfortable it is to wear for extended periods of time.
By following these tips you can be confident that you’ll get the right fit for your body type and activity level!
FAQ
How do I measure my torso for a backpack?
Measuring your torso for a backpack is an important part of finding the right fit. It’s easy to do, and all you need is a tape measure!
First, find the bony prominences on either side of your spine – these are usually located at the same level as your armpits. Then, use the tape measure to wrap it around your torso in an ‘S’ shape, passing over both bony prominences on each side. This measurement will give you your torso length in inches or centimeters.
It’s important to note that this measurement should be taken from the lower edge of one shoulder blade down to the top edge of the other – from top to bottom rather than across your back. This will give you the most accurate measurement and ensure that your backpack fits you properly.
You can also use a helper for this process, as it is much easier to get an accurate measurement with someone else’s help. Have them hold the tape measure in place while you turn around so that they can read off your torso length accurately.
Once you have your torso length, be sure to check the measurements of any potential packs against it – most manufacturers provide these details on their product pages or in-store information. That way, you can make sure that you’re investing in a pack that suits your body shape and size perfectly! [3]
How do you measure the back length of a backpack?
Measuring the back length of a backpack is easy and can help you make sure you’re buying the right size. To measure, you’ll need a flexible tape measure or ruler:
- Put on the backpack as if you were going to wear it. The shoulder straps should be adjusted snugly against your shoulders.
- Measure from the top of your shoulder down along your spine to the point where the bottom of your hips meet your torso – this measurement is your torso length. Make sure that you are wearing any layers (like clothing or jackets) that you would normally wear when using a backpack so that the measurement is accurate.
- Once you have measured, refer to the backpack manufacturer’s sizing chart to determine which size of backpack you should buy. [4]
Knowing your torso length is essential for ensuring that you get a backpack with the right fit. If it’s too small, you could be uncomfortable when carrying heavier items; if it’s too large, it won’t provide as much support and stability when on your back. So make sure to measure carefully before buying.
How do I measure the size of a backpack?
Measuring the size of a backpack is an important step in choosing the right one for you. To do this, you will need to measure your torso length and match it with the recommended torso measurements associated with different backpack sizes.
First, start by finding the bony point at the base of your neck (also known as your C7 vertebrae). You can find this by tilting your head forward and feeling for a hard bone protrusion that forms a bump at the top of your spine. Next, find the top of your hipbone (known as your iliac crest). This should be easy to locate: just follow where the waistline of your pants ends.
Once you have located both points, measure the distance between them. This is your torso length. When measuring, make sure the measuring tape remains parallel to the ground and lies flat against your body.
Now that you have your measurements, compare them with sizing charts or the manufacturer’s recommendations for choosing a backpack size. Keep in mind that some backpacks are designed for women and others for men, so be sure to look at the correct chart when making your selection.
When in doubt, it’s always best to go with a larger size if possible since this will give you more room to adjust the straps and add layers of clothing as needed. And don’t forget to always try on different sizes before buying!
What is a normal torso length?
The average torso length for adults is between 17 inches and 20 inches. This measurement is taken from the base of your neck to the top of your hip bones. To get an accurate reading, it’s important to measure correctly and use a flexible tape measure. It’s also important to note that each individual’s torso length can vary based on body type, height, and other factors. [5]
Useful Video: HOW TO FIT A BACKPACK AND HOW TO MEASURE TORSO SIZE | EXPERT ADVICE
Conclusion
Measuring your torso length is not difficult and can be done in a few easy steps. By following these instructions, you will be sure to find the perfect backpack for your body shape and size! Remember that backpacks come in different sizes depending on the manufacturer, so always check with them before you make a purchase to ensure that you are getting the right size for you. With the correct measurements of your torso length, you will be able to select a backpack that fits comfortably and securely on your body.
Finally, don’t forget about safety when it comes to carrying heavy items in your backpack – always use proper lifting techniques and wear appropriate clothing to help support your back while carrying it around. Good luck!
References:
- https://blog.tortugabackpacks.com/how-to-measure-torso/
- https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/backpacks-adjusting-fit.html
- https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Your-Torso
- https://www.livefortheoutdoors.com/hiking/advice/how-to-measure-back-length/
- https://www.whitemountain.com.au/backpack-fitting/backpack-fitting-measure-torso-length.html