Choosing the right backpack size is crucial for comfort and support, especially for activities like hiking or traveling. The key to finding a well-fitting backpack lies in measuring your torso length accurately. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you measure your torso for a backpack.
What Will You Need?
The torso length, not your overall height, is the critical factor in selecting a backpack. A correctly sized backpack will distribute weight evenly, reduce strain, and increase comfort during use.
- A flexible measuring tape
- A friend to assist (optional but helpful)
- A mirror (optional but helpful)
- A marker or pencil (optional)
Steps to Measure Your Torso
1. Find Your C7 Vertebra
- Locate the C7 Vertebra: Tilt your head forward. The bony bump at the base of your neck is the C7 vertebra.
- Mark the Spot: If you’re measuring alone, mark this spot with a pencil or ask a friend to help.
2. Identify the Iliac Crest
- Find the Iliac Crest: Place your hands on your hips with your thumbs pointing towards your back. The top of your hip bones is the iliac crest.
- Form an Imaginary Line: Draw an imaginary line between the tops of your iliac crests. This line should cross your spine.
3. Measure the Torso Length
- Position the Measuring Tape: Starting at the C7 vertebra, run the measuring tape down your spine to the point where the imaginary line from your iliac crest crosses your spine.
- Record the Measurement: The distance between these two points is your torso length. Make sure the measuring tape follows the natural curve of your spine for an accurate measurement.
Backpack Size Guide
Once you have your torso measurement, refer to the backpack manufacturer’s size guide to choose the right size. Here’s a general guide for backpack sizes based on torso length:
- Extra Small: Torso length up to 15 inches (38 cm)
- Small: Torso length 16-17 inches (40-43 cm)
- Medium/Regular: Torso length 18-19 inches (45-48 cm)
- Large: Torso length 20 inches and above (51 cm+)
Adjusting Your Backpack
Even after selecting the correct size, adjusting your backpack properly is essential for optimal comfort. Follow these steps to adjust your backpack:
- Loosen All Straps: Start with all straps (shoulder, hip belt, load lifters, and sternum strap) loosened.
- Position the Hip Belt: Place the center of the hip belt over your hip bones and tighten it securely.
- Adjust the Shoulder Straps: Pull the shoulder straps snug but not too tight, ensuring they wrap comfortably around your shoulders.
- Tighten the Load Lifters: Adjust the load lifter straps (typically at a 45-degree angle) to bring the backpack closer to your body.
- Secure the Sternum Strap: Clip and adjust the sternum strap across your chest for additional stability.
Final Tips
- Try Before You Buy: If possible, try on backpacks with weights in them at the store to ensure a good fit.
- Seek Expert Advice: Many outdoor and sporting goods stores offer backpack fitting services with trained staff.
- Recheck Fit Regularly: Regularly recheck the fit of your backpack, especially if you’re carrying different loads or wearing varying layers of clothing.
By following these steps to measure your torso and properly adjust your backpack, you’ll ensure a comfortable and supportive fit for all your adventures.
