A backpack is not a backpack is not a backpack. Long gone are the days of Dad’s canvas rucksack strung between an aluminum frame that rode like something akin to bedsprings and a belt. These days, the best pack makers have packs for every adventure with custom-fitting options that distribute weight evenly.
Witness Osprey Packs, a longtime leader in pack technology. Osprey’s heavy hitters, the Crescent for men and ladies’ Luna packs – both cost about $349 for the larger sizes – have heat-molded hip belts that form to fit the carrier’s curves. Osprey sellers are trained to toss the hip belts in special ovens – like those used by custom foot bed molders – that form the belts to the hips of the wearer. It’s pretty cutting-edge. Osprey technology also includes zippered side access, easy-to-pinch D-ring zippers and nifty hydration systems featuring sleeves that can double as simple hydration packs for those side hikes.
Get it: Check ’em out at
www.ospreypacks.com or at Mountain Miser, 209 W. Hampden Ave. in Englewood.
