Evaluate how well a Backpack meets your needs and compares to competing products
If you've completed step one you've identified what you need in a backpack and you've learned about the different features of backpacks. While you were doing your research, you probably started the process of determining which features - and thus which type of backpack - will best meet your needs. Now you are going to continue that process, but in greater detail.
In this step you will
evaluate the backpacks available on the market to determine how well they meet your personal needs and establish, by a process of elimination, an initial short-list of contenders. Then you will compare these short-listed backpacks to find out which ones stand out from the competition.
Evaluate how well a Backpack meets your needs
Your priority at this point in your evaluation is to find the available backpacks in the market that best meet your needs. You can save a lot of time during this activity by quickly eliminating any backpacks that are unsuitable because they don't meet your key requirements. For example, if you have a limited budget for this purchase then you can ignore any backpacks that clearly exceed your price limit.
The first thing to consider when purchasing a backpack is the size of the individual who will be using it. Backpacks are designed in various sizes to match different body frames. The size you will need is determined by measuring your torso length. This is the length between the 7th vertebrae (at the base of your neck) to your natural waistline.
After you have obtained your torso measurements, decide how your backpack will be used and what capacity you will need and determine if you would prefer an external or internal frame. External frames are best suited for heavier loads and are easier to use on open and even trails. This type of pack distributes the weight evenly over your body's centre of gravity.
Internal frames are better on uneven trails of greater difficulty. They add to the hiker's agility because there are no external extensions to the pack. While the external frame pack provides space between the hiker and the load, an internal frame holds the unit closer to the body, which allows for greater mobility and movement. This type of pack also has a narrower profile than the external model
Tip: If you plan to venture off the marked trails into the backcountry, an internal frame pack is a better choice. While external frames are less costly, their construction makes them more likely to get caught and snagged on branches and brush in narrow or non-marked trails.
After you choose the backpack size that corresponds with the length of your torso, be sure that the shoulder straps are a good fit. They should anchor the pack to your body just below the top of your shoulders and should fit snugly but not too tight. The bottom of the strap should be about five or six inches below your armpit and should not ride up or pinch.
The hip belt comes in both a straight and curve design to accommodate both wide and narrow hips. It should rest comfortably on your hips, however the pads should not touch in front. A quality hip belt will cup the hipbones and will have progressive compression. Load stabilizer straps run from the hip belt to the pack. These should be tightened so that the pack is brought close to the lumbar or lower back region. This lower portion of the pack should rest comfortably across your back and should not bounce or rub.
Tip: While soft foam might feel comfortable when you try a pack in the store, it will not offer the support needed on the trail. Conversely, a strap that is too firm could cause bruising and great discomfort. The best option is a moderately firm design.
If you will be using your pack for day trips only, consider the smaller daypack version. This type of pack is designed for light loads and does not normally have the hip straps typical in the larger capacity packs. These backpacks come in a variety of design types and are sometimes created with a specific sport or use in mind. For skiers some daypacks include hooks or loops to carry skis or snowboards, while packs for biking have large compartments to accommodate helmets and other biking gear.
Tip: Most daypacks have a capacity of 2,500 cubic inches or less. If you will be hauling additional gear or plan on a longer trip, choose a more suitable higher capacity model. An overstuffed daypack is not designed to hold large amounts of weight and will not perform well.
If budget is a major consideration, you will have to weigh quality and durability versus what features you may or may not really need. If you want an internal frame backpack made of rip-stop nylon, be prepared to pay a higher price. Backpacks made of higher quality materials and components will cost you more, but the price you pay now will ensure a longer-lasting and durable product.
When you were considering your requirements in a backpack it's likely that you singled out certain factors such as capacity, fit, materials, frame type and cost as being of major significance. As with so many other products, the more features offered, the higher the price.
Buyz123 has created a checklist containing examples of major features; you can work from this checklist when evaluating how well various backpacks meet your personal needs:
Features Checklist
Backpack Styles
- Internal / External frame
Usage Considerations
- Waist / Hip / Lumbar / Fanny
- Day packs - light loads, short distances
- Sport specific - skiing, inline skating, snowboarding, cycling
- Hydration - built in water reservoir with drinking hose
- Midsize packs
- Expedition packs - designed for mountain climbing
Material Considerations
- Cordura nylon
- Ballistics nylon
- Rip-stop nylon
- Pack cloth
- Durable / water resistant / abrasion resistant
- Back stitching / bar tacking
- Back panels - reticulated / pressure moulded foam
- Wicking fabric
Fitting Considerations
- Torso length - < 17 inches (small), 17 to 20 inches (medium), 20 inches plus (large)
- Standard hip belt - straight / narrow hips
- Women hip belt - curved hips
- Shoulder straps - below 7th vertebra, 5 inches below armpit
Day Pack Considerations
- 500 to 2,500 cubic inches capacity
- Outside pockets
- Easy access pockets
- Daisy chain - webbing for external storage or lashing points
- External bungee cord - attaching coat to outside of pack
Sport Specific Pack Considerations
- Backcountry skiing - ski straps / loops
- Inline skating - skate cargo bag / external loops/ straps/ protective gear storage
- Bicycling - lower on back / helmet storage / outside storage
Hydration Pack Considerations
- Bladder reservoir - 1 to 3 litres / insulated / wide mouth
- Moisture wicking fabric - shoulder straps / back panel
- Reflective trim
- Sculpted shoulder harness
Backpack Weight
Capacity
- 500 to 7,000 cubic inches
- 5 to 33 lbs
Warranty
- 90 days - 2 years limited
Other considerations
- Top loading / bottom loading
- Ice axe / shovel
- Crampon holder
- Shovel pocket
- Separate bottom access
- Floating top lid
- Sleeping bag divider
- Water proof zippers
- Folding chair
- Snowboard
There are a lot of features listed here, and some of them may not be relevant to your particular requirements. So, work your way through the list and assess how each of these features impact on your backpack needs. You can then create a personalized checklist of the features you really require in a backpack.
Once you have finished evaluating the backpacks available for sale in the light of your personal needs and arrived at a short-list of 'possibles' you are ready to progress to the next stage. This involves comparing the backpacks one-on-one in order to find those that really stand out.
Evaluate how well a Backpack compares with competing Backpacks
Comparing the items on your interim short-list, one to another, is an important part of the purchasing process - we all want to buy the best product we possibly can. So once you have established a short-list of backpacks that meet your needs it is time to evaluate how well they compare in fine detail. This way you can assemble a select list of backpacks that stand out from the crowd.
Questions to ask yourself:
Which backpack on my short-list offers value for money?
Which of the backpacks has the best warranty?
Which backpack do I like best?
Which of these backpacks is the most comfortable fit?
Which backpack seems of the highest quality?
Which of my short-listed backpacks has the best features?
Which backpack is the best suited to my needs?
By answering these simple questions, you are actually eliminating backpacks that aren't absolutely right for you. This is an excellent time - if you haven't done so already - to evaluate how well your short listed products measure up in the following areas: Physical Quality, Warranty Conditions and Accessories & Extras.
Physical Quality
Regardless of the method you use when purchasing the backpack, you need to find an opportunity to examine the product to evaluate how well it is made, and to check that it is truly suitable for you and your purpose. This is the time to examine the quality of the materials, and how well the backpack is put together. Check the assembly - is the backpack solidly constructed? Is the stitching firm and of a suitable thread? It's also important to examine the backpack from the perspective of ease of use. How easily is it prepared for cleaning and maintenance? Are the pockets or zippers easy to use? Make sure the backpack fits you physically, and that it is manageable - some packs look great on paper, but unexpected problems will show up when you finally get your hands on them.
Physical Inspection Checklist:
- Materials - quality, appearance
- Assembly - all parts held together securely, good quality fittings
- Solidly constructed - stable, no loose components
- Proper fit of removable parts - easy to remove and replace, fit snugly
- Size - appropriate for surroundings and purpose - fits user correctly
- Appearance - well finished, appropriate color, neat fittings etc
- Easy and comfortable to use
Warranty Conditions
Similar products may be available with significantly different terms and conditions, and you want to get the best deal you can. Parts and labor are often covered under separate warranties, for different time periods; sometimes there can be a significant difference in the warranty offered with one model compared to that offered with the next model up. It is particularly important to investigate any conditions that might void a warranty, check the fine print.
Warranty Checklist:
- Duration - check the specifics
- Parts, Labour, Mechanical
- Exactly what is covered
- Exactly what is excluded
- Conditions or actions that may void the warranty
Accessories and Extras
When evaluating similar products, it is a good idea to include accessories in your assessment. You need to be clear about exactly what accessories are necessary to utilise the product to its full capacity, and whether these are included with the purchase. Does the backpack come with a water canteen or any other extras, for instance?
Accessories Checklist:
- Accessories - included or extra cost
- What else will you need to fully utilize this product?
Once you've worked through the Evaluation step you will have a final short-list of backpacks that meet your needs and stand out from competing products on the market. It's time then to move on to the third and final step: Purchase.
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