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The pack and what goes in it

Torso length

The distance from the bony bump at the base of the neck to the top of the hip bones. It, not your height, decides what size pack fits — which is why two people of the same height can need different frames.

Fitting the pack →

Related terms

Hip beltThe padded belt that transfers weight from the shoulders onto the pelvis.
Load liftersThe short straps running from the top of the shoulder straps back to the frame, ideally at about 45 degrees.
Frame sheetA stiff panel inside the back of a pack. It stops the bag collapsing around its contents and gives the hip belt something rigid to transfer weight through.

Where it comes up

Guides that use this term in context, rather than only defining it.

Weighted vest or backpack for rucking?A vest keeps compact weight close; a backpack carries useful things and teaches pack craft. Choose by the job, not by which one looks more serious.
How to fit and adjust a rucksack under loadPack shape first, straps second: set the torso and hip belt, settle the load, then make five small adjustments in the right order.

More from The pack and what goes in it

RuckRuck plateSternum strapHip beltLoad liftersFrame sheetMOLLEBladderCentre of gravityBergenWeighted vestPlate carrierCompression strapBack panelDenierDry bag

All 69 terms