Fjallraven have always been devoted to acting responsibly towards the environment, people and animals whilst still creating outdoor gear that will perform brilliantly in modern life. The Kajka is a perfect representation of this, with a tough polyester and vinylon fabric and a birch wood frame, this pack is about as classic as it gets whist also being 10% more environmentally friendly.
Starting with the frame itself, Fjallraven decided that an aluminium frame was outdated and heavy, quite right. However, a wooden frame constructed from birch wood slashes climate emissions by 90%. Back when the pioneers of pack making started using wooden frames, the argument was that it's strength to weight ratio wasn't that impressive, and so the plastic framed packs began to arrive. Modern advancements have meant Fjallraven can achieve the same strength and functionality as aluminium with birch wood, meaning it's more environmentally friendly and just as durable, win win!
An ergonomic and supportive hip belt features a soft, comfortable and breathable mesh and is pre-curved to follow the shape of your waist. On the outside of each hip belt strap is a pocket, ideal for keys, a phone or snacks. One pocket is constructed from a stretchy mesh and the other from the same durable polyester as the pack itself.
Adjusting the Kajka is a easy and straightforward job, simply lift the adjustment flap and pull the strap to change the length of the back system. The width of the shoulders can also be adjusted in three different positions, solving the issue of relying solely on the chest strap to keep the pack comfortable. The combination of these adjustments customises the pack perfectly to your back, leaving you with more time to enjoy the surroundings rather than fiddling with a frustrating pack that doesn't fit.
The Kajka has a classic top lid with ample storage to stash food, a map or compass and other small items for quick access. Two pockets are included in the top lid, one with a key holder built inside and the other empty. This whole section of the bag can also be removed to act as a chest or hip bag. Simply unclip the top lid, link up the straps to make a shoulder strap and you have a compact urban bag to use while travelling or commuting. Whether the top lid is attached or detached; you can also attach a jacket or sleeping pad to the top via elasticated straps. This lid can also be extended upwards to accommodate extra kit.
Two simple velcro straps are positioned on the front of the pack to allow the attachment of walking poles or ice axes, while compression straps lie at the top and bottom of the pack along the sides to pull the weight closer to your back. Instead of traditionally stitching the compression straps to the bag itself, Fjallraven attach the straps to poles which run down the front of the pack. Not only is this more durable, but means the two straps either side of the pack can be positioned further apart without losing their function. Having the straps further apart also means access to pockets is improved.
The main compartment of the Kajka can be separated into two sections, one for your main bulk of kit, and the other for either wet or dry kit. An internal mesh pocket allows you to store dirty clothes separate from clean ones. Two zips run down the entire front of the pack to cast a view into the main compartment of the pack without having to empty all the contents.
At first, the Kajka looks suspiciously outdated and strangely styled, however dive deeper into Fjallraven's creation and you'll find far more than you bargained for.
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Elastic straps on the top lid
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Detachable, adjustable top lid
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Hydration compatible
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Perfect Fit adjustment system
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Built in rain cover
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Birch wood frame
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Breathable pre-curved hip belt
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Front opening
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Hypalon reinforcements
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Large side pockets
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Loops to attach poles, ice axes and equipment
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Compression poles increase functionality over standard compression straps
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Compartment at the bottom of the pack to separate wet and dry kit
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90% less emissions with the wooden frame
Getting the correct fit for your rucksack is as important as getting the fit right for your boots. A badly fitting pack can inflict misery and discomfort and completely ruin your adventure. This guide is designed to help you get the best fit and comfort from your chosen pack so that carrying all your kit becomes a pleasure and not a chore.
ADJUSTING THE BACK LENGTH
If the pack has an adjustable back length, adjust this to your correct level. Your back length is not related to your height but your torso length. Many packs, and specifically the bigger and more technical packs are available in different back lengths or feature adjustable back systems. Contrary to popular belief, your torso length and not your overall height is the key to getting a well fitted pack. Tall people don’t necessarily have long torsos, just as shorter people don’t always have a short torso length.
Your torso length can be found by measuring from your C7 vertebra (the bony protrusion at the back of your neck when looking down) to the height of your iliac crest (top of your hip bones, where you put your hands on your hips). This measurement will give you an idea of which pack back length to choose.
Once you've got the back length sorted, either by selecting the correct size pack or adjusting the back system, you can begin to follow these simple steps to help achieve a comfortable carry.
LOOSEN OFF ALL STRAPS
Before you start fitting the pack, loosen off all the straps as this will make it easier to get the correct tension later.
TIGHTENING THE HIPBELT
Fasten the backpack hipbelt, the general position is the same as where you’d put your ‘hands on hips’ This area is called the pelvic girdle, and what you can feel when you rest your hand on the area is the bony protuberance, the iliac crest. The iliac crest can support the weight from a pack comfortably, and for sustained periods. The padded section of the hipbelt should encompass this and fit securely.
Tighten the straps so the hipbelt feels secure and held firmly around your body. Ensure that the lumbar pad is centered to your lower back to give you maximum support. Remember that your hips carry most of the weight of the pack, so this should be firm but comfortable.
ADJUSTING THE SHOULDER STRAPS
Next, adjust the shoulder straps, pull them until they start to become snug, but ensure that they are not too tight as to lift the pack off your hips. Remember tightening them will stabilise the pack but will increase pressure over the shoulders. If the back length of the pack is correct the shoulder straps will be flush to your shoulders whilst the hipbelt sits in place comfortably. The point where the shoulder straps attach to the main body of the pack should be roughly half way down your shoulder blades; this ensures that the shoulder straps rolls evenly over the top of your shoulders to distribute the weight correctly.
FASTENING THE CHEST STRAP
Fasten the chest strap and pull until taut but not tight, the elastic section should not be extended. This helps keep the shoulder straps from catching in your shoulder joints and keeps the stability of the pack when moving over rough ground.
ADJUSTING THE TOP TENSIONERS
Top tensioner straps link the shoulder straps to the top of the pack. When tightened, their main function is to stabilise the top part of the pack. The optimum angle for these straps in 45º, but they will stabilise the load even when horizontal or at a more obtuse angle. Tighten them until you feel the top part of the pack rest against your pack, over tightening them will create excessive pressure on the front of your shoulders.
ADJUSTING THE SIDE TENSIONERS
Side tension straps are linked to the hipbelt. By tightening these straps you can stabilise the load but reduce the hipbelt flexibility. Where balance is critical tightening them can help you feel more secure. However, if you are striding out over easy terrain it’s better to loosen these straps to allow full hip flexibility.
ADJUSTING THE SIDE COMPRESSION STRAPS
Side compression straps come next, pulling these tight does two things: firstly, it stabilises the load, secondly it can lift the lower part of the pack, repositioning the load closer to your back.
ADJUSTMENTS ON THE GO
Following these steps should give you a comfortable but secure fit on your pack. Sometimes adjustments will need to be made on the go depending on the terrain or the load you are carrying. The perfect fit is very much a personal preference so experiment with different tensions on the pack to find what suits you best.