Deuter began in 1898, constructing postage bags and mail sacks to the Royal Bavarian post office. Since then, they've progressed (just a little) to making some of the finest packs money can buy. From the first ventilated mesh back system, to the invention of the functioning bike backpack, Deuter have been progressing since the birth of the backpack.
Starting with the backsystem itself, Deuter have always done things differently. They were the first recognised brand to use a suspended mesh rather than the traditional foam, and they've built on that to this day. A lightweight, flexible steel frame suspends a sheet of mesh around an inch away from the pack, this allows air to freely pass behind, cooling you down and preventing sweat build up. This is also pre-curved to distribute the weight better (after all, your back isn't straight) and fully adjustable to fit a wide range of heights.
This intelligent design carries it's way down to the hipbelt, using another layer of mesh which is split into two halves to increase flexibility and breathability. These straps (or fins as Deuter like to call them) take around 70% of the weight off your back and pass it through your legs. Behind the mesh is a thick layer of foam which will mould to the shape of your hips after a little usage, providing the most comfortable and secure fit possible. Other adjustments include a chest strap which can be adjusted vertically as well as horizontally and several compression straps to bring the weight closer to your back.
No technical pack is complete without a series of clever pockets. The Futura Vario features a spacious lid pocket for quick to access items such as a map or layers (this lid is also extendable to allow extra room), a compartment at the bottom of the pack for a sleeping bag or other heavy items, two zipped hipbelt pockets for a phone, keys or snacks, a hydration sleeve, side bellow pockets for drinks bottles and a wet gear compartment (especially useful for that tactical mid-walk sock change). If you need any more organisation, walking poles and walking axes can be fastened to the outside with provided loops, a rain cover is stored away and can be detached if needed and access to the bag can be carried out either through the top or via a large U shaped zip on the front of the bag.
-
Lightweight, flexible steel frame
-
Breathable backsystem
-
Adjustable length
-
Self-adjusting shoulder straps
-
Mesh, self-moulding hipbelt
-
Plenty of useful pockets
-
Included raincover
-
Walking pole attachment
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.