What is the Futura 24 SL?
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.
The Futura is focused on breathability. If you've ever had the uncomfortable sensation of wondering whether your bladder has leaked, to find it's just a build up of sweat and stickiness, then the Futura should be first on your wishlist. This particular model features a female-specific set of features to allow a more comfortable experience. The shoulder straps are narrower, the overall length is shorter and the hipbelt has been adapted to better fit the female hips.
What is the Futura made of?
The Futura is made using a 210 denier PA Ripstop/600 PES which is abrasion resistant and incredibly durable - meaning this pack will serve you well for a very long time.
What is the back system?
Deuter created the first ever mesh ventilated backsystem, and to say it's only changed a little is a slight understatement. The Futura features Deuter's AirComfort system, the go-to choice for carrying a low to medium amount of weight for long durations, often in hot climates. A lightweight steel frame suspends a mesh panel over your entire back, allowing the pack itself to sit around an inch away, leaving a tunnel of air to pass between your back and the pack. Although this is heavier than super-lightweight options, you won't lose half your body weight in sweat if you're in a hot environment.
This super breathable technology doesn't stop at the backsystem; a mesh-lined hipbelt (or hip fin, as Deuter like to call them) takes the majority of the weight comfortably and effectively, increasing comfort and decreasing the weight that is placed on your lower back. Mesh cut-outs are also included to aid flexibility and moisture management. Lumbar pads add further comfort if the pack is fully loaded.
What are the features?
No techy pack would be complete without a series of clever pockets. The Futura has two mesh external pockets for drinks or spare layers, two zipped pockets on the hipbelt straps for quick to access items such as a small camera, keys or snacks, a sleeve for a hydration bladder, an internal valuables pocket, a separate bottom compartment for a small sleeping bags or waterproof, a lid pocket and a wet gear compartment (especially useful for that tactical sock change mid-walk). Other useful features include a walking pole attachment system, a detachable rain cover, a chest strap which is adjustable vertically and horizontally and a pivoting shoulder harness system to increase comfort even further.
Summary
The Futura is one of the most breathable and comfortable packs for mid-weight walking, trekking and travel use. The exceptionally breathable back system, rotating shoulder harness and ventilated hipbelt make it a brilliant option for anyone craving a little more ventilation and comfort.
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Womens specific
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Ventilated hip fins
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Reflective logo print
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Suspended back system
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Hydration sleeve
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Zippered pockets on hip fins
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Wet gear compartment
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Internal valuables pocket
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Adjustable chest strap
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Trekking 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.