The Tupilak pack is arguably one of Mountain Equipment's finest achievements. Extensive testing, developing and researching has been carried out to ensure the pack meets the highest demands of alpinists and mountaineers all over the world. The smallest of details such as the fabric in one particular area, to calculating the volume of the pack have been analysed to ensure comfort, durability and versatility throughout it's use.
The outer fabric is made from M.E's PACT fabric. Over the course of three years, this fabric has been developed with two separate companies to ensure the highest possible strength to weight ratio, reducing the weight of the bag and increasing the abrasion resistance substantially. PACT is made from a double ripstop nylon with a durable water repellant coating added to the outer to repel water and snow. The inner of the pack is then made from an air and water impermeable TPU fabric; these two materials provide the near perfect balance of durability, low weight and weather resistance.
Speaking of light weight, the Tupilak is able to shed various features to reduce the weight even further, 570g, to be precise. The sternum strap, hipbelt, ice axe toggles, compression straps, accessory straps, back panel and shaft tethers can all be removed to rid 210g of extra weight. Sure, it doesn't sound like a lot, but for the few who are on their absolute limit, it can make all the difference. Not only are all these accessories removeable, but also replaceable if you do ever happen to damage them (which we highly doubt you will!).
When it comes to actually carrying the weight, you wouldn't expect anything less than painstakingly obsessive compulsive perfection. The difference between an 'alright' climbing/alpine pack and a great one largely falls down to the balance of the pack itself; if a pack is unbalanced, it won't just slow you down but will inhibit your ability to climb altogether. Every one of M.E's packs are marginally wider at the top and the base, this increases load stability and makes it far easier to stuff gear in. At the same time the main body is slightly tapered to allow the pack to stand up of it's own accord.
Carrying comfort is the next factor to which an alpine pack has to excel. The back panel is constructed from a 7mm thick EVA foam; this is exceptionally resilient and can be removed to shed weight. The shoulder straps use a slightly thinner 5mm foam for comfort and light weight, while a thermo-moulded EVA hipbelt makes hauling heavy loads that much easier. As with the back panel, this can be removed to suit your preferences.
Moving onto pockets, it's pretty simple. One 'floating' accessories pocket can be accessed from the inside or the outside, allowing you to grab essentials without unloading your pack. The main compartment is a simple 37 litre space for climbing gear, clothing and accessories. This is then covered with an internal weatherproof cowl with a roll top closure to keep your kit dry and safe. Lastly, M.E's shockcord system lashes onto the outer of the pack, securing items such as crampons or a sleeping mat.
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37 litre minimum capacity (can be overfilled)
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PACT fabrics are durable, weather resistant and lightweight
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All components removable
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Aluminium buckles
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Accessories pocket
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Side compression straps
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EVA back panel and shoulder straps
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Hipbelt (removable)
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Dual ice axe toggles w/ integrated pick pocket
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Daisy chain system and haul loops
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Shockcord system
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.