How to fit your backpack?

You have just received your new backpack, and I am sure that you can't wait to take it on its maiden voyage! Before that, it is time to fit it properly. Fitting and adjusting the pack to your body is key to epic hiking trips!.
Because our packs are different, it can take a bit longer to get the perfect fit. But we promise, it is worth it!

On our larger model packs, such as the Effortless Rhythm, there are three adjustments you may need to make: 

1. The back length
2. The U-flow shoulder harness system
3. The Pelvic-Form hip belts. 

Youmight need to adjust all three toget the perfect fit, but it's easywhen you know how! 

Before putting on your Aarn Pack, ensure you have the correct back length and hip belt size by using our size guide and instructions. 

Step 1. Loosen off all three adjustments. 

For the On-adjust back length, you pull the teal blue thin webbing at the top of the pack. Next, loosen the shoulder harness on both sides and then the dual adjust on the Pelvic-Form hip belt on each side. You can also make the hip belt longer or shorter. Check out our video "How to adjust an Aarn Pelvic-Form Hip Belt" or the blog here. 

Step 2. Put on the pack and attach the hip belt

You want to wrap the hip belt around your iliac crest - not above and not below, you want it really hugging your hips. 

Step 3. Pull down the shoulder straps

The pack should sits against your back - be careful not to over-tighten the straps though. The shoulder straps on an Aarn pack can be worn more loosely than a regular backpack, eliminating back and shoulder strain and transferring more of the load onto your hips. 

Step 4. The chest straps should sit on your sternum.

You can slide it up and down. It needs to sit high enough that the O-rings will slide freely up and down the webbing (so the shoulders bear no load from the pockets once you're wearing them).

Step 5. Adjust the back length.

By pulling the teal on-adjust back length webbing, found at the bottom of the pack, you can adjust the back length and get the perfect fit of the shoulder harness wrapping over your shoulders. 

Step 6. Adjust the load lifter.

The tighter they are, the closer the pack will be to your back, and vice versa. The pack will also feel more stable when closer to your body. 

Now, once it feels good, add your Aarn Balance pockets of choice, ensure the weight is shared around the centre of gravity, and then make any more micro adjustments you need for maximum hiking comfort. 

For more detailed instructions, have a look at our Fitting instructions page. 

Have a great time hiking!