Professor Ray Lloyd pioneered the research into Balance Packs; naturally balanced load carrying systems. His research compared a backpack to an Aarn U Flow Balance Pack. The results were striking and statistically, highly significant. Forward lean, energy consumption and body discomfort were significantly reduced. The many benefits of the system are detailed in the research findings shown in the charts below.

The amount of forward lean with a Balance Pack is determined by the relative volume of the pack on the back of the wearer and the Balance Pockets in front of the wearer, and the relative density of the items placed in each. By using the largest volume Balance pockets with a small to medium volume pack, and packing your heavier items as far forward and as low down as possible, it is possible to create a naturally balanced load carrying system. This is where the center of gravity of your load perfectly matches the center of gravity of your body, both horizontally and vertically.

Now addition of a load will exert no leverages on your back or shoulders thereby reducing the forces acting on the body. It will not alter your natural posture or your balance and it will facilitate active body movement.                

A naturally balanced load carrying system is the most practical, efficent and strain free possible. Combined with our U Flow systems, it facilitates superb balance with the greatest body movement and load stability for dynamic rucsack sports.

When used with the most biomechanically efficient and ergonomic trekking poles, Pacerpoles, and lightweight zero drop 'barefoot' footwear, we expect to see further gains in performance and energy efficency. Future research could be used to verify the extra gains by using the most biomecanically efficient products in combination.