If The Pack Fits…
From my Instagram post in September 2020.
trail hack: fitted for the pack edition 🎒 all about a girl and her quest to find her pack match.
As some of you may have seen in my story, I mentioned I recently got fitted for a pack. It was sort of an accident as I wandered into my local REI store (Carle Place, NY) to browse for what I was looking for, since both existing packs I owned were uncomfortable and either too small or too large for the hikes I was completing.
One of the employees approached me as I started looking in the backpack section and when she asked if I needed help, I said YES! 🆘
She asked if I had ever been measured for one and of course I said no- I had heard about this before, but never specifically went to a store for this. She measured me and we talked about what I was looking for. She came back with the Osprey Sirrus and fitted it to my body (adjusting the straps, etc.) while talking me through all the features (this one comes with a rain cover.) Many often come with hydration bladders or other features, so it’s really up to you what your “must haves” are for your pack. Or if you don’t know, the staff will tell you about different features and pack types- so don’t worry if you go in without a set game plan!
I immediately felt like this was “the one” 🥰🎒so walked out a happy camper and eager to try it out on the trail.
After testing it out on a 13 mile hike this past weekend (the Tongue Range to be exact), I can safely say I felt like a brand new hiker and experienced ZERO pain on any part of my back or body.
So in short, this experience and purchase has been a game changer for me and I highly recommend so you can hike comfortably!
As someone who works in the corporate retail industry, employees and managers are empowered with knowledge and usually more than willing to educate and assist you, so do not fear asking them for help or advice! Of course it is ultimately up to you what you purchase and what feels best for your body and wallet, so I encourage you to read the return policies whichever brand you do buy.
In addition to REI, I am confident local gear stores would be more than happy to assist you and fit you for one. The two other outfitters I’ve personally been to and shopped at is Eastern Mountain Sports (in Lake Placid/Saratoga area) and Paragon Sports (NYC.)
As always, please add your feedback or write in your favorite brands (or local stores!) below.
