Choosing the correct backpack size

A good fitting backpack can make all the difference in your backcountry adventure. If your backpack is too small, it won't rest enough on your hips. If it's too big, the top of the pack could hit the back of your head or it will flop around on your shoulders. Either way, an ill-fitting backpack will not distribute weight properly and could make for a less than enjoyable backpacking experience.

A good fitting pack, on the other hand, helps you carry your load evenly and securely, so you can focus on the adventure at hand and not on your aching back.

Almost all Deuter Backpacks have adjustable harness systems so as long as the pack itself is generally a match for your frame, one size will truly fit all. Adjustable frame systems are also great for families who may share their backpacks.

Many Osprey Backpacks and Gregory Backpacks have specific backpack sizes. The information below should help you to measure yourself to get the right size.

FIRST, MEASURE YOUR TORSO
To find your torso length, have a friend measure your back along the spine (as shown in the illustration) from the level of your iliac crest (the top of your hipbones) to your C7 (the knobby bone at the base of your neck). (see photo above)

THEN, Check the lists below to find the correct size of the pack you have chosen:

OSPREY ARGON/XENON SERIES BACKPACK FRAME SIZES:

• XS: <16" / 41 cm
• S: 16"-18.5" / 41-47 cm
• M: 18"-20".5 / 46-52 cm
• L: 20"-22.5" / 51-57 cm
• XL: >22" / 56 cm

OSPREY AETHER/ARIEL/KODE/MUTANT/VARIANT SERIES BACKPACK FRAME SIZES:

• S: <18.5" / 47 cm
• M: 18"-20".5 / 46-52 cm
• L: >20" / 51 cm

OSPREY RAPTOR SERIES BACKPACK FRAME SIZES:

• S/M: <19" / 48.5 cm
• M/L: >19" / 48.5 cm

GREGORY BACKPACK FRAME SIZES:

• XS: 14"-16" / 35-39 cm
• S: 16"-18" / 40-44 cm
• M: 18"-20" / 45-49 cm
• L: 20"-22" / 50-54 cm

GO-LITE BACKPACK FRAME SIZES:

• Mens Large: 19.5" - 21.5"
• Mens Medium: 17.5" - 19.5"
• Womens Large: 17.5" - 19.5"
• Womens Medium: 15.5" - 17.5"
• Unisex Large: 19.5" - 21.5"
• Unisex Medium: 17.5" - 19.5"
• Unisex Large: 15.5" - 17.5"