How to choose a sports backpack?

For sports training to bring the desired result, you need: motivation, good sports equipment and a comfortable bag. And since you are reading these lines, we hope that you are fine with the first and second, but there is a need for the third.

A sports bag is designed specifically to carry things with maximum comfort. And the market for these accessories offers a huge number of different multifunctional and even specialized bags for each type of sport. Some can be worn on the shoulder and in the hands, others on the belt, and others - just on the wrist. But we are interested in a sports backpack - the most popular type of sports bag.

A modern sports backpack is distinguished by its technological advancement and reliability. Design trends are reduced to a minimalistic and thought-out ergonomic form. The weight of the backpack is almost not felt on the shoulders. It is waterproof. The fittings are practically "indestructible". The back breathes, and the shoulder and waist straps are soft. In addition, there are many convenient sections and pockets that allow you to put everything you need for training. And the range of models is huge - you can choose a shoulder bag for any kind of sport, for any age and even taking into account personal preferences.

It would seem that everything is simple - you come, choose and buy, but in practice things are different. It can be difficult to make a choice when choosing (sorry for the tautology), especially if you are doing it for the first time. Technologies do not stand still, and what was popular 5 years ago is no longer relevant today. In addition, new design solutions appear that you may simply not know about, due to the fact that this is a specific accessory.

So, the topic of today's article is how to choose a sports backpack. We consider the following:

1. Features of the design of a sports backpack.
2. Fabric for sports backpacks - an overview of popular materials.
3. Sports backpack volume - what to focus on?
4. Straps, zipper, fittings or everything you need to know about the reliability of the fastening system.
5. How to choose the size of a sports backpack?
6. Sports backpack equipment.
7. Types of sports backpacks.

1. FEATURES OF THE STRUCTURE OF A SPORTS BACKPACK

By type of back, there are three main designs:

1. soft backpacks without a frame,
2. anatomical backpacks,
3. frame backpacks.

In this article, we will consider the first two types, because frame backpacks are highly specialized accessories. Their design provides for a welded metal frame, to which a suspension system with straps, a belt and a bag for things is attached. Therefore, they are used exclusively for carrying heavy loads.

Soft backpacks do not have a rigid frame. Such backpacks can be easily rolled up for compact transportation or storage. They acquire rigidity when things are placed inside them, and only if something flat and dense is placed under the back, for example, a folded camping mat. The size of the shoulder and waist straps of a soft backpack can be adjusted, but the size of the back strap can never be adjusted. Therefore, when buying such an accessory, carefully choose it for yourself - either the backpack suits you, or look for another one.

There are two types of anatomical sports backpacks: with an external (this is a type of frame models) and an internal frame. The latter are the most popular. The design of a backpack with an internal anatomical back uses slats - hidden plates made of aluminum, less often of polycarbonate. They hold the shape of the bag, even if it is empty. They also prevent hard things from pressing on the back.

These backpacks are called anatomical because the rigid frame follows the shape of the back. The disadvantage of such models is their greater weight compared to soft backpacks. But considering the comfort, this disadvantage can be tolerated. Almost every modern model with an anatomical back has a ventilated mesh part.

2. FABRICS FOR SPORTS BACKPACKS - REVIEW OF THE MOST POPULAR MATERIALS

There has long been a strong opinion about a modern sports backpack that it is a durable, wear-resistant and waterproof bag. And so it is. In many ways, this has become possible thanks to modern materials. And now we will present a brief overview of the most popular of them. This will help you choose the most suitable accessory option.

The following materials are used to sew sports backpacks: nylon, leather, eco-leather, canvas, cordura, polyester, oxford. But the last three are considered the most popular. We will talk about them in more detail now.

Material Polyester

A synthetic material with a PVC coating, which increases the strength and water resistance of polyester. Cotton can be added for greater softness. Polyester is used to produce any type of backpack, including sports, children's, city, and tourist backpacks. The products are lightweight and durable at the same time, and can withstand extreme cold and heat equally well. Polyester backpacks are machine and hand washable, retain their shape well and dry quickly.

Advantages: cheap, the lightest, dries quickly, does not stretch or deform, durable, waterproof, resistant to sub-zero temperatures.
Disadvantages: deforms when heated strongly.

Oxford material

Synthetic material with a special weave of fiber ("rogozhka"), which gives the fabric strength, quality, durability. Choose a backpack made of Oxford with a density of at least 400-500 den. The material is shape-stable, easy to clean and is not afraid of water. Reinforced Oxford (this is a rip-stop fabric) is resistant to external factors - friction, punctures, cuts.

Advantages: elasticity, durability, moisture resistance, affordable price.
Disadvantages: accumulates static electricity, deforms when heated strongly.

Material Cordura

Synthetic material Cordura (CORDURA®) is a registered trademark of certified nylon from INVISTA. Thick, dense, with water-repellent impregnation, 4 times stronger than regular nylon. It is used for sewing military, sports and tourist equipment. A sports backpack made of Cordura is an "indestructible" shoulder bag.

3. SPORTS BACKPACK VOLUME - WHAT TO FOCUS ON?

The main factors influencing the choice of a backpack include: the type of sports trip, the duration of the trip, the specifics of the route, the time of year and individual body characteristics. The latter refers to height. A person with a height of almost two meters and a height of 160 cm need different backpacks.

• For moving around the city and its suburbs, a sports backpack with a capacity of 13-20 liters is sufficient.
• For a one-day trip across rough terrain, choose a sports backpack with a capacity of 26-32 liters.
• If you plan to actively relax outside the city for 2-3 days, you will need a backpack with a capacity of 30-50 liters.

We have indicated approximate values. Because the volume of a backpack is not always directly proportional to the duration of a sports trip. Factors such as: are you going alone or with your family, are you planning to live in a tent or a house, are you cooking for yourself or eating in a cafe on the route, how cold it will be, and others are of great importance.

4. STRAPS, ZIPPERS, FITTINGS OR EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE RELIABILITY OF THE FASTENING SYSTEM

The next thing we pay attention to is the fastening system or suspension system. Its quality determines how conveniently the load of the backpack will be distributed on your shoulders. The suspension system consists of three main elements:

1. Shoulder straps or backpack straps.
2. Chest strap or chest compression.
3. Waist belt.

There are other elements: forehead (head) strap, upper guy ropes (adjustable stabilizing shoulder straps), lower guy ropes (adjustable stabilizing belts on the waist). But all of them are found in large-volume hiking backpacks.

Shoulder straps or straps.

The backpack straps in places where they touch the human body should be soft, but elastic and not too thin. The optimal width is 5-8 cm. The straps should have foam filling inside. The padding should be moderately hard and soft. The best existing strap shape is S-shaped or crescent-shaped.Unlike "straight" ones, they slip the least and distribute the load evenly on the back and shoulders. It is desirable that the buckles for adjusting the length of the straps are fastened from below. This will allow you to easily adjust the length of the straps when wearing a backpack. The buckles on the straps must withstand a large load. The straps can have all sorts of devices (hooks, carabiners, ties, lacing, pads, inserts, valves, zippers) for use in a variety of purposes.

Chest tie or chest tightening

The chest strap is needed to connect the straps together. It prevents them from moving apart and falling off the shoulders. This significantly increases your stability. At the same time, the chest strap compresses the chest (this can be felt when inhaling). Adjustment can partially eliminate discomfort. Be sure to pay attention to how quickly you can unfasten the buckle on the chest strap. In some cases, this can save a life.

There are 2 types of buckles: fastex and self-release (also called trident). The first is easier to fasten, and the second - to unfasten. At the same time, the fastex design is more complex, and therefore less reliable. Therefore, we recommend "self-release".

Waist belt

Most medium-sized backpacks come with a waist belt. This is a must for large-volume sports backpacks. This element accounts for up to 50% of the weight of the backpack and its contents. The waist belt relieves the shoulder girdle well and, in addition to the chest strap, fixes the backpack from vibrations.

Based on this, it should be wide (at least 10 cm) with thick (8-16 mm) soft cushions and the ability to quickly adjust the length. There are 2 options for fastening - permanent (sewn) and removable. The first is more durable, and the second is convenient in cases where the waist belt is not needed and can be unfastened. The belt should fit tightly, but the ends of its wings should not reach each other. The distance between them can be from 8 to 20 cm. The buckle on the waist belt is of the same design as on the chest strap. And the same requirements are imposed on it.

Backpack hardware and zippers

The fittings (fasteners, buckles, snap hooks, buttons) must be made of durable plastic (Duraflex or Nexus) or aluminum alloy. However, manufacturers do not always provide such information. We can only hope for the integrity of the brand.

There are two types of zippers: spiral and tractor. The former are cheaper, work well on curved sections, but are not designed for heavy loads, so they are installed inside. The latter can withstand heavy loads and work well on straight sections.

5. HOW TO CHOOSE THE SIZE OF A SPORTS BACKPACK?

Below we will tell you how to choose the length, adjust the straps and fit of the backpack. This is important for two reasons. First, choosing the right size of a sports backpack is the key to comfort. Second, you can load the shoulder bag to the maximum without losing comfort. There are three steps to follow.

STEP 1. Measure the length of the back with a tape measure.

Tilt your head forward to help you find the most prominent vertebra at the base of your neck. It's called C7. From there, pull the tape measure along your spine until you reach your iliac center. Your iliac center is the point in the center of your spine that aligns with the highest point on your pelvic bone. Convert the measurement from cm to inches (2.54 cm = 1"). This is your torso length.

STEP 2. Choose your size

Using the size chart, choose which size (XS, S, M or L) corresponds to your value in inches.

STEP 3. Trying on a sports backpack

Put on a sports backpack, having previously placed a 5-7 kg weight in it. Make sure that the top edge of the waist belt is 2.5 cm above your hip bone. At the same time, the shoulder straps should wrap around your shoulders and go down behind your back, about 8 cm below the top of your shoulders. If they are higher, take a backpack one size smaller.

6. SPORTS BACKPACK EQUIPMENT

The sports backpack equipment includes many compartments and options. Below we will list all available ones. And you, choosing a shoulder bag, focus on those that you need most in operation.

• Roomy main compartment.
• Front zippered pocket for shoes or gear.
• Back pocket with soft dividers for a racket or two rackets (tennis backpacks only).
• Side mesh pockets for water bottles.
• The top of the backpack can have a pocket for a phone or sunglasses, and on the outside - a loop for attaching a helmet (common options for cycling backpacks).
• Next to the main compartment - an additional one with an organizer for attaching small items.

• Pay attention to the compatibility of the backpack with a drinking system of 2 or more liters. Very convenient on a hike: no need to stop and take off the backpack. You can quench your thirst literally on the go. Also, no fuss with various thermos bottles.
• On the inside (from the back) there is often a zippered pocket for valuables.
• Medium and large sports backpacks often have a soft pocket for a laptop, on the back side, next to the main compartment.
• Anti-theft loops that block the zipper slider.
• Zipper sliders with holes for locks.
• USB port on the straps to charge your smartphone on the go from the power bank inside.
• In addition, sports backpacks may have specific fastenings that allow you to securely attach various equipment or tools.

7. TYPES OF SPORTS BACKPACKS

Above, we have considered the main points that you should pay attention to when choosing a sports backpack. Knowing them, you can safely go in search of a shoulder bag. But before asking the question "how much does it cost?", we suggest you figure out what kind of bag there is for different types of sports.

Classic sports backpack

Designed with the comfort of wearing sportswear and shoes in mind. Accordingly, each has its own sections. There are large and small formats, with an anatomical suspension system with a dense back and S-shaped straps.

Multi-sports backpack

This resembles a life jacket, tightly fitting to the body. As a rule, the backpack has a small volume and a large number of pockets and external hangers, allowing you to take everything you need from the shoulder bag at any time. Such backpacks are often used in orienteering.

Tennis Backpack.

A characteristic feature is a large volume with a compartment for rackets. In adult models it is designed for 2 rackets, in children's models - for one. There is a separate compartment for shoes, a middle section for sports equipment and side mesh pockets for napkins and water.

Bike backpack

There are two types: a backpack and a luggage rack. The first fits tightly to the back. It can have a removable or non-removable hard base, as well as a pocket for a bicycle helmet. The volume is either small (10 l) or medium (up to 30 l). The second one is attached to the bike rack. It resembles "pants" in shape. It can be single-section (there are no partitions inside, and the space is free right to the bottom) and three-section (respectively, three small sections).

Running backpack

In the running line, you will find options from very tiny (1.5 - 6 l) to medium (30 l). Ultra-light running backpacks have all the necessary front attachments for the trail (pockets for water, gels, phone, napkins) and a main compartment for a windbreaker. Medium models are full-fledged backpacks with a main and additional compartments.

Snowboard Backpack

It is characterized by a rectangular shape and a snowboard mount. The back and straps are necessarily anatomically shaped. There are also wide chest and waist belts. There is a pocket for quick access to the mask and a compartment for a hydration system.

Skateboard Backpack

Similar to a snowboard backpack, but smaller in size. The skateboard attachment can be made in the form of straps or a solid pocket through which the "board" is threaded. The design of the suspension system is anatomical. There is a spacious compartment for things and a compartment for gadgets, There are small pockets.

Yoga backpack

As a rule, it looks like a small backpack, but it is very roomy. There is a valve with a drawstring for attaching a standard mat. There is a section for shoes and clothes. Advanced models additionally have a compartment for a tablet or a small laptop, an organizer and a lot of pockets.

Basketball backpack (also for football and rugby)

The model's special feature is a slit pocket for a ball. The back and the nearest section are reinforced with a tight fit, allowing you to reduce the load when wearing. Basketball backpacks have dimensions, so they can also be used on a hike or trip.

Summing up

1. You should choose a sports bag based on the type of sport. If you don't have any bindings and just need a comfortable backpack for active recreation, take a classic sports backpack with you and you won't go wrong.
2. Multi-sports backpacks, as well as models for runners and bike rides, are very similar to each other, as is the "snowboard" backpack similar to a skateboard backpack. And yet, the continuation will be ensured by the presence of separate bags for each type of active recreation.
3. Pay special attention to choosing your size. Be sure to try on the backpack and adjust it to suit you. The right fit will make your vacation enjoyable, and the wrong one will be a real challenge for you.
4. A quality sports backpack is always expensive. But the functionality it offers, the comfort and convenience you continue to enjoy while using it, fully pays for the time and money spent on finding and buying it.