Butt Packs?

[Barney]

I normally use a backpack but for some time I've been wanting to get one of those packs that ride on your waist, popularly called butt packs, especially those that Maxpedition carries. My only concern is that they add too much pressure on the lower back.

[oldsarge]

I don't think that would work for me. I'd have to lighten my load big time to get the butt pack to ride comfortably. I feel like I wouldn't enjoy having something riding on my hips all day.

[catspa]

If you were a carpenter and spent all day wearing a tool belt, it'd be no big deal. I've got an Ultimate Torsopac Trekker (somewhat modified) that I load to about 20# and love it. Suspenders help with a heavy one.

Parker

[Lamebeaver]

I find it much more comfortable for the weight to ride on my hips than my shoulders.

[wvbreamfisherman]

I have a set of suspenders and a web belt that I like to wear on day hikes. I can carry a canteen or two, and some basic stuff in various pouches, or hang a butt pack off the rear to carry more.

You could do an overnighter with a very lightweight, packable sleeping bag and a tarp or bivvy sack for shelter.

I wouldn't want to go much over 20 pounds or so total.

[Refrigerator]

Mountainsmith makes some of the best Butt/Fanny packs around.

Mountainsmith

[ghostdog]

Originally Posted by Refrigerator

Mountainsmith makes some of the best Butt/Fanny packs around.

Mountainsmith

I have used their Day lumbar pack for years now and have the Strappets on it. It makes a very good small summer daypack and can carry some weight with no discomfort. I only use it on hikes of 3.5 hours or less but that is for water supply concerns in the desert.

I'm one of them who likes to carry almost all the weight on my hips. My big Osprey backpacks have super hip belts that comfortably carry it all right on the hips. The shoulder straps balance the pack and keep it close to the body.

[DMan]

I've never tried one of those but I don't think I'd find them as comfortable as the regular old backpack. I'd be leery about the stress on the lower back.

[TDale]

Try one, you'll like it. Under twenty pounds, there's no better way to carry stuff. Remember to get it up on your hips and into the small of your back. It feels strange until you're moving. Then it just works.

[ppine]

I use a larger butt pack for deer and elk hunting. Weight on the hips is the best place for it. That is why waist belts really helped backpacking. A butt pack is freeing compared to a regular pack. It also does not interfere with a rifle sling.