Back Length Explained

Many of Lowe Alpine packs, and specifically the bigger and more technical packs are available in different back lengths or adjustable back lengths. Contrary to popular belief, your torso length and not your height is the key to getting a well fitted pack. Tall people don’t necessarily have long back lengths, just as shorter people may have a long back length.

What is Back Length?

Your back length can be found by measuring from your C7 vertebra (the bony protrusion at the back of your neck) to your iliac crest (the top of your hips). Finding your back length measurements will help you to select the right size pack for your body for the most comfortable carry, wherever your adventures take you.

How to Measure?

You will need a tape measure and a friend to help you out.

Place your hands on your hips and tilt your head forwards. Ask your helper to measure from the bony protrusion at the back of your neck to where your hands sit on your hips. This measurement will give you an idea of which back length to choose.

 

Women's Regular Back Length Regular Back Length Longer Back Length
16"/41cm 18"/46cm 20"/51cm

 

 

Lowe Alpine packs flex to fit to your body shape, so don’t worry if your back length does not measure exactly 16, 18 or 20 inches. We have adjustable back lengths on many styles of packs in our ranges.

Carry System Women's Regular Back Length Regular Back Length Longer Back Length
VT Flex / VT Plus 17-21” / 43-53cm 19-23” / 48-58cm 21-25” / 53-63cm
V-Trax 14-18” / 36-46cm 16-20” / 41-51cm 18-22” / 46-56cm
Air Contour+ 17-19” / 43-48cm 19-21” / 48-53cm 21-23” / 53-58cm
Air Contour 14-18” / 36-46cm 16-20” / 41-51cm 18-22” / 46-56cm
AirZone+ 17-19" / 43-48cm 19-21" / 48-53cm