Men's backpacks: types, design and selection rules

A backpack from a highly specialized hiking item, an army knapsack, has turned into a topical item of a modern man's wardrobe, designed for almost all occasions. Convenience, comfort, healthy posture, style and the latest reliable materials are the main characteristics that have determined its rapid advancement among items of now everyday use.

The backpack owes its origin to an army knapsack, which has been widespread in military affairs since the beginning of the 19th century. In those days, these products were made from tarpaulin in a factory way or sewn in small workshops. This explains the variety of their shapes, volumes and design solutions. In the USSR, the model of a backpack was V. Abalakov's model in its hiking or mountaineering version. Having become a kind of Soviet standard for many years, the model did not particularly differ in its beautiful design, but in practicality and reliability there was no equal to it.

Today's backpacks, in their target, color, constructive and design variety, have practically become a familiar wardrobe item due to their convenience and practicality. According to their constructive specifics, they are divided into:

• soft;
• tough;
• semi-rigid.

Typical examples of the first type of backpack are Soviet era products... They were not equipped with a rigid frame body and special pendants, and the fabric used was not impregnated. Nevertheless, even today a number of models for children and women are made in soft versions. Such products can be made in the form of a soft toy, as well as in knitted, sewn or wicker modifications.

They carry various little things that can come in handy during short walks. These backpacks look original and stylish. Rigid versions of backpacks, supplied with frames made of aluminum or steel, are called easel. For example, Yarov's backpack.

In this case, the frame, which prevents a snug fit to the back, forms an air cushion that promotes ventilation. The disadvantage of these products is increased likelihood of injury from falls.

Semi-rigid backpack options are more common. They are equipped with special stiffening plates curved along the back profile. The plates are tightly positioned on the body in order to optimally distribute the load on the spine. The back of the products is equipped with special air-permeable overlays, otherwise the back will sweat.

A significant variety of auxiliary elements in products (hooks, carabiners, laces, fasteners) determine their multipurpose use. Backpacks are diverse in their functional purpose:

• expeditionary;
• tourist;
• tracking;
• mountaineering;
• speleological;
• ski;
• sports;
• urban;
• children;
• for animals;
• for wearing photographic devices;
• for water sports;
• skate;
• beach.

Most of them are made from strong materials impregnated with special water-repellent compounds. Materials are used both natural and artificial, reinforced with special reinforcing fibers. Consider the main types of backpacks.

Designed for long journeys, they have a significant capacity, have an additional sturdy frame and are equipped with a belt suspension.They are made to carry loads of significant weight, therefore special requirements are imposed on them in terms of strength.

They are divided into a number of groups by volume:

• 8085 l - the most common;
• 9095 l;
• more than 100 liters.

Various types of products, presented in a wide range. This includes products with varying degrees of rigidity, special anatomical foam backs or aluminum frames.

Designed for long crossings on pre-prepared routes. They have a small number of additional suspensions, but in terms of volume and other parameters, they are similar to tourist backpacks. Their main qualities are practicality, versatility and convenience.

They look like tracking ones but suggest more additional tools in the external harness... If the ascent is short, then they use assault models, which are convenient for one-day trips to nature.

Basic option for any transition or departure for a long time. Their main purpose is to carry things with the greatest comfort. These are backpacks of significant volume, equipped with a number of many useful accessories and parts. Their typical volume is 40-60 liters, depending on the equipment and the length of the hikes.

Indispensable for the military, fishermen and hunters. Equipped with special compartments, waist belts and ropes for hanging tools and equipment. Their volume is in the range of 25-40 liters. By color - camouflage or khaki.

Specialized products that differ in design, appearance, volumes, types of devices and other parameters. Used for serious pedestrian crossings.

Designed for a one-day trip (walk), without spending the night, possibly with a camera.

Created for free travel for different periods and according to their own program. Convenient, for example, for the beach. Lightweight, mobile and comfortable.

Strong, technological products with a small number of outer pockets, streamlined shape and a volume of 20-50 liters. Purpose - climbs and small transitions with extreme elements. Structurally, they provide for a convenient and reliable placement of ropes and various ice tools.

Tubes (transport bags) made of light fabrics, without external suspensions, with smooth shoulder straps attached to the side of the bags. At their bottom there are eyelets for moisture drainage. Backpacks can be supported from all sides, which is convenient when overcoming inconvenient descents and ascents.

Equipped with special fasteners for skis and snowboards. They have a variety of devices for effective ventilation of the back and lumbar region. Often equipped with special back protection. Used by both skiers and snowboarders.

Special items for carrying children (kangaroo bags, ergo backpacks). In fact, this is a large-sized scarf attached to the shoulder or waist. Kangaroo bags are small rucksacks with a hard back, designed for children who already know how to sit or walk, but cannot make long transitions on their own.

Equipped with armholes and a solid bottom for the animal, equipped with ventilation holes and portholes. The front wall of the backpack is rigid for safe transportation of the animal in transport. Backpacks are made in two types - shoulder and chest.

The most diverse and popular view, which is used with pleasure by both adults and children - all those who are comfortable walking along the city streets with a backpack.Various models, including youth options, provide special pockets for containers with drinks, laptops, various gadgets, keys.

Urban backpacks are a special category, a great and comfortable alternative to traditional bags. They are characterized by small volumes, up to 30 liters, and a diverse design of models. As a convenient accessory, they are often equipped with niches for tablets and mobile phones.

They are divided into two types: multifunctional and cycling. The first are similar to lifeguard vests, small volumes, tight-fitting body. Their main difference is a significant number of pockets and external hangers, which ensure the convenience of removing small items.... Similar products are used in various sports.

The latter are subdivided into shoulder (10-30 l) and luggage. Cycling options - for training, usually small in size, with special aerodynamics. Products for "wheeled" walks and tourism are supplied with a mesh back and are more voluminous.

Made from sturdy materials, often polyester. They are convenient for carrying a skateboard and other things during a city walk. The interior of the product is divided into several niches. Some models require a sealing orthosis and a special loop handle. They are produced in various volumes - from small children to large, professional ones.

They are carried out in two versions - back and chest. These are products with capacious and soft compartments for expensive photographic instruments. Some manufacturers provide a protective, moisture-resistant harness (Dakine). For extreme lovers are offered multisport products. Backpacks of this type are designed even with anti-avalanche safety systems.

Protect the contents from moisture. These are products with a waterproof top, the seams of which are taped. Used, as a rule, in caving trips.

Created for carrying educational supplies. Equipped with several convenient compartments and pockets, allowing you to quickly find and remove the desired item. The design of the products is usually striking. Sometimes backpacks are made in the form of toys or favorite animals.

Backpacks can also be categorized as mens, womens, versatile and kids.

• Models for men, in contrast to women's options, usually of large volumes, are performed in a strict design.
• Universal products have averaged parameters and are sewn without an emphasis on male or female anatomy, therefore they are suitable for both. Often, such modifications have special devices that fit the height and shape of the device.
• Backpacks for children - small-volume products for babies up to 3 years old, preschoolers, school and teenage options. Often performed with an orthopedic back.

The materials of the backpacks are determined by their purpose. Products can be fabric, denim, canvas, tarpaulin, etc., and even have a rigid body. Walking backpacks and models for lightweight hikes are available in nylon or tarpaulin.

For long journeys and expeditions, backpacks made of sturdy fabrics that do not allow dust and moisture to pass through are better suited. Synthetic materials are used as specialized fabrics for extreme cases, for example, Oxford, Cordura.

Examples of the most popular fabrics.

• Oxford - An inexpensive alternative to Cordura material, has a polyurethane-impregnated nylon base (thin and smooth).
• Cordura - nylon with a special thread-like additive, impregnated with water-repellent substances and a polyurethane coating. Pros: strength, extraordinary durability, presentation, moisture resistance. Cons: high cost, instability to low temperatures, significant weight.
• Avizent - material with a nylon base and strong weaving of threads.The material is durable, lightweight, frost-resistant, inexpensive. However, it is moisture-permeable and prone to rupture.
• Polyester - fabric on a lavsan basis with PVC. The fabric is weak, not resistant to abrasion, hardens in the cold, cannot be repaired. It is inexpensive and looks beautiful. It is used for sewing city and children's backpacks.
• Leather and eco-leather often used to make fashionable and elegant backpacks for the city. Genuine leather does not tolerate exposure to sunlight, low temperatures and moisture. Therefore, the skin needs special care. But eco-leather is devoid of such disadvantages.

Often, to strengthen the bottom in backpacks, durable cardboard and other materials are used as inserts:

• theses - thickened cord nylon covered with PVC;
• thickened cordura;
• Duratex - polyamide fabric, extraordinarily strong and practically indelible;
• other special materials with increased strength parameters.

Gone are the days when backpacks were used only by travelers and the military. Nowadays, stylish backpacks for the stronger sex have become a full-fledged alternative to other traditional items. They are extremely comfortable and roomy, and are not worse in style than other men's accessories.

Products for urban conditions are made in formal and informal styles, have a rich palette of colors. Black, white, red, khaki and other colors of the product, harmoniously combined with items of men's clothing, form a fashionable image. Various original design and vintage models of backpacks are in use.

• Black - not distinguished by a special abundance of decorative elements and accessories, they are perfectly combined with many urban style trends. These models look great with light gray sweatshirts and blue jeans. Form a harmonious bow with casual jackets.
• Products of brown shades, especially light ones, are perfect for informal jackets or coats, in good harmony with light trousers.
• Dark brown shades - an excellent choice in the smart casual direction.
• Khaki products, similar to military models, will decorate the image in the military style in an original way.

In the highly diverse backpack market, American and German manufacturers are leading the way. Nevertheless, domestic firms are also in the top ten of the rating.

• Dakine (USA) - the brand's products are distinguished by enviable quality, stylish design and high functionality.

• Deuter Is a German company with a rich history. Traditionally produces high-quality, innovative products thanks to proven multi-level control.

• High peak Is a brand of the German concern Simex Sport International, which produces goods for camping and tourism. The firm's products are characterized by functionality and durability.

• Husky - a manufacturer of reliable European quality tourist equipment from the Czech Republic.

• Jack Wolfskin - a company from Germany, using in the production of unique materials with special protective characteristics developed by the company itself.

• Kiwidition –New Zealand company Sky Adventure Limited, which started as a manufacturer of tactical equipment used both in extreme conditions and in the city.

• Nova Tour - a domestic company that produces reliable and high-quality equipment for hiking, hunting and fishing.

• Osprey Is an American brand whose motto is "decent quality" and special product design.

• Thule - a Swedish brand that produces excellent equipment for families.

• Trek planet - a young domestic company that manufactures products for outdoor walks. Pays attention to the comfort of products and their durability. The cost of products is mainly budgetary.

When choosing a specific model of a backpack, it is useful to focus on a number of criteria.

• Strength, durability and reliability... Particular attention should be paid to seams, fittings and material.
• Dimensions. For everyday models, a volume of 15 liters is quite suitable, for hiking - from 40 liters. For a comfortable fit, it is important to pay attention to the shoulder straps and backrest, which should fit snugly against the body without restricting movement.
• Water resistance material to preserve the contents of the backpack.
• Target use of the product.
• Functionality and ergonomics... Practical assessment of the inside of the backpack (compartments and pockets).
• Price.
• Design products should correspond to the purpose of the backpack and in style should correspond to the image of the owner.

In the next video you will find an overview of the Tigernu men's backpacks.