Kifaru Pack Fitting - Part 1, Longhunter, EMR, MMR AG1 & AG2

Part 1, Initial fit

Category:

Howto & Style

Tags:

• kifaru
• pack
• fit

[unclethanatos]

When carrying a very heavy load with my Navigator, I experienced significant, painful bruising on both my hip bones after just one day (the first of several in the field. not fun). Any suggestions on how to prevent that from happening while keeping the weight on my hips?

[Kifarutube]

This recommended solution is from Mr. Patrick Smith (two parts):

Here's how to use the waisbelt properly: 1)Before putting the pack on

LOOSEN the four Delta Straps completely. 2)Put the pack on, shrug your

shoulders up so that the lumbar pad on your Navigator rises fully into the

lumbar region of your back.

[Kifarutube]

Mr. Smith's reply, part 2:

3) Tighten the waistbelt VERY tightly. Shrug

your shoulders and tighten again. 4) At this point DO NOT tighten the four

Delta Straps. These straps are needed ONLY for very athletic moves like

climbing, and are very likely being overtighted, resulting in undue

pressure on your hipbones; so to correct don't use them at all.

[Kifarutube]

Mr. Smith's comment, part 3:

You can

begin to use again after you learn that the main belt itself is quite

comfortable alone.  Re-engage the Delta Straps only when needed, and

lightly--don't crank!

[captaincrunch2007]

@kthanid83 I think Patrick does a great job. If you want a flashy "car salesman" there are other pack companies out there. Having Patrick do all of the videos keeps it personal, it's like having your buddy tell you about his gear.

[kthanid83]

great packs, great inventor but he would do himself a favor getting someone else to review them. he is not a great speaker, out me to sleep.

[richardzapata357]

can you use this pack with a full military kit such as a belt rig and body armor w/chest rigs.  If you have to keep your hip area smooth or clear than I take it there is no way to wear this with my rig?

[Kudzu35]

probably need to tighten the pad or shift the load of your pack around. sounds like your weight was sitting on your hips the whole time and not on your back.