Posted: 8/25/2008 8:31:44 PM EDT
I've been spending some time looking for a decent kids backpack. Here's some of the criteria:
I'm having a pretty tough time finding anything that fits this profile. I'd like for them to be able to go on a 1-2 night light backpacking trip with me. A mickey-mouse pack isn't going to get it, and I think a youth pack will be too big. The closest thing I can find is this one, but the REI reviews make me think it's still a little big (hip belt doesn't go small enough, etc). If anyone here has found something like this, PLEASE post a link. Am I over thinking this? I want them to enjoy the experience, and a poorly sized pack will do a lot to keep that from happening. I can't be the only one in this boat... Thanks in advance, -Slice |
|
Can't really comment on its suitability, but there's one that's been listed in the EE for an age. He hasn't bumped the ad for nearly a month, but he hasn't marked it SOLD either. www.ar15.com/forums/topic.html?b=7&f=126&t=560264 |
|
My son's wanting a pack, as well. He's 9, & really likes my Kelty RedWing 3100, but it's way too big for him. However, we recently found the smaller version of the same pack (RedWing 2650; the # is the nominal capacity in cubic inches), & it's smallest adjustments fit him pretty well, though we haven't purchased it yet. It's an internal frame, panel loader, with a generous front pocket, including an internal organizer, and a couple of long side pockets. There are compression straps, several lash points, & a daisy chain on the back. Hydration pocket & port are designed in, as well. Kelty quality & customer service if there's ever a problem. It runs around $100; we found it at Dick's Sporting Goods. You might do better on-line, or catch it on sale. I've persuaded my son to try an overnight trip first, using a JanSport day pack. It's big enough for most of his essentials. His sleeping pad will either lash to the back, or be lashed on with mine. Hope to make that happen this fall, as the wather gets tolerable. Good luck with your search! David |
|
I looked at that Kelty, but one of them has a really small waist. According to REI's specs, it won't adjust small enough. I did find an Osprey that is 2100 cu in and a Detuer that is 1850. There's also another osprey, but it's only 1400 cu in, and doesn't look like it has nearly as many features. I think both of these are probably big enough to hold a sleeping bag, some clothes, and a little bit of gear. Both are hydration compatible. Their torso sizes are 13" and 15.5", assuming I measured it correctly. I'd like to get them the same one (to avoid fights), but I'm leaning towards getting the smaller one for the younger kid and the Osprey for the bigger one. $80 sure looks better than $130, though, especially x2. But I'm guessing the Osprey is built like a tank and would last them for quite some time. I've never owned one. Does anyone have an opinion on either of these? Required size (is 1850 big enough)? If I stick to the 15-20% of body weight rule, they sure won't be carrying much... Other possibilities? When I talked to Mrs. Slice about looking into this, I had no idea it would be this complicated -- or expensive. Thanks in advance |