Styles and Types of Backpacks

Because there are so many different uses for backpacks, there are dozens of different styles of backpack available today. Here are some common types of backpacks you can select from:

• Day packs
• Alpine packs
• Travel Packs
• Baby backpacks
• Laptop backpacks
  computer backpacks
  notebook backpack
• Picnic backpacks
• Hiking/Camping back packs
• Rolling backpacks
• School backpacks
• Skateboard backpacks
• Leather backpacks
• Waterproof backpacks

Backpacks, regardless of their style, most manufacturers build packs in a similar manner. There are several parts to the basic back pack. These include the straps or harness, hip belt, back pad and stays. Let's look more at each of these features in detail.

Straps

Most straps and harnesses are balanced so the weight you carry is easily divided between your hips. You should check straps to make sure they provide adequate padding. Straps should allow a full range of motion and all should be adjustable. Some backpacks come with a sternum strap. This strap, placed across the chest, helps prevent the straps from rubbing against the under arms.

Hip belt

This is an important feature of back packs. It helps not only stabilize and distribute weight, but also helps keep your pack from bouncing out of place. Usually smaller packs have a hipbelt for the purpose of minimizing bouncing. The hip belt is more important for larger packs, because it helps distribute the weight more evenly.

Back pad

This part of your backpack lays flat against your back. Typically padded, larger packs usually have weight supporting structures attached to this pad, called "stays". An ordinary school pack may have only a rigid and slightly padded panel built into the pad to help promote stabilization.

Kids Backpacks

Did you know that more than 40 million children will wear a back pack to school every year? That said, most of them wear their pack incorrectly or put too much inside their pack. If you plan to buy packs for your kids, keep in mind the pack should weight no more than 15 percent of your child's body weight. So, if your child weighs 100 pounds, the pack should have 15 pounds worth of material inside.

Usually this isn't a problem during the elementary years, but older children often pile too many books in their pack. Make sure you talk with your child so they know the best way to pack their sack to minimize back pain and discomfort. Some kid's bags are specially designed with smaller frames and straps to provide added comfort and support. Be sure to check into these if buying for your young ones.

Sports Backpacks

Backpacking is a common sport among athletes and novices alike. Sports backpacks have several features that make them useful for back packing. Most are crafted from durable, weather resistant material. Many have accessories including a water bottle holder and waterproof lining.

Some sports back packs are designed for specific sports. You can find specialty packs for example, for soccer, skiing, hiking and more. Most sports packs are designed to be functional and comfortable.

Specialty Backpacks

For those interested in making a statement, you can also buy Dana Design Backpacks and other designer labels. Some packs are designed to meet the needs of people backpacking through Europe. Still others are available for picnicking, kayaking and more. No matter what your need you can likely find a specialty designed pack!

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