Hiking Backpacks

How to choose your hiking rucksack

The right hiking rucksack is, first and foremost, one that suits the length and type of your outing. Three criteria matter most: capacity (in litres), empty weight and carrying comfort. A day hike has nothing in common with a self-sufficient mountain trek: in one case you want a compact, lightweight rucksack, in the other a more generous volume able to hold a tent, sleeping bag and stove. Before buying, work out the kit you usually carry, then choose the right capacity: too large a rucksack encourages overpacking, too small a one forces you to strap the overflow to the outside. Our range covers every type of outdoor pursuit, from a gentle walk to a long-distance trek.

What capacity for which outing?

Capacity is measured in litres and follows directly from how long you'll be walking. For a day out or a short walk, a 20L rucksack is enough for water, a windproof jacket and your lunch. For a more demanding hike or a night in a mountain hut, step up to a 30L or 40L rucksack. A self-sufficient trek, tent and sleeping bag included, calls for more: a 50L model, or even 70 litres and above. In short: 20L for the day, 30 to 40L for a weekend, 50L and beyond for longer hikes and mountain treks.

Weight: lightweight and ultralight rucksacks

Every gram counts on a long route. A lightweight rucksack reduces fatigue and eases strain on your joints, especially on technical sections. High-tenacity nylon or polyester fabrics now offer an excellent strength-to-weight ratio, and ultralight models come in under a kilo while keeping the essentials of comfort. An ultralight rucksack often sheds some of its padding and frame: this type of ultra-lightweight model excels with a moderate load, less so when fully packed out with heavy gear.

Carrying comfort, ventilated backs and men's/women's models

A well-fitted rucksack puts the weight on your hips, not your shoulders. Check the hip belt, the padded shoulder straps and, above all, the back ventilation system: an ultra-ventilated back, with a taut mesh structure, lets air circulate and limits sweating during long efforts - a real bonus in warm weather outdoors. Body shape matters too: women's hiking rucksacks feature a shorter back panel and curved straps, while men's models are built with a longer back. A properly adjusted rucksack, fitted to your back length rather than your height, turns a long day's trekking into a simple formality.

Pockets, accessories and weather resistance

Beyond volume, good organisation makes all the difference out on the trail: an easy-access main compartment, side pockets for your water bottle, pole attachments and straps for bulky gear. On the weather front, a water-repellent fabric or a built-in waterproof cover keeps your sleeping bag and clothes dry in a downpour. Don't forget the small hiking accessories that complete the set-up: a well-designed, well-equipped rucksack means setting off with a clear mind, ready for adventure.