Suspended-mesh backpacks (also called Ventilated backpacks) have a large gap behind the mesh that encourages airflow to help your shirt dry faster if you perspire. They’re much more comfortable than conventional backpacks when you’re hiking in hot and humid weather or when you’re carrying a heavy load. First invented by Deuter Packs, they’re one of the most sought-after backpack features by backpackers. While many backpack manufacturers claim that their backpacks are ventilated, it’s important to differentiate between backpacks with trampoline-style mesh backs and those that have marginally effective “foam air channels.” The performance difference is significant.
Here are the 10 best ventilated backpacks that we recommend. Many of these backpacks are available in multiple volumes and for men and women, as noted below. These are the best-of-the-best ventilated and suspended mesh backpacks that will keep you drier and more comfortable on the trail.
1. Osprey Exos 58 Backpack
2. Gregory Focal 58 Backpack
3. Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra 60L
4. Osprey Atmos AG 65 Backpack
5. Osprey Exos Pro 55
6. Gregory Katmai 65
7. Deuter Futura Air Trek 50+10 Backpack
8. Aarn Mountain Magic Pro 50
9. Gregory Zulu 45 Backpack
10. Osprey Rook 65
Backpack Selection Criteria
These are the most important variables to consider when buying a backpack.
Backpack Sizing
The two most important dimensions for sizing a backpack are your torso length and your hip belt size. Measuring your torso and matching it to pack sizes is pretty straightforward. Measuring the hip belt size you need is a little more obscure because the hip belt specs published by backpack manufacturers have nothing to do with your waist size or hip bone girth. When trying on hip belts, make sure the padded portion of the hip belt covers the front of your hip bones. If it doesn’t, the hip belt is too short and more of the load will rest on your shoulders and less on your hips. If the pack you’re interested in doesn’t have a hip belt that’s large enough to cover your hip bones, do yourself a favor and buy a different backpack.
Backpack Weight
The weights of backpacks can vary widely depending on their volume and feature set. Higher volume, multi-day backpacks over 60 liters generally weigh in at 4-5 pounds, while packs 50 liters and less weigh in at 2-4 pounds. There’s no hard and fast rule that limits acceptable pack weights; just remember that a heavier backpack will be harder and more tiring to carry and let that be your guide.
Backpack Volume
The backpack volume you need will vary depending on the specific gear you need to carry, weather conditions, and the number of days you need to hike between resupply points. Generally speaking, daypacks range from 15-35 liters in size; weekend backpacks range from 30 liters to 50 liters, while multi-day backpacks range from 50-70 liters. Expedition-sized packs are much higher in volume and can range from 70-110 liters in size.
Backpack Pockets
Most backpacks have a combination of open and closed pockets. Open pockets are useful for storing gear you want fast access to without having to open the main compartment of your backpack. They’re also good for stashing wet gear in order to keep it separate from the dry or delicate gear you store in closed pockets.
Load Lifters
Load lifters are straps attached to a backpack frame, above the shoulder pads, that let you pull the top of the pack forward if you feel it pulling you back onto your heels. They’re a standard feature on high-volume backpacks but aren’t as important on smaller volume packs intended to carry lower gear weights.
Ventilated Backpacks
Ventilated backpacks help keep your back and shirt drier by encouraging airflow behind your back and faster evaporation of perspiration. They’re also called suspended mesh backpacks or trampoline backpacks. Largely a comfort feature, they have a minor impact on hiking speed or performance.
Top Closures
Backpacks typically have top lids or roll-top closures to prevent rain from draining into the main compartment. Both closure systems have different merits. Top lids usually have one or two internal pockets that provide additional gear storage for gloves, hats, maps, and navigation equipment. Roll-top closures are simpler and faster to use with fewer straps and provide excellent top compression.
External Attachment Points
Backpacks are designed to carry gear internally and externally, attached to the outside of the backpack. External attachment points or straps are helpful when you need to carry bulky gear that can’t fit inside your backpack like foam sleeping pads, avalanche shovels, skis, snowshoes, or tent bodies.
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