Green Garden Vest Style Backpack Straps vs Conventional Backpack Shoulder Straps – GWC Mag gwcmagApril 8, 2024066 views This post may contain affiliate links.Philip Werner April 8, 2024 Frequently Asked QuestionsBackpacks with vest-style shoulder straps, inspired by the trail running community, are increasingly popular. Vest-style backpack straps work best on lower-volume backpacks with a maximum of 40L of volume and maximum recommended loads under 25 pounds. This is because the pack weight sits higher up on your torso – your chest, shoulders, and upper back instead of the more powerful muscles of your hips. That’s also why many packs with vest-style shoulder straps don’t have hip belts or the ones they do have aren’t load-bearing.Here’s a breakdown of vest-style straps compared to conventional backpack straps:Vest-Style Shoulder StrapsDesign: Wide, often made of breathable, stretchy material. They wrap around the torso like a vest.Benefits:Stability: Snug fit minimizes bouncing, ideal for high-movement activities like running or biking.Balance: Distributes load across the front and back of the body.Momentum: Front weight helps generate forward momentum, good for running.Comfort: Distributes weight evenly across shoulders and chest, reducing pressure points.Accessibility: Easier access to gear stored in front pockets on the vest itself.Drawbacks:Capacity: Typically designed for lighter loads, not ideal for multi-day adventures.Ventilation: Can trap heat against your back, especially in warm weather.Adjustability: May offer less adjustability compared to traditional straps or backpacks with adjustable torso lengths. Since vest-style packs are usually frameless, they lack load lifters.Conventional Backpack Shoulder StrapsDesign: Padded straps with adjustable buckles and sternum straps. J-shaped straps are designed for use by men. S-shaped straps are better for women because they curve around breasts, but are also comfortable for men. Some companies like ULA Equipment offer the choice of J or S-shaped shoulder straps on their semi-custom packs.Benefits:Capacity: Can handle heavier loads due to weight transfer to hips through a hip belt when the backpack has a frame.Ventilation: Mesh padding allows for better airflow.Adjustability: More straps and buckles for a customized fit. In particular, shoulder straps with load lifters can be used to bring the main compartment closer to your core muscles.Drawbacks:Stability: Can bounce more during high-movement activities.Comfort: May dig into shoulders with heavy loads.Accessibility: Gear stored in the main compartment may be harder to reach.Popular Vest Style BackpacksChoosing Between Them:Activity: Vest-style chest and shoulder straps excel in running, biking, and fast-paced activities. Conventional backpack shoulder straps are better for hiking, backpacking, and carrying heavier loads.Comfort: Vest-style straps are great for lighter loads, while conventional backpack straps are better for heavier loads with proper adjustment.Climate: Consider ventilation if you tend to get hot easily. Conventional straps may be cooler.Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs, preferences, and fit.SectionHiker is reader-supported. We only make money if you purchase a product through our affiliate links. Help us continue to test and write unsponsored and independent gear reviews, beginner FAQs, and free hiking guides.