by Alicia MacLeay
Consider this: a well-loaded 35-pound pack pulls back eight pounds of force on your shoulders, causing you to compensate by leaning forward. If you’ve ever backpacked you probably know that hunched over feeling. But move some weight forward and you zero-out the backward pull, so you can carry heavier loads (think camera gear, toddlers in kid carriers, your spouse’s hardcover book) more easily and in a more natural, upright, comfortable position.
The Syncpack, a unique front pack that mounts on the front of any waist-belted backpack, is designed to balance your load by carrying up to 10 counterbalancing pounds of gear. In addition to balancing your center of gravity, the front pack allows you to access frequently used gear, like maps, cameras, or snacks, while on the move.
Syncpack co-inventor Britt Clayton is an avid hiker, mountaineer, and photographer who wanted a front pack to carry and access his heavy camera gear. He tried rigging up systems using various daypacks and lumbar packs, but nothing worked quite right. Clayton says he either had to swivel the bags around or they made him overly sweaty or bounced with every step. To eliminate the bounce and sweat factors, he realized he needed a front pack with an articulated frame. Syncpack is the result.
The Syncpack attaches to your backpack’s waist belt and shoulder straps using quick-release connectors. A multi-adjustable, lightweight aluminum frame transmits the front load’s weight onto your backpack’s waist belt. To match your movements while walking, skiing or riding, climbing, or just sitting or bending, the pack dynamically articulates, flexing and moving with you.
According to Clayton, backpackers, birdwatchers, photographers, soldiers, and anyone who has felt strain or pain from carrying a pack will experience greater comfort and performance with a Syncpack. “Most hikers and backpackers have experienced strain and awkwardness from carrying a heavy backpack,” said Clayton. “A heavy backpack throws off your center of gravity, altering your balance and posture. The Syncpack helps restore balance and allows you to stand more upright, which makes the load feel much lighter.”
Capacity: 400 cubic inches (plus two external water bottles pockets and bottom accessory straps)
Weight: 2.5 lbs
MSRP: $179
Availability: The Syncpack is expected to be available for sale by the end of 2006 with deliveries in early 2007.
