View Full Version : RIBZ Front Packs - Are they being seen or used very much?
Woof Shaven
10-18-2014, 23:08
http://www.ribzwear.com
Was wondering if these are seen on the trail.
Are they trekking pole compatible?
The 8-Liter Front pack weighs 11 ounces and the 11-Liter Front pack also weighs 11 ounces. (could be a web site typo?)
Youtube videos are favorable.
Looks like a great way to keep handy items handy.
Looks like a great way to redistribute weight.
Can't tell if its comfortable or hot to hike in. Perhaps you could unzip the front on hot smoky (steamy) days.
jjozgrunt
10-19-2014, 07:50
I haven't used them but I like the idea as I'm looking for a smaller pack without a lid, so this could be the option for all those small items that I would usually carry there. Looks big enough to carry some water as well. Realistically you could drop the pack and use this alone if you wished. Think I will have to order one and try it out.
One of the video's said the 11lt was 12 ozs.
I have the 8-L one. It is very handy for getting to often and/or quickly needed items. Definitely helps balance pack load if items or distributed correctly. And yes it did make me feel a bit warmer, only because of lack of air flow. As for trekking poles, I found I had to widen the distance between my poles to prevent my elbows from rubbing the front pack. But after a day or two it felt completely normal. Overall I like the Ribz and use it when my pack "overflows" or needs better organization due to bigger loads on longer hikes.
apple_muncy
10-19-2014, 08:40
I've been thinking of how to add pouches to carry more in front but would want the weight to be carried mostly on the waist belt and not on the shoulders. Perhaps two vest panels with sticks that sit in the waist belt and are secured at the top to the sternum strap.
Tipi Walter
10-19-2014, 09:03
I'd be very concerned about the proprietary harness system UNDER my normal shoulder straps and hipbelt.
http://www.ribzwear.com/wp-content/themes/RibzWear2013/images/front_pack_mannequin.png
This would never work for me. Just my opinion.
Check out the ZPacks Multipack, and see if it will do what you want. <3oz.
http://www.zpacks.com/accessories/backpack_lid.shtml
I don't like either of the ways they show it worn on the site, or having it attached to my pack.
Much better worn like this:
http://imageshack.com/a/img537/8448/OhcLZX.jpg
Woof Shaven
10-19-2014, 10:26
ZPacks Multipack heading there now for some research
psyculman
10-22-2014, 05:48
I use the Ribz pack shown in the picture for winter hiking. It does fit well when used with a full size backpack, and it fits a LOT more items than you would think. The configuration it a plus for me in cold weather, as it adds some insulation. I have never used it alone, or in the summer season, or in warm weather. It's value is that it is quick access for first aid supplies, camera, or even GPS. I bought the 'medium' size, but wish I had bought the large, as it is not as much in the way as I thought it would be.
The only problem for me is that the straps get a little tangled when it is taken off and put on. But that is a minor issue.
TheYoungOne
10-22-2014, 11:39
I'd be very concerned about the proprietary harness system UNDER my normal shoulder straps and hipbelt.
http://www.ribzwear.com/wp-content/themes/RibzWear2013/images/front_pack_mannequin.png
This would never work for me. Just my opinion.
I have the same thoughts on it as well. While I like the idea and its seems useful, especially because I like to eat lunch on the move. I worry about chaffing with all those straps rubbing with my backpack straps. I also think it will curtail airflow to your body and make you sweat and heat up.
I am in the middle of watching some hiking videos of a guy trying Ribz pack for the first time and hiking the Pemi loop in the Whites. He is one of the few youtube hikers that do "Big Miles" (20 to 40) Most internet reviews I seen of the Ribz pack are survival guys carrying a handgun in it and hiking less than a few miles.