View Full Version : youth size internal frame packs
landcruzr
11-22-2006, 08:31
looking for opinions/suggestions for youth size internal frame packs- any info would be gratly appreciated
landcruzr
Because youth are growing, there isn't much on the market for youth sized internal frame packs. Better choice might be an external frame pack like the Kelty Yukon.
bigcranky
11-22-2006, 12:17
The Kelty Coyote is an internal frame pack with a smaller and narrower suspension system. It is adjustable over a fairly wide range of torso sizes. The hiker offspring likes hers, though I will note that it weighs five pounds empty. (This drives me nuts, but she doesn't care at all.) I've seen them on sale for less than $100 in various places.
wpbucher
11-22-2006, 14:15
Jansport Scout - external frame about $65 (adjustable to fit growing torso).
Great pack for kids..have two for my sons. Kids love all the pockets....for their "treasure".
Deuter Fox 30 - internal frame about $80
Recommended by others...I have no eperience with this pack.
Just Jeff
11-22-2006, 14:34
We have the Outdoor Products Dragonfly (http://www.campmor.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?productId=14470847&memberId=12500226) (2780 ci, 3 lbs 10 oz) and Deuter Fox 30 (http://www.kidssource.com/backpacks.htm) (1800 ci, 2 lbs 7 oz). These are both heavier than my pack (GoLite Speed at 25 oz), but they don't have to worry about packing them just right. The Fox fits my 11yo perfectly; the waist belt is too big for my 7yo but he wears it anyway. Both of these packs are adjustable for several years of use.
The Dragonfly is pretty good for for the price (~$40) but it's heavy for a kids pack. I'd definitely recommend the Fox (~$80) over the Dragonfly if the volume works.
Other than these, we just used small school packs for a while - they work fine as long they fit well and the load is light. Just like adults using a frameless pack (like I do).
If you can sew, I made my son (12) a RAy-Way pack. No frame, 3700cc, 9.5oz. Only problem, the Jardines are off somewhere having fun, and their order site will not be back online until January, so he can not have it for Christmas, but he could have it for Spring. I have made 2 of their quilts, and a tarp. So far I have only tried them on a few Boy Scout campouts (last week 35 degrees) and I am very pleased with it. We will be hiking somewhere in the GA montians over Christmas break.
http://www.ray-way.com (http://www.ray-way.com/)
briarpatch
11-22-2006, 16:25
Theu aren't built as youth packs, but it looks like the Six Moon Designs packs are very adjustable, with multiple choices for hip belts and shoulder straps, as well as fitting from 15 to 22 inch torsos. I'm planning to try a Comet for my 11 year old in the spring. He's about 5 feet tall with a torso length of 16 inches. If it fits, it should last him for several years. http://www.sixmoondesigns.com (http://www.sixmoondesigns.com)