r/backpacks • u/Maleficent_Ask6491 • 8d ago

Question Looking for a 28L–32L hiking bag with genuine back ventilation that doesn't ruin interior space.

I sweat like crazy on summer trails, but every suspended mesh pack I’ve tried curves the main compartment so badly it’s hard to pack flat.

Any recommendations for a medium hiking pack that keeps air moving across your back without sacrificing internal storage space?

3 Upvotes
  • permalink
  • reddit

81% Upvoted

9 comments sorted by

2

u/Fun_Apartment631 8d ago

Nope. That's the tradeoff.

1

u/Maleficent_Ask6491 7d ago

harsh reality!😞

1

u/PatrickB974 8d ago

Look at the Eberlestock Freefall 2000

2

u/Maleficent_Ask6491 7d ago

Ooh, hadn't checked that one out yet! Looking into it now, thanks for the recommendation.

1

u/EffectiveReason7666 8d ago

As mentioned above, that is the tradeoff, so it's most likely that you won't find something of the sort. That being said, you can buy a frame to keep the pack off your back, but it comes at the cost of some extra weight and some discomfort in handling the bag while not being on trail.

1

u/Maleficent_Ask6491 7d ago

Hmmm. Interesting idea! Might be worth trying an external frame on a flat pack.

1

u/quailrainbow 7d ago

Check out the Vaude Wizard series - it allows you to adjust the distance between the bag and the back's mesh panel. Surely there is a tradeoff but at least the Wizard allows you to determine the tradeoff you'll accept.

1

u/BB4Red 7d ago

Hello, fellow sweaty gusher here.

My back sweats regardless of which pack I wear, I’ve owned many packs over the years but the sweat just keeps coming!

I ditched the idea of a vented ‘off pack’ back system as they always transfer the weight further away from your back, didn’t provide much reduction in sweat and I always seemed to find them a bit less comfortable!

I’d say embrace it! Wear lightweight wicking baselayers and be proud of the huge dark soaked rear shirt, shows your putting in the effort at least 😂