Wrapping Backpack Straps / Backpack Contents

[Elaia]

A friend of mine suggested wrapping the straps of your backpack in something soft (such as faux fur) so that they don’t rub your shoulders. Has anyone tried this with good results? I’m worried it will make things too hot and not breathable.

I’m bringing the Camelback pictured below, (which is designed for running), so technically the straps shouldn’t rub too much, but they kind of do. Going to cover the logos with reflective fabric. Any suggestions on the straps would be greatly appreciated.

Also making a plan for the contents of my day/night pack. Does anyone have a good list or link to a list they want to share?

[Savannah]

I would use silk/satiny material. You're right about fur being too warm (in the daytime, anyway).

I've been rubbed raw by backpack straps in the past, because I am overly fond of canvas-strapped military bags worn with tank tops. If I were going to use my favorite military bag this year, this was the plan: I would pad the straps with neckties. I would've washed the ties once in mild detergent (because ties rarely if ever get washed and tend to carry bacteria, or if new: dye) rinse thoroughly and press, then open the ties down the back and fit them down the straps, and hand sew in place. One could also use a "winding" action; ties are long enough to permit this.

I have a new bag this year and the straps are kinda padded and nowhere near as rough, so I'm probably not going to try it this time.

But I'm going to make damn sure to wash my "under-strap" skin each night with lemon juice, then apply lotion, even Neosporin if I need it. Every night.

[Elaia]

Yeah, I was definitely thinking about silk. The ties are a great idea. Thanks Savannah!

[essjay]

Well, a little playa bling never hurts . . .

But, that is a very light bag, so you should be fine. I have a bag with similar straps which I have worn directly on my skin without problems out there. Just check for any nylon thread ends sticking out.

[Savannah]

I might think so, too. I should clarify that the bag straps on my previously favorite (injurious) bag were made of the same stuff the older army duffle bag straps were made of: incredibly stiff, thick canvas on half-bare skin. And it took 4 or 5 days of regular wear before the skin really started to hurt. You'll see it coming on.

So anyone who doesn't have time to wrap the straps on something softer shouldn't necessarily panic.

[Elaia]

Thanks guys!

[junglesmacks]

So anyone who doesn't have time to wrap the straps on something softer shouldn't necessarily panic.

+1

Modern, well made backpacks are pretty well designed these days. You should be fine. I wear my DaKine Heli-Pro backpack shirtless all week during the day without problems, as well as on many long hikes through the year. The main thing is to cinch the straps correctly so that it's not loose and rubbing. Most bags have the small clip on the front in the center of the straps. Use that to bring the straps together and make a nice, snug but not tight fit and you'll be fine.

[illy dilly]

But I'm going to make damn sure to wash my "under-strap" skin each night with lemon juice, then apply lotion, even Neosporin if I need it. Every night.

O geez, Savannah talk about her under-strap again!

Savannah, I thought we discussed this and your going to make a special ointment specifically for "under-strap-chapping"
Savannah's Under-strap Balm and Salve