How to Measure Your Back Length

How to Measure Your Back Length

Height and back length are not always directly related: tall people can have a short back, and shorter people may have a longer back. Therefore, the height indication on backpacks is only a rough guideline.

The most important factor when choosing the right backpack size is your back length.

How to measure your back length:

• Locate your iliac crest (the top edge of your hip bone).
• Measure along your spine from the iliac crest up to the C7 vertebra.
• The C7 vertebra is the bone that sticks out slightly when you tilt your head forward.

 

1. Define back length: Measure the distance between the 7th cervical vertebra and the top of your hip bone (iliac crest).
2. Find key points: Tilt your head forward to locate the protruding 7th vertebra. Use thumb and index finger on your hips to find the iliac crest.
3. Use a belt: Place a belt horizontally along the top of your hip bone to keep your spine aligned.
4. Place the tape measure: Start at the 7th vertebra and let the tape fall straight down to the belt's upper edge.
5. Fix the measuring point: Use your thumb and index finger to mark where the tape meets the belt at the center of your back.
6. Complete the measurement: Release the tape from the top, holding it at the bottom.
7. Read your measurement: Bring the tape to the front and read your back length just above your thumb

 

Age & Gender	Back Length (cm)	Body Height (cm)	Examples & Recommendations
Kids	20 - 23	92 - 98	Pico
	24 - 30	98 - 130	Kikki / Waldfuchs 10 & 14 / Schmusebär
	28 - 42	110 - 168	Fox 30
	32 - 44	130 - 168	Junior / Climber / Attack 8 JR / Compact 8 JR
	32 - 46	130 - 172	Fox 40
Women (Slim Line)	38 - 48	158 - 178	All SL models with fixed back system
	35 - 56	158 - 178	All SL models with adjustable carrying system
Unisex	38 - 54	158 - 195	All bike and lifestyle series without SL models
	44 - 58	158 - 195	Kid Comfort series
Men	44 - 54	170 - 195	All men's models with fixed back system
	42 - 62	170 - 205	All men's models with adjustable carrying system
Men (Extra Long)	48 - 58	185 - 205	All EL models with fixed back system