Which Backpack Features Matter for Comfort?

Two wide padded straps, a padded back, a waist strap for heavy loads, a lightweight pack and, for heavy loads, wheels.

Published October 25, 2026 · 3 min read · Topic: Size, Fit & Comfort · Size & fit

Typical situation

You are choosing a new backpack and want to know which features matter for your back and shoulders.

Main answer · berabags Editorial Team · Fit view

Look for two wide padded shoulder straps, a padded back, a waist strap if you will carry heavy loads, a lightweight pack and a rolling option for heavy loads. That is the list of features in AAOS OrthoInfo’s guidance on choosing a backpack.

What the sources say

OrthoInfo lists: two wide, padded shoulder straps, a padded back, a waist strap if planning to carry heavy loads, a lightweight backpack, and a rolling backpack if planning to carry heavy loads.
It advises choosing a backpack that is appropriate for the size of the child.
The NC State Ergonomics Center says that contoured shoulder straps are less likely to be uncomfortable or to place pressure on the torso than straight or bridged straps.
It says lightweight packs can have two shoulder straps, while packs for heavier loads may have shoulder, waist and chest straps.
It adds that ventilation or lumbar support can add comfort.

How to test a pack

Load it with a typical day’s items.
Put it on and adjust the straps.
Walk around, climb a stair and bend.
Check for pressure on the shoulders and neck.
Look at how the pack sits against the back.

What to avoid

A single strap, thin straps and an oversized pack that invites overloading.

A short shop checklist

Bring the load you really carry, such as a laptop or books, and wear the pack for a few minutes. Ask yourself whether the straps press on any one spot, whether the back panel is padded where it touches you, and whether the pack stays close to your back when you bend. If the answer to any of these is no, try another model rather than hoping the pack will soften with use.

Where this answer stops

OrthoInfo’s guidance is written for children and teens, and the NC State note is for workplace use. Adults can use the same principles, but fit varies from person to person.

Sources and further reading

Three more perspectives

berabags Editorial Team · Fit view

Try the pack loaded, not empty. A strap that feels comfortable on an empty pack can dig in once it carries real weight, so put a typical load in it at the shop.

berabags Editorial Team · Purchasing view

Rank the features by what you carry. A light daily load needs good straps and a padded back, while a heavy load adds a waist strap or wheels.

berabags Editorial Team · Selection view

Check the empty weight of the pack. Padding and extras add up, and a very heavy pack uses up part of the load that you can carry.

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