Contoured or Straight Backpack Shoulder Straps?

Contoured straps are less likely to cause pressure on the torso than straight or bridged straps, though the others can still carry the load.

Published October 29, 2026 · 3 min read · Topic: Size, Fit & Comfort · Size & fit

Typical situation

You are comparing two backpacks, one with flat straight straps and one with curved, contoured straps, and wonder which is more comfortable.

Main answer · berabags Editorial Team · Fit view

Contoured straps are less likely to be uncomfortable or to place pressure on the torso. The NC State Ergonomics Center says that straight and bridged straps let you carry the pack with both arms, but do not contribute much to overall comfort and weight distribution.

What the sources say

Shoulder straps can be straight, contoured or bridged.
Straight and bridged shoulder straps provide the ability to carry the pack with both arms, but do not contribute much to the overall comfort and weight distribution of the pack.
By choosing a backpack with contoured shoulder straps, there is a lower likelihood of the straps being uncomfortable or placing unwanted pressure on the torso.
OrthoInfo recommends two wide, padded shoulder straps, and a padded back.
AOTA says that too much pressure on the shoulders and neck can cause pain and tingling in the neck, arms and hands.

How to test a strap

Load the pack with typical weight.
Wear it for several minutes, and walk.
Notice pressure at the collarbone, armpit and shoulder.
Adjust the straps and check again.
Compare two packs back to back.

What matters beyond shape

Width, padding and the length range of the strap matter at least as much as its shape.

A comparison to try

Wear two packs in turn with the same load and spend a few minutes with each. Note which one leaves marks or pressure points after the test. Your own comfort in the shop is better evidence than a description in a catalogue, and a retailer with a fair return policy lets you repeat the test at home.

Where this answer stops

The ergonomics note is a general guide, and body shapes differ. A strap that is comfortable for one wearer may not be for another, so try before you buy.

Sources and further reading

Three more perspectives

berabags Editorial Team · Fit view

Try both with a real load, since the shape that suits one body may not suit another. Look for pressure on the collarbone, the armpit and the front of the shoulder.

berabags Editorial Team · Purchasing view

Look at the width and the padding, as well as the shape. A wide, padded strap of any shape is better than a narrow one.

berabags Editorial Team · Selection view

Check how the strap curves in the shop mirror. A contoured strap should follow the line of your shoulder without gaping or pinching.

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