Quote:
I pull the straps reasonably tight, which then has the effect of pulling the hip belt up to being a waist belt.


Might mean that the pack is too short, and that you need a pack with longer torso length.

Pack fit is almost as individual as shoe fit, and getting a proper fit usually means trying a number of different makes and models, preferably with your gear inside. There are articles on the home page of this site which will help you. REI has several good videos on their site about fitting and adjusting backpacks.



Edited by OregonMouse (09/10/16 12:28 PM)
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May your trails be crooked, winding, lonesome, dangerous, leading to the most amazing view--E. Abbey