Any suggestions on pack frame smaller than 22"s

[Macintosh]

This has been a fun game of charades!

 

[shedhunt]

This has been a fun game of charades!

 

[TaperPin]

As your weight goes down so does the benefit of a hip belt. I like a loose fitting belt with 20 to 25 pounds, but if the day pack was less than 15 lbs a belt is not contributing anything other than keeping the pack centered on the back when picking up something, tying a shoe, or what not. This is one of those cases where it would make sense to buy a few used hiking packs in catching granola colors to try out and you’ll quickly see 15 lbs with a sturdy belt is worse than no belt at all.

 

[HoosierHunter07]

HPG Umlindi

 

[shedhunt]

HPG Umlindi

Thank you

 

[shedhunt]

Here is a setup that I'm thinking could work but with out the bags attached to the bottom making it available to attach the style and type of bag/pouches, etc., that I'd like to have. So of course there would need to be modification and attachment points added where needed but this could be a starting point.

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[HoosierHunter07]

Look at the HPG Decker frame. Comes with 24" aluminum stays but you could trim them down.

 

[nodakian]

Is that the back length or stay length? The packs the op mentioned are for 18-21”ish back lengths, with the difference to 25-26” being the stays protruding above the shoulders for load lifter straps, etc.

Like others, measurements are stay length. For example, an 18" backboard is suitable for about 14"-18" torso height. An 18" torso will have no lifter benefit, but the frame and lumbar pad make for a comfy day pack.

 

[Macintosh]

Here is a setup that I'm thinking could work but with out the bags attached to the bottom making it available to attach the style and type of bag/pouches, etc., that I'd like to have. So of course there would need to be modification and attachment points added where needed but this could be a starting point.

View attachment 981430​

That frame system is also very similar to the popup series of packs. If you could find one of the older popups with the tent-pole stays it might do the same thing and be easier to find.

Maybe also look at some of the upland bird hunting strap vests. Marsupial gear, etc. that is a pretty modular system so might accomplish what you want.