Camping & Hiking Fitting Guide
From backpacks to boots, the right fit keeps you comfortable and safe on the trail. Choosing properly sized and rated gear reduces fatigue, prevents injuries, and makes your adventures more enjoyable.
⚠️ Important: Hiking and camping carry risks, including injury, exposure, and wildlife encounters. These guidelines are educational only. Renters are responsible for confirming fit, following manufacturer instructions, and using equipment within their experience and training. StompGear assumes no liability for safety or outcomes.
Backpacks
Sizing
- Fit is based on torso length, not height.
- Measure from the base of your neck (C7 vertebra) to the top of your hip bones.
- Pack sizes: XS (<40 cm), S (40–46 cm), M (46–51 cm), L (51–56 cm), XL (56+ cm).
Fit & Adjustment
- Hip belt sits on hip bones, not waist.
- 70–80% of weight should rest on hips, not shoulders.
- Shoulder straps wrap smoothly without gaps.
- Sternum strap stabilizes but shouldn't restrict breathing.
Capacity
- Daypack: 15–35 L.
- Weekend: 35–50 L.
- Multi-day: 50–70 L.
- Expedition: 70+ L.
Youth Note
- Kids should carry no more than 15–20% of body weight.
Hiking Boots & Shoes
Types
- Trail Runners: Light, flexible, good for short hikes.
- Light Hiking Shoes: Sturdy, low-cut, mixed trails.
- Mid/High Hiking Boots: Ankle support for rough terrain.
- Mountaineering Boots: Stiff soles, crampon-compatible.
Fit
- Toes should not hit front when walking downhill.
- Heel should stay locked in place — no lifting.
- Try on with hiking socks (thin, moisture-wicking).
- Allow ½ thumb width space at toes.
Tips
- Break in boots before long trips.
- Double socks or liner socks help prevent blisters.
- Different lacing techniques can adjust fit (heel lock, window lacing).
Tents & Shelters
Capacity
- Ratings assume tight fit. A "2-person" tent fits 2 people with little gear. Size up if carrying gear inside.
Season Ratings
- 3-Season: Spring–fall, light snow, most common.
- 4-Season: Winter use, withstands heavy snow and wind.
- Convertible: Adaptable between 3- and 4-season.
Fit & Features
- Vestibules provide gear storage outside sleeping area.
- Tent height: taller tents = comfort, lower tents = stability.
- Always use a footprint/groundsheet to protect tent floor.
Sleeping Bags
Temperature Ratings
- Based on EN/ISO standards:
- Comfort: For most users to sleep comfortably.
- Limit: For average male to sleep without shivering.
- Extreme: Survival rating only.
Fill Types
- Down: Light, compressible, warm; loses insulation when wet.
- Synthetic: Heavier, bulkier, but insulates when damp.
Fit
- Length should match height with extra space at feet.
- Mummy bags = warmer, snug fit.
- Rectangular = roomier, less efficient.
- Women's and kids' bags are shorter and narrower for better fit.
Sleeping Pads
R-Value (insulation)
- Summer: R 1–2.
- 3-Season: R 2–4.
- Winter: R 4–6.
- Extreme cold: R 6+.
Types
- Closed-cell foam: Light, durable, firm.
- Inflatable: Lightweight, compact, less durable.
- Self-inflating: Balance of comfort and insulation.
Fit
- Pad should cover shoulders to hips at minimum.
- Full-length pads add comfort and warmth.
Trekking Poles
Sizing
- When gripping pole, elbow should form a 90° angle.
- General rule: pole length = ~65–70% of height.
Adjustments by Use
- Shorter for steep climbs.
- Longer for descents.
- Telescoping poles allow multi-use.
Grips
- Cork: absorbent, comfortable.
- Foam: light, fast-drying.
- Rubber: durable, best for cold weather.
Clothing & Layering
Layering System
- Base Layer: Wicks sweat (synthetic or merino wool).
- Mid Layer: Insulation (fleece, down, synthetic).
- Outer Layer: Waterproof/windproof shell.
Fit Tips
- Layers should fit snug but not restrict movement.
- Avoid cotton — retains moisture, increases hypothermia risk.
Safety & Responsibility
Navigation & Planning
- Always carry map + compass; GPS/phones can fail.
- Check weather and trail conditions before heading out.
- Leave a trip plan with someone you trust.
Food & Water
- Minimum 1 L per 2–3 hrs of hiking.
- All natural water sources must be treated or boiled.
- Store food safely in bear country.
Wildlife Safety (BC & Alberta)
- Bears, cougars, and moose can be dangerous — keep distance.
- Carry and know how to use bear spray.
- Never approach or feed wildlife.
Environmental Hazards
- Wildfires: Can spread rapidly. Obey fire bans and evacuation notices.
- Rockslides & Falling Debris: Common in spring/early summer. Stay alert in canyons, steep gullies, or after rain.
- Avalanches: Risk remains in high alpine areas well into summer. Training (AST 1) strongly recommended.
- Rising Waters: Rivers and creeks swell rapidly during snowmelt or heavy rain. Avoid crossings if unsafe.
Training Recommended
- Wilderness First Aid.
- Basic survival (shelter, fire, navigation).
- Avalanche Skills Training (AST).
- Swiftwater awareness if near rivers.
Final Notes
- The outdoors is unpredictable — wildfires, rockslides, avalanches, flooding, and wildlife encounters are real risks in BC and Alberta.
- Renters should have basic survival training before venturing into the backcountry.
- Equipment fit is only one part of safety — skills and preparation matter more.
- Training such as Wilderness First Aid, Avalanche Skills Training (AST 1), and Bear Safety is strongly recommended.
- Always inspect gear before use, dress for conditions, and respect fire bans, trail closures, and local regulations.
⚠️ StompGear fitting guides are provided for education only. Renters are fully responsible for their safety, training, decisions, and outcomes. StompGear does not assume liability for accidents, injuries, or damages of any kind.
Youth Hiking & Camping Reference
⚠️ Safety Notes
- Kids tire quickly — always plan shorter distances than with adults.
- Blister prevention is critical — use liner socks and check feet often.
- Children lose heat faster → ensure warm sleeping bags & proper layers.
Never let kids hike ahead unsupervised in bear or avalanche terrain.