Article Surfing Archive

* Is it possible to replace the wheel on my backpack?

Yes. Wheels on backpacks can be replaced, especially if backpacks are branded. There are also detachable wheels on backpacks which can be removed or replaced when worn out.

* How can I replace the zipper on my backpack?

If the zipper on your backpack is worn out or broken you need to follow some simple steps for replacing it.

Categorize what type of zipper your backpack uses.

- Conventional zippers are designed having two fabric strips connected at one end and stops on the other end preventing slider to run off the zipper.

- Invisible zippers are similar to conventional zippers having two fabric strips connected at one end only that the zipper tape covers the mechanism of the zipper visible only on its reverse side.

- Separating zippers are created with bottom stops uniquely designed allowing the separation of fabric tapes like that of the zipper in jackets.

Learn every part of the zipper to determine which parts are replaceable.

- Tape refers to the woven cloth or fabric of the zipper.

- Teeth are vislon pieces in which the zipper pull runs along opening or closing the zipper.

- Coil is the continuous coil located on the tape edge able to open or close when zippers pulls run along it.

- Top stops are removable or replaceable metal or plastic piece located on the top of coil or teeth stopping the zipper pull.

- Bottom stop is found on the base of separating zippers. It cannot be repaired or replaced.

- Zipper pulls are replaceable material that enable your to open or close the zipper.

- Reversible zipper pulls can be used for a regular zipper pull replacement to create a reversible zipper.

- Add on zipper pulls are extra tab pieces incorporated into the existing zipper pull for easier zipper opening.

If the zipper of your backpack is found to be defective during your purchase then you must go to the store where you bought it and ask for a replacement. This is covered by the warranty service.

If you know the right zipper for your backpack go to sewing stores to replace worn out or broken zippers.

* How do I adjust the straps on my backpack?

There are several straps on your backpack with different purposes and adjustments. Straps in your backpacks are designed for proper body fitting adjustments.

- Buckled straps or the pelvic load adjusters are located between the pack bag frame and hip belt. Tightening the buckled straps will permanently hold your loads in place without shifting or swaying from either of the backpack sides. However this procedure minimizes your total mobility but it provides higher load control helpful in vertical terrain.

- Padded shoulder harness straps are straps designed to smoothly fit your shoulders and can be adjusted according to various point of attachment on the pack.

- The shoulder load adjuster straps are attached to the shoulder harness at the collar bone passing over shoulders attaching high ups on the pack. This should be elevated at 45 degrees angle which is considered as the neutral angle when the pack is weighed. The weight will drop to the waist if these straps are angled greater than 45 degrees allowing a top heavy load and shifting it while angles lower than 45 degrees will overload your shoulders.

- The sternum straps keep the shoulder straps steady on your shoulders. This can be adjusted by moving it either up or down on the shoulder harness riding it above the chest part which expands upon breathing. You can experimentally adjust the sternum strap tensions to find out what is the comfortable adjustment fitted for you under different trail and load conditions.

* How much does it cost to have my backpack repaired?

Repairing your backpack is usually included under the warranty laws. If manufacture defects such as seam, zipper or suspension flaws are discovered after the purchase then the repair will be free of charge by returning the backpack to the store from which it was purchased. However, if it is a user's defect then you can return it to the manufacturer and the repair may not be free, but it may be less expensive.