Compression Straps

[Johnny_Z]

What are these for? I see them on Maxpedition packs and such and can't see a reason for them other than looking cool.

 

[Point44]

It's what they say it is. To compress the contents of the pack and make the pack smaller. It's very useful when you don't have a lot of stuff in the pack. That way you won't have your stuff shaking about inside.

I always use the compression straps on my Macpac rucksack and my Maxpedition baby condor. I don't always fill it up fully so the straps are nice.

 

[Sid Post]

Point44 hit it.

Try putting a couple cans of beans in a pack without strapping them down. walking makes noise, running hurts. Then there is the excess bulk that hangs on train doors and luggage racks. Cinch it down and keep it from snagging on things. A small axe or hatchet in a large pack unsecured will beat you into submission in no time if you walk or run very far.

 

[tonyccw]

It's what they say it is. To compress the contents of the pack and make the pack smaller. It's very useful when you don't have a lot of stuff in the pack. That way you won't have your stuff shaking about inside.

There's also another major functional advantage. It centers the center of gravity for your pack's contents so it makes it easier to carry one heavy pack, rather than one that's heavy but constantly shifts the CG when the contents are loose and bounces around inside.