Things That Matter

If mainly on the trail, especially for long distance treks, pack the heavier items in the upper portion of the pack, in order to create a higher center of gravity. This centers the pack weight above your body where it’s easier to carry (on easy to moderate tread).

Men, if going off trail, pack heavier items close to the back in the middle portion of the pack. This will result in better stability when boulder hopping, post-holing, or whatever.

Women naturally have a lower center of gravity than men thus may want to pack as if going off trail – heavier items a little lower in the pack – on all occasions.