Men's Hiking Backpacks

A rucksack designed for the male frame

Men typically have a longer back and broader shoulders, so a men's hiking and trekking rucksack is built with back length, strap shape and a hip belt tailored to this frame. The load settles onto the hips and your stride stays free, even over the long stretches of a trek. A pack properly fitted to your back length — not your height — makes all the difference to comfort on a serious hike.

What capacity in litres suits your trip?

Capacity is measured in litres and depends on how long you'll be walking. For a short outing, 20 to 30 litres is plenty; for a weekend away, step up to a versatile 40L rucksack; and for a self-sufficient trek with tent and sleeping bag, a 50L model or larger becomes essential. To find the right volume, browse all our hiking and trekking rucksacks.

Weight: from lightweight to ultralight

On a long trekking route, every gram counts. A lightweight pack reduces fatigue, and ultralight models in high-tenacity nylon or polyester weigh very little while staying tough. An ultralight rucksack sheds some of its frame structure, so it excels with a moderate load but is a little less suited to bulky, fully-loaded camping gear. It's up to you to weigh up how much weight you're willing to carry.

Carrying comfort, ventilation and rain protection

Check the hip belt, padded shoulder straps and ventilated back panel that lets air circulate in warm weather. For wet weather, a water-repellent fabric or a waterproof rain cover keeps the contents protected in a downpour or steady rain. Side pockets and walking pole attachments round off a well-designed rucksack, ready for the trail.

Men's or women's rucksack: what's the difference?

Men's rucksacks are built with a longer back and straighter shoulder straps, suited to a broader frame. If you're hiking as a pair, take a look at our women's hiking and trekking rucksacks, cut for the other body shape. What matters most is the fit: a rucksack properly adjusted to your back carries better, whatever the model.