Best hiking backpack for overweight and big guys

Which is the best hiking backpack for overweight and big guys? Shopping when you are tall can be complicated: you have to look through lots of stores, spend time on the internet reading reviews to find the perfect fit, ask friends for options, etc.

And when it comes to backpacks, things get even more complicated! You have to consider many factors, such as the fit on the torso, the length of the straps, belt sizes… It’s tiring and time-consuming.

But don’t worry, we are here to help you. We’ve spent the past few months comparing different backpack brands, sizes, and materials to create the definitive hiking backpacks guide for taller men.

7 Best backpacks for tall and big guys

1. Osprey Kestrel 48 Backpack

The best feature of this backpack is its sturdy frame, which allows you to carry heavy loads without worrying about tears or leaks. It’s perfect for people with broad shoulders thanks to its adjustable S-shaped straps and hip belt. However, we need to warn you: this backpack is larger and heavier than most, weighing around 4 lbs.

Fortunately, a big and sturdy backpack also means you have more room to carry stuff. The Osprey Kestrel 48 can easily accommodate 20 to 35 lbs of weight and up to 3 liters of water. Also, did we mention that this backpack includes a built-in rain cover? If you’re big and often hike in rainy areas, keep reading!

The Osprey Kestrel 48 is a premium backpack, ideal for rugged men who enjoy regular camping, hiking or climbing. It features an adjustable torso length that adapts to different body types.

What we like:

• Comfortable and adjustable to the torso (19-23″).
• Integrated rain cover.
• Plenty of compartments and space.
• AirScape ridged foam backpanel.

What we don’t like:

• It’s somewhat expensive and heavy, which could be intimidating for novice hikers or campers. However, the manufacturer has an excellent return policy in case you’re not comfortable with their hiking backpack.

Our conclusions:

This climbing backpack is ideal for big camping or hiking enthusiasts who need to carry lot of gear, but don’t want to damage their back.

2. Deuter Futura Pro El 44 L

Living up to its name, Futura boasts a wide range of innovative features to make your hiking more enjoyable.

First, the materials. The Futura Pro EL 44 L uses a combination of Bluesign® 600D polyester and 210D polyamide. This means it’s rugged, durable, and resistant to abrasion damage. Ideal for weekend getaways to the mountains. Also, this hiking backpack boasts AircomfortSensic Pro technology for up to 25% less perspiration. More durability, less sweat.

Second, the fit. The EL in the name stands for Extended Length, which means it’s designed with the specific needs of large buyers in mind. The backpack features an adjustable backrest up to a length of 24 inches. You’ll feel comfortable with it even if you’re over 6’1. Oh, and the best part? All straps are adjustable and ergonomic. Comfort assured!

The combination of these features makes the Futura Pro suitable for different needs, such as hiking, climbing, or camping. It can comfortably carry 23 lbs of weight and has a good range of different sized compartments.

What we like:

• Incredible fit, even for taller men
• Durable and breathable materials
• Perfect for strategic packing thanks to its multiple pockets

What we don’t like:

• Accessing the side pockets can be cumbersome. You may need to loosen the compression straps to do so.
• The hip belt pockets are small.

Our conclusions:

If you’re looking for a comfortable, durable hiking backpack with the perfect pockets for any occasion, the Futura Pro is for you.

3. TETON Sports Fox 5200

At the time of this writing, the TETON Sports Fox 5200 hiking backpack is the most popular for one big reason: it offers top-notch features at a price that won’t break your wallet. It has everything you need to start hiking, as it’s durable, has good lumbar support, and, best of all, its size is ideal for large men.

Some of the qualities that make it the best reviewed hiking backpack on Amazon are: separate sleeping bag compartment, approximately 5200 cubic inches of space (hence the name!), and a good variety of exterior pockets.

What we like:

• Affordable yet durable.
• Amazing space for the price.
• Different pockets and compartments, including space for a sleeping bag.

What we don’t like:

• If your size is average or smaller, it may be uncomfortable, especially in the shoulder area.

Our conclusions:

If you want to start hiking or are looking for an affordable yet practical alternative to carry your gear while camping, you need this backpack.

4. Granite Gear Crown 2 60 L

This hiking backpack’s design aims to be lightweight while offering ample cargo space. The expandable top, waterproof materials, and modular structure make it an ideal choice for experienced hikers who want to tackle different circuits and loads.

Its most notable feature is its weight. The Crown 2 is light for a hiking backpack with a 60 liters volume—only 2.6 lbs! And if you need less space, you can reduce this weight even further by removing the top lid to disconnect the belt and the internal frame of the backpack.

The backpack is made of a 210D and 100D nylon blend, so it’s quite resistant to tears and abrasions. Also, although it doesn’t have an integrated raincoat, its materials repel water easily, so you can use it in wet areas or light rain without worry.

What we like:

• Modular frame design to fit your space and weight needs.
• Water, tear, and abrasion-resistant.
• Extremely lightweight for its volume.

What we don’t like:

• No adjustable torso size. The backpack comes in 3 different fixed sizes.

Our conclusions:

For a large and experienced hiker, with different circuits in mind, the adaptability of this backpack is unrivaled. It’s weatherproof, light, and spacious.

5. Deuter Aircontact Lite

The Deuter Aircontact Lite hiking backpack has only one goal: to be comfortable. Its ErgoX design uses cutting-edge engineering to adapt to your body shape and improve load stability even on uneven terrain. And thanks to its durable foam, your back won’t suffer after the activity.

Another remarkable aspect of this backpack is its compressed air cavity in the back area, which helps reduce perspiration in the area by up to 15%. This cavity also features an ErgoX design for added comfort.

As for the cargo area, the hiking backpack features a protective wet gear compartment, vertically AND horizontally adjustable straps, and can be extended to add 10 liters to its 65-liter base capacity.

What we like:

• Breathable, ergonomic design.
• Proven perspiration reduction.
• Stable even in variable terrain.

What we don’t like:

• Expensive, but the comfort is definitely worth it if you’re big and looking for an ergonomic fit.

Our conclusions:

Adjustable shoulder and hip straps, plus durable foam and ErgoX design make this premium backpack worth the price. If you’re an intense, bulky hiker, get this one.

6. Osprey Exos 61 L

If we could define this hiking backpack in one word, it would be lightweight. It’s the lightest backpack on our list, weighing only 1.24 kg, yet it offers a carrying volume of up to 61 liters. The secret lies in its aluminum structure and the high tenacity nylon (100D) used in its manufacture—working together, they create stability without increasing the weight of the backpack. The Osprey 61 L can safely carry up to 40 lbs.

As if its low weight wasn’t enough, the hiking backpack incorporates AirSpeed technology in its back panel to improve air circulation and help you stay cool even on the most demanding trails. Other notable features are its ability to add hiking poles, remove unnecessary pieces, such as the sleeping bag area, and a comfortable hip belt.

The Osprey 61 L comes in three different sizes and all are adjustable. The L version is the largest, with a torso adjustment ranging from 20 to 23 inches. Even if you’re over 6’4″, you’ll be able to use it without any problems.

What we like:

• It’s very lightweight and versatile.
• It easily adapts to different sizes.
• Minimalist, but with everything you need.

What we don’t like:

• Although water repellent, it does not include a rain cover.

Our conclusions:

The Osprey 61 L is excellent on long trails, as it is comfortable, lightweight, and allows good airflow. Add to this the fact that you can remove unused pads and straps, and you have a great backpack for demanding terrain.

7. Osprey Xenith 75

This hiking backpack is designed for large men who are not afraid to carry equally large loads. It can easily accommodate loads of 40-70 lbs even on unstable terrains, such as rocky cliffs and steep hills. If you travel light, the Osprey Xenith converts into a daypack by simply opening the side zipper—you get the best of two worlds in a single purchase!

Several sections of the backpack can be removed when you don’t need them and has several pockets, plus a daisy chain that you can use to organize your hiking gear.

What we like:

• Durable, heavy-duty hiking backpack.
• Ample space, yet relatively lightweight at only 5 lbs.
• Modular design to fit your needs.

What we don’t like:

• This backpack can be tiring if you are not used to heavy loads.

Our conclusions:

If you need a lot of space to carry your gear in an organized and versatile way, the Osprey Xenith is the one for you.

Additional tips to pick the right hiking backpack

Many hiking backpacks include features that will help you enjoy the trails or better prepare for a camping trip. If you’re taller than the average person, you may want to keep an eye out for them the next time you buy a backpack.

Breathable back panel

Good airflow in the back panel of a backpack is essential to conserve energy and keep you cool during hikes. Always look for breathable materials!

Removable rain cover

Although not necessary, it is important to have additional protection against humidity if you plan to travel in rainy regions. A removable cover keeps your gear dry and makes it easy to take it out when you need it.

Extra-large hip belt

The belt is the core of your backpack. Thanks to it, the weight is distributed efficiently while you walk. If the belt is not comfortable, sooner or later you will feel discomfort that could affect your hike.

Check if more than one size is available

If possible, look for hiking backpacks in different versions and try them out before making a decision. Keep in mind that you will need to be comfortable with the fit at the shoulders, torso, belt, and back, and one-size-fits-all backpacks may not be the solution.

We know how difficult it can be to find gear when you’re tall, so we hope this guide help you get the most out of your passion. We will keep an eye on new releases to update it if necessary!