Sharing Pack Weight
My boyfriend always gets annoyed that I load our heavier items into his pack. I think that since he weighs 30% more than me, his pack can be about 40% heavier, adding 10% for M/F differences in hematocrit, VO2 max, etc. Reasonable?
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Question:
My boyfriend always gets annoyed that I load our heavier items into his pack. I think that since he weighs 30% more than me, his pack can be about 40% heavier, adding 10% for M/F differences in hematocrit, VO2 max, etc. Do you think this is reasonable?
Submitted by – Aubrey – Cambridge, MA
Answer:
I’m not sure about hematocrit and VO2 max, but I can tell you this: If he’s 30 percent heavier than you, he should be carrying 30 percent more weight. The rule of thumb—regardless of whether you’re male or female—is that you shouldn’t carry more than 30 percent of your body weight.
Now, many people can safely carry more, depending on their fitness level. And many people whine if they have to carry even less than that. I’m no couples counselor, but you guys will just have to work it out based on what’s comfortable for you both. The last thing you want to be doing on your trip is fighting about pack weight!
One thing’s for sure: you could both probably stand to shave some weight from your packs. Check out this Ultralight Makeover story for some great tips: