In March 2024, we introduced some thrilling new modifications to the Mariposa 60 and Gorilla 50 backpacks, together with redesigned load lifters, up to date colorways, and our patent-pending PVT Body+Belt system. We additionally listened to our prospects about sizing wants and used that suggestions to supply various hipbelt choices for each packs.
In case you missed it, the Mariposa 60 and Gorilla 50 hipbelts now are available two totally different suits and a number of sizes. They’re designed to hug your physique for optimum weight switch. Under, we dig into the small print of this modification and the way to choose the right match for you. Get able to say howdy to much less chafing and extra consolation.
How Have the Hipbelts Modified on the Mariposa and Gorilla Backpacks and Why?
The hipbelts on the Mariposa 60 and Gorilla 50 backpacks have been up to date to work as a part of our patent-pending PVT Body+Belt system. This technique makes use of an aluminum, closed-shape body that slips right into a pocket on the again heart of the PVT Hipbelt. The body and hipbelt work collectively to permit your pack to maneuver along with your pure gait. As your hips and pelvis tilt and rotate along with your climbing stride, the decrease finish of the body is free to maneuver forwards and backwards throughout the pocket. The PVT Hipbelt comes with:
- Two giant zippered hip pockets
- Straight or curved suits in 5 sizes for larger measurement and form inclusivity
- Heart pocket to accommodate the PVT Body
- Foam-cushioned consolation
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Sturdy weight switch wrap
- Robust recycled Robic cloth
We up to date our hipbelts to accommodate this new system. Nevertheless, that’s not the one replace we made. Our design crew additionally reviewed the match and sizing of our belts.
Our bodies aren’t one-size-fits-all. Everybody is available in totally different proportions and everybody deserves to have gear that’s snug for them. With this in thoughts, Gossamer Gear now provides our PVT Hipbelt in two totally different suits: straight and curved. These suits think about totally different waist-to-hip ratios.
Additionally they are available a number of sizes for extra customization. The straight-fit hipbelts are provided in small, medium, and enormous. The curved-fit belts are provided in two sizes: S/M and M/L.
How Do I Determine Out My PVT Hipbelt Match and Measurement?
Begin by determining your hip measurement. Discover your iliac crest by cupping your hip bones on each side (take a look at our weblog on the way to measurement and match a backpack for extra info). Then, wrap a delicate measuring tape or string across the prime of your iliac crest. This may inform you your hip measurement.
Subsequent, decide your waist measurement. Utilizing the identical delicate measuring tape or string, discover the smallest a part of your midsection—sometimes 1 to 2 inches above your stomach button—and measure round that space. This may inform you your waist measurement.
Then, calculate your waist-to-hip ratio (WHR). Divide your waist measurement by your hip measurement. If the result’s 0.85 or decrease, you’ll probably want a curved hipbelt. Whether it is increased than 0.85, you’ll probably want a straight hipbelt.
Lastly, use your hip measurement to pick out the best measurement.
For the curved belt, order a S/M measurement for hip measurements between 28.5 inches and 56 inches, and the M/L measurement for these between 32.5 inches and 60 inches.
For the straight match, anticipated sizes correspond with the next hip measurement ranges:
- Small: 26 inches to 53.5 inches
- Medium: 30 inches to 57.5 inches
- Giant: 34 inches to 61.5 inches
When you’re uncertain which hipbelt form will match finest, we suggest buying each a straight and curved match to dial in what works finest for you. Everybody’s anatomy is totally different.

What Hipbelts Come Commonplace on the Mariposa and Gorilla Backpacks and How Can I Choose a Totally different Possibility?
When you order a Gorilla 50 or Mariposa 60 backpack in measurement small, it mechanically comes with a S/M curved-fit hipbelt. When you order one of many packs in medium or giant, it would include a medium straight-fit hipbelt.
Nevertheless, you’ll be able to all the time swap out the usual belt for an additional measurement. The method for getting a unique sized PVT Hipbelt is so as to add the extra desired belt to your order, change the hipbelts in your pack at dwelling, after which return the unique belt for a $25 refund.
For detailed directions on the way to change the hipbelt in your pack, take a look at our video on swapping out a PVT Hipbelt.
Take pleasure in Higher Consolation With Enhanced Hipbelt Sizing and Match Choices
The newest era of Mariposa 60 and Gorilla 50 backpacks is all about optimizing consolation and performance. With elevated match and sizing choices, we hope you’re capable of finding a hipbelt that helps you’re feeling empowered in your badass backpacking physique whereas on path.
We’d like to see your new Gorilla 50 or Mariposa 60 backpack in motion! Be certain to tell us the way you prefer it and share the enjoyable with us by tagging Gossamer Gear on social media (@gossamergear) and utilizing the hashtag #takelessdomore.
Hungry for extra backpacking gear and planning information? Take a look at a few of our different articles on the Gentle Ft weblog: