So after reading this article by Dr. Jordan which defines(and I hope this quote falls under Fair Use laws)
Effective User Torso Length
To account for the position of a hip belt centerline for optimal load transfer (which should be one inch lower than the iliac crest for most people), we herein define an effective user torso length as the user torso length plus one inch.
I interpret this to mean that having an 18.25″ torso means I should lay out the Starlite, get out my tape measure, and measure from 1″ below the top of the hip belt and place the shoulder straps the the attachment nearest to 19.25″ from that point.
Javan, I’m glad I wasn’t the only one nervous when using the force required to detach the velcro. But this is why I’d like to get it right on the first try. Stopping in the middle of a hike to readjust torso length is not my idea of fun.