Pack Compression Systems: Web straps vs. Single Cord

I would say web straps are a lot easier to adjust, but they weigh more. This is especially true if the straps have buckles. I have straps like that on my day pack, and really like the speed and flexibility. But when I'm counting ounces, like on a backpack, I prefer cord.

Vaude has used this system on many of their Rock Ultralight packs. I like the system and had no problems.

Granite Gear is using line for compression straps on a number of their newer designs. Speaking of Granite Gear, they are also using 11m webbing on some of their other packs, which is a good compromise of you want something tougher.

You save weight on webbing and hardware both, as the hardware gets smaller and lighter along with the line. You might ask for a few spare bits of hardware so you can have identical replacements in the future.

Mark, I'd say your analysis is dead on. Cord compression can work ok with traditional thruhiking type loads. If it's one single cord unit there can be a tendency for all the slack (and thus the load itself) to migrate down.

I prefer traditional webbing compression straps, but if you're not likely to be hauling weird shaped stuff like skis or snowshoes, and unlikely to need your pack compressed down a lot, cord will work.

I have 2 GG packs, a Blaze AC 60 and a Crown VC. Both use cordage for the compression straps. If you honor the advised total weight limits (35lbs and 25lbs respectively) they work great.

I too would question how well they would work on anything other than a lightweight or ultralight pack.

I can't recall where I've seen the mod, but instead of a single cord on each side, why not 2-3 cords plus linelocs, set up like web straps. Light, simple, fine-tunable compression control.

OTOH, I find most compression straps useless for compression. My pack volume is relatively constant – full. As I eat food, my sleeping bag expands to fill the space. The best side straps are the ones I can hang gear from, one on each side.

— Rex

+1 to what Dave said. I have used both and prefer the straps to the cord, easier to adjust. I think Will Reitveld said he prefers 3 straps to 2.

The cord systems I have seen are one cord on each side in a 'z' pattern… one pull, one cord. Which means… you can't compress the top and bottom of the pack differently if you want.

With straps you can customize the compression, the straps being separate.

I prefer the straps. Plus… so me of the cord attachments on some packs look suspect… not sure I'd want to really cinch them down with force…

bill

The mchale website says that zig-zagging cord all the way up the side of a standard size pack is heavier than 2 pieces of webbing and plastic tighteners – and doesn't synch / control the load as well. So my guess is the weight savings is small on an UL pack.

I personally find straps with quick releases to be the minimal level of convenience I want. Try strapping snowshoes, or a foam pad or a rain jacket, or a fleece, or a wet tent under a zigzag cord and then decide if the extra ounce or two for buckles is worth carrying :)