Gossamer Gear shoulder straps – mods?

I have the first generation Gorilla pack and I had the same problem. So I called Gossamer Gear and for a modest fee I had them alter the straps. I got a silver marking pen and drew on the straps a curve on the inside of both straps where I wanted them to cut them out and sew a new hem. They sent the pack to a local Austin seamstress they use for things like that and a few weeks later I had my pack back. It wasn't a professional looking job but it did the trick and and has held up fine for several years. And yes, it took away the discomfort of the straps completely.

Thanks for the reply. They still offer the modifications in Austin, and I just sent my pack to them today with paper cutouts taped to the straps where I would like them trimmed. I asked if they could put new staps or replace the foam with something softer but no can do, trimming only.

Glad to hear it eliminated the discomfort! I have about a half inch on each side marked for trimmimg. About how much did you have trimmed?

Edit: its actually in Colorado now where they do the mods.

Bringing this thread back. Can any of you who've done the strap modification via Gossamer Gear's tailor/seamstress provide photos? I recently purchased a Kumo and am having some neck strain and slight pinching due to the straps. Is it because the straps come off the back panel parallel to the pack instead of a "Y" shape like many other manufacturers?

RE: The Kumo …. I'm in the same boat. LOVE the pack, HATE the shoulder straps. My traps hated me for two days after my last trip @ just 11lbs.

Not sure if there's a sure fire alteration, but I know GG just released the new Gorilla and the straps look completely redone.

It is totally worth it to send your pack back to GG to have it altered. Before I sent it back I loaded up my Gorilla with about 15 lbs and after only five minutes of walking around the block I could tell it wouldn't work. So I contacted GG and they said to send it to their third party sewer and they can take half moons out of the straps. When I got it back it was like night and day. After a few trips with the pack I am super stoked with the results. Most comfortable I have ever been while backpacking, it's like the pack isn't even there especially with less than 15 pounds.

I tried to have them cut out shapes in the straps exactly how I wanted it but when they received the pack they contacted me and said they can only do half moons. I was a bit weary that the shape and placement they chose wouldn't be comfortable but I was wrong. I will try to get some pics up. It cost 25 dollars plus shipping to CO, they paid shipping back to me and it was about a week and a half turnaround. The quality of the work wasn't that great (couple loose threads) but looks like it is holding up and easily stitched if a thread actually comes loose.

DO IT! Your shoulder will be happy! Of course, YMMV.

PS- the new GG packs, IMO, look so ugly. And they are heavier. The straps are the only thing I like about them.

Benji