MT500 TREKKING BACKPACK

The correct adjustment of your backpack is really important in order to walk in the best possible conditions and not to injure your back.

The steps:
1/ Loosen all the straps
2/ Adjust the back according to the different markers proposed
3/ Put the bag on
4/ Put the belt on and tighten it, the weight of the bag is mainly on the hips
5/ Tighten the back straps of the belt and then those of the shoulder straps
6/ Adjust the load restraints and the chest strap

Load restraints are straps placed at the top of each shoulder strap of your backpack.
Because of the adjustable back height of your bag (thanks to the shoulder straps), it is necessary to adjust the position of the shoulder strap in relation to the bag to limit its swing. This function is provided by these straps.

To adjust them, once the bag is on your back, the belt is buckled and the shoulder strap tension is adjusted, simply grab the strap of each restraint over your shoulders and pull them forward until you feel the bag hug your back.
To control its stability, you can shrug your shoulders a few times and take up tension if necessary.

You will be carrying your backpack for several days. Thus, it is important to organise the loading of the vehicle in such a way as to find a front/back and left/right balance. This is because your body may tire more quickly if the distribution of your bag is unbalanced.

So, below are our tips on which parts of your equipment should be placed at the bottom, middle and top of your backpack.

All our backpacks are tested to withstand a minimum dynamic load of 25kg (i.e. repeated impacts to the shoulder straps).
However, to ensure the comfort of the TREK 500, we recommend not to load the bag with more than 20kg. Furthermore, if you are walking for several days and for long periods of time, it is recommended that you do not load your bag with more than 25% of your own weight, i.e. 18kg for a 70kg walker.

At FORCLAZ, as with most manufacturers, our backpacks use water-repellent but not waterproof components. Indeed, designing a 100% waterproof bag requires the sealing of every seam line as well as the use of very expensive special zips. That's why all our bags are equipped with a protective cover to put over your bag in case of rain.

To each their own style! There are many ways to protect your belongings while trekking, each with its advantages and disadvantages.

Poncho cape:
In terms of external protection for the bag, the poncho is undoubtedly the most effective solution as it allows the user and the bag to be completely covered, without the risk of infiltration at the back. The main problem is the lack of mobility and convenience when it comes to putting your bag down or accessing it.

Rain cover:
Lightweight and quick to install, the rain cover is an exterior protection. It fits on your backpack in seconds when its housing is accessible from the outside (which is the case with our latest bags like the MT500 AIR). In a group, everyone can help their neighbour to put it on without anyone having to put their bag down.
When coloured, they are a practical visibility feature in fog or at night.
The disadvantage of rain covers is that they do not protect the shoulders. In the event of heavy rain, it is not uncommon for water to seep through the back of the bag and it is therefore necessary to protect your most sensitive items in small waterproof bags.
On the other hand, rain covers are susceptible to holes and tears.

Reinforced rain covers:
Like the classic version, this cover protects against rain and has two sides: a classic visible side (orange) and a reinforced dark side to better resist cuts and holes that can be caused by branches. However, they are heavier.

Water-repellent storage cases:
Available in a variety of sizes, the waterproof storage covers allow you to better store your belongings in your bag and protect them from moisture. The only problem is remembering what you put in it or you might have to look through your belongings. Beware, these cases are not completely waterproof. They are therefore not suitable for long exposure to water (do not use outside the bag).

Waterproof storage cases:
More resistant and above all 100% waterproof, these covers are ideal for protecting very sensitive equipment or for protecting items outside the bag. Unfortunately their plastic structure makes them stiffer and heavier.

Decathlon backpacks are designed to be strong and durable and undergo extensive testing (components, seams and finished product) to ensure that they serve you for as long as possible.
We offer a 10-year warranty on all our backpacks from the date on the receipt.

View the technical diagram and find spare parts for your bag by clicking here.

Need to repair your backpack? View the technical diagram by clicking here.

Does a part of your backpack need replacing? View the technical diagram by clicking here.

A buckle to change, a strap to replace... View the technical diagram for your backpack by clicking here.