MT500 Air trekking backpacks

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

Steps:

1/ Loosen all straps and adjust the back according to the different markers proposed 2/ Put on the bag
3/ Put on the belt and tighten it
4/ Tighten the shoulder straps
5/ 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 swinging. This function is provided by these straps.

To adjust them, once the bag is on your back, the belt is buckled and the tension of the shoulder straps is adjusted, simply grab the strap of each restraint over your shoulder 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.

The AIR system is a backpack concept using a net stretched over a metal frame. This system allows air to pass between the user's back and the main body of the backpack. This allows for better ventilation of the back and better drying of the fabric, thus limiting the accumulation of perspiration on the back of the bag and bad odours.

You will be carrying your backpack for several days. So it is important to organise how it’s loaded 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 MT500 AIR and to take full advantage of this light and versatile bag, we recommend not loading it with more than 15kg.
Also be aware that if you are walking for several days and for long periods of time, most mountain professionals recommend that you carry no more than 25% of your own body weight.

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 leaking 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 over your backpack in seconds if its case 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 cover:
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 for 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 the spare parts for your bag by clicking here.

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

Replace a buckle, change out a strap... View the technical diagram for your backpack by clicking here.

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