Lumbar pain, muscle cramps, bruises, and hip discomfort. These are common complaints on the trail, especially among seasoned hikers and backpackers who have spent years pursuing adventure. Which is why technical-pack designers are increasingly taking ergonomics—the science of tailoring products and workplaces according to how the human body functions—into consideration. Don't let poor design sideline you from the trail. Instead, select a body-friendly pack.

Earlier this year, OSPREY unveiled Aether AG and Ariel AG packs for men and women, in multiple sizes, with a capacity to carry 82 to 88 liters (Aether) and 69 to 75 liters (Ariel). Because no two hikers are shaped alike, each pack features a lightweight mesh back panel, extending from the upper torso through the lumbar area. Designed to conform to the contours of a wearer's back, this proprietary "anti-gravity" suspension system—which relies on a light wire—helps to uniformly distribute a load's weight. $290 to $330, ospreypacks.com

COTOPAXI'S Taboche (55 liters) boasts an adjustable back panel and a main compartment designed to keep gear centered. $190, cotopaxi.com

THE NORTH FACE's 65-liter Banchee 65 has a lightweight aluminum frame supporting a proprietary suspension system. $239, thenorthface.com

The 60-liter Crown2 from GRANITE GEAR fetched Best of Show at last summer's Outdoor Retailer Market, thanks to its adjustable waist settings. $199, granitegear.com

Tailored for women, W's Siouxon from PLATYPUS offers a comfortable mesh back panel. $140, platy.com

This article appeared in the May/June 2017 edition with the headline "Back in Style."