When I started mixing trail running into my backpacking in 2014, I tried using my running vest as my pack but needed more volume. The obvious answer? Add a fanny pack!
As I experimented with this modular system, I began seeing advantages beyond just the volume. I appreciated the freedom of movement when running, and the partial load transfer I could get to my hips. Further exploring this, I created a way to clip the fanny pack to the vest so it could act as a single unit, or be loosened for more agility.
The 2015 Test
After tinkering around with the idea through 2014, I put the system through its biggest test in 2015 when I hiked 800 miles of the PCT in a month, along with sections of the Colorado Trail. I loved it! Leaving town with a full resupply, I'd keep the fanny pack cinched tight to the vest so the two pieces acted as one unit, enjoying the load transfer to my hips. As I worked through the food and the pack got lighter, I'd start loosening the connection between the two pieces and cover more ground by running.
With the pieces loosened, they'd clamshell open when leaning forward on a steep climb. The looser connection also let the top rotate and shift past the bottom instead of fighting it. And when I needed to, I could unclip the fanny pack entirely and spin it around to the front, useful for grabbing something on the fly or restocking snacks in the vest's pockets without stopping to dig through the main pack.
How It Got Its Name
During my first test of the system on the Appalachian Trail, a runner came up behind me and said it looked like I was wiggling my butt as I went. The pack affectionately became known as the Wiggle Pack, and we've been calling it that ever since.
Shrike Compatibility
We designed The Shrike with the Wiggle Pack in mind and included buckles so it's ready for the day we bring the fanny pack into production.
What's Next
While we don't have an ETA, the fanny pack is our primary design project. As it comes further along, we'll start seeking Shrike owners willing to test prototypes and help us dial in the design.
The Wiggle Pack is a YAMA Labs project. Labs is where we share the gear we're working on, make early releases available, and open up testing opportunities. Head over to the Labs page to see what else is in the works!