I had several (12) deep spinal injections exactly one year ago. Never in a million years would I have thought I would be able to carry a pack like this weighing 30+lbs on a ten mile hike into the desert (and eventually, days later, ten miles back out). Thanks to this bag taking the pressure off of my shoulders and placing it on my hips, I was able to hike into Havasupai Falls, AZ with all of my gear. Had I not had this pack, I don't think I would have made it in. Im 57, athletic build 125lbs. I highly recommend!