backack straps

[thorn]

If the absolute shoulder strap is the best, why not use the same materials in the backpack straps on the travel bags and backpacks?

[aedifica]

I can't speak for TB in this, but my guess is that it's because the Absolute Strap is the best for some things but not for everything. In particular, with shoulder bags you might want a little bit of bounce in the strap because the bag is going to be bouncing a little as you walk (and even there, not everybody wants the Absolute Strap--some prefer the standard shoulder strap), but with backpacks you probably don't need that bounce.

What do others think?

(If you're looking for an official answer instead of general discussion, I recommend emailing [email protected] with the question.)

[BWeaves]

I think the absolute strap is one of the few items sourced from another vendor, while the backpack straps are made in house. Correct me if I'm wrong.

[Cristina]

If the absolute shoulder strap is the best, why not use the same materials in the backpack straps on the travel bags and backpacks?

@BWeaves is right, the Absolute Strap is not made in-house.

I agree with @aedifica regarding why the neoprene hasn’t been adopted for backpack straps. The neoprene is great at absorbing the bounce of a shoulder bag, but I am also not sure that backpacks need that exact same job done, if you know what I mean. The new backpack straps are thicker foam and are doing the job of relieving pressure while the bag is relatively still.

[AlaskaGirl]

Greetings,
This sounds like a good idea in theory. Reality is a different story.

With a backpack, it needs to be tight and stable, without any shifting. If the pack shifts, it can put you off balance. It's unsafe for your back, too. The heavier the load, the more important this becomes. elisa

[terayon]

In addition to the stretch being a problem in this application as mentioned already, the grippy underside would not slide nicely against clothing, which is an asset on a shoulder bag but not on a backpack.