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Front storage that genuinely changes how a pack carries
Aarn Packs says:
The Universal Balance Pockets are an essential piece of kit that allows you to carry loads with more ease! Enjoy many of the benefits of the Aarn Packs System while using your current pack. Our Universal Balance Backpack Pockets are designed to help balance your load while using non-Aarn branded backpacks. They work on the same principles as our Aarn Balance Pockets, offering increased energy efficiency, strain relief and convenient access.
Will they work on my backpack? They are thoughtfully designed to fit any brand of backpack that uses a hip belt and shoulder straps. Aarn Universal Balance Pockets are attached to the backpack once you have put the pack on and are unclipped before you take the pack off.
How do I attach to my current backpack? Firstly, while not wearing the pack, secure the top two detachable clips to the shoulder straps above the sternum strap area. You can keep the top parts of the buckles attached to your pack permanently. For everyday use, put your pack on, clip in the top buckles, and then tuck the bottom bracket behind your hip belt and use the velcro in front of the hip belt to secure it.
How do I remove the backpack pockets? Undo the velcro to remove the hip belt attachment and unclip the top buckles. Leave the top part of the buckles on your pack for easy putting on and off.
Our Verdict
The Universal Balance Pockets are an interesting accessory; they offer a way to try Aarn’s front-load balancing system without committing to a full Aarn pack. The concept can look unusual at first, but in practice, the biggest benefit is not extra storage; it is accessibility and improved load distribution.
The front storage makes water, snacks, gloves and camera gear far easier to reach without stopping. I also like that Aarn includes removable dry liners and a shoulder strap, allowing the pockets to double as a compact shoulder bag in town or around camp.
The system can feel bulkier than a normal pack setup, and clipping the pockets on and off adds a little extra faff. For long-distance walkers, photographers, or anyone curious about Aarn’s load-balancing philosophy, though, they offer a surprisingly practical introduction to the system.
- Reviewed by Ultralight Outdoor Gear
Features
- 2 separate pockets with a gap in the centre to give 'see-your-feet' visibility for wilderness walking & rough terrain.
- 4 x mesh exterior pockets & 2 x bottle neck holders.
- 2 waterproof dry liners.
- Top carry handle for use when not attached to your pack.
- Reflective tabs for night safety.
- Removable clip on padded shoulder strap.
- Sling included to carry the pocket as a shoulder pack.
- Additional spare clips available (sold separately).
Specifications
Small
- Weight: 501g
- Dimensions: W 36cm x D 12cm x H 33cm / W 14.1in x D 4.7in x H 12.9in
- Litres: 10L in pockets + 1L in mesh outside pockets
Regular
- Weight: 567g
- Dimensions: W 37cm x D 12cm x H 36cm / W 14.5in x D 4.7in x H 14.1in
- Litres: 12L in pockets + 2L in mesh outside pockets
Material & Construction
- Main: 210D Duramax Oxford
- Bottom: 210D Robic Gridstop with UHMWPE
