Take a load off your fanny

I once knew a girl in college who seriously thought the chorus to The Band's song The Weight (Take a Load Off Annie), was 'Take a Load Off Your Fanny'. We'd die laughing at her every time the song played. I don't think anyone ever clued her in.

Today, cheap-o fanny packs are out and dynamite daypacks are in. After delving into the backcountry on a recent trip to Rocky Mountain National Park, I jealously admired the myriad of active daypacks strapped on by hikers enjoying our same longer day hikes and ascents. As my over-stuffed, backpack-detachable waist pack (circa 1994) flopped around and dug into my hip bones, new technology packs nestled snugly against hiker backs as their hips and shoulders shared the load. Most offered bladder hydration systems or secure side pockets for 32 oz water bottles.

If you're ready to dump your fanny pack and upgrade to a high-tech daypack, Outside's Gear Guy recommends the following three lightweight beauties:

• Z30 by Gregory: $120 will get you 1,800 cubic inches of load-stable suspension and plenty of pockets.
• Stratos 24 by Osprey: Smaller than the Z30, the harness is sewn into the bag. Sweet load. $129.
• Raid Revo 30 by Salomon: 3,000 cubic inch capacity weighing only 1 lb, 6 ozs. A cheaper $80.

Check out the gallery for photos of these brands, as well as three other options to lighten your fanny.

Running Daypacks(click thumbnails to view gallery)