Three-piece system designed with 1” close-cell foam as well as an additional layer of “smart foam” in the lumbar region The lumbar system is designed to allow for adjustability by easy access to the foam insert providing complete customization dependent upon the user.
We use “Slip-Not” material on the lumbar region to make sure the pack system does not slide on your back even in the hottest environments with heavy loads.
New2" Ladder Lock compliments the 2" dual-adjust buckles and insures efficient tightening and "on-demand" loosening of the belt.
3-D spacer mesh is utilized for added comfort and breathability.
Our hip belt structure is heavily reinforced to support the toughest carrying condition.
The triaxial carbon fiber structure combined with additional strategically placed composite materials provides the greatest strength to weight ratio on the market. We are confident in delivering a frame that is not only comfortable, but provides the ability to haul extremely heavy loads.
The key to the frame’s design is its shape. This allows the heaviest load to be positioned in the center of your back by spreading the weight over your hips, minimizing muscle fatigue and shoulder strain. To stay cooler in hot conditions, the shape maintains air flow around your back. The frame also follows the natural curvature of your spine, providing extreme comfort in all conditions.
We offer a 1-year warranty for any material defects and workmanship to the original purchaser.
Yes. All IA packs work off of a single frame and suspension system. You can interchange the bags and Pannier Load Carrier at will. No need to buy a separate suspension system.
The material we use is a 500D Cordura which is very water resistant but not waterproof. If your hunting in wet environment, we recommend our IA Rain Cover.
Yes. We have the Integrous Frame for torso lengths from 18-22".
And our Invictus Female Frame for torso lengths 13-17". This frame will also work for kids who fall into that torso length range.
It does come standard with the IA Day Pack, but it does not come with the IA3K, the IA5K, or the IA8K Pack Systems. The Pannier isn't required for packing meat, but we definitely recommend it.
This buck was taking at 11,400 feet. 2 miles in and the pack weight was around 90 pounds with deer and gear.
Initial Ascent packs are built for this and it shows.
The belt is fine not great. I have probably 60 miles of training with it on so it should be plenty broken in by now. The previous generation seemed to have better hip pads and shape. The straps that connect to the shoulders slips constantly which is not an issue I had before. I’m incredibly disappointed in the grey only option. For a bag that was sold as my rest of life bag not having the ability to fix portions of the bag or at the very least continue to offer like replacements really is a bummer.Looks are not really important but I feel like it is far too light. It hasn’t gotten bloody yet but it seems like it will be hard to keep clean.
Originally ordered my pack with a medium belt. After many training hikes I decided to get the small belt. The medium was already at the smallest I could adjust it and felt like it was too big. Tried out the small belt and it fits great. For reference I wear a size 32 pant, 5’11” and hover just under 180lbs.
Best packs ever! After many pack outs I swapped out the belt. Stoked for the fresh padding! Full pack refresh for a fraction of the cost of replacement. Keep up the great work IA. See you in the mountains.
Harlan
I had to exchange a medium for small. I think the sizing runs large. I wear 32 waist size pants. The medium was too large and the small has plenty of room. The belt is really comfy now.
Loads of 30 to 45 seemed to work great but over felt like all the pack did was try to keep falling down/bouncing onto my ass with that adjustable lumbar support system. Could not figure out where to adjust it to that it would stop it from happening nor the straps at the back corners of the belt. I would loosen them tighten them it seem to make zero difference. But with all the other issues with this pack not sure if it is worth the hassle to switch over.
I've tested out a lot of belts over the years and this is by far one of the most comfortable ones I've ever worn with a lot of weight in the pack. The lumbar support is outstanding, and quality is unmatched. If you're in the market for a new pack system, I would absolutely go with this one.
I ordered the smaller waist belt for summer training. I am right on the medium / small for sizing , summer size small and medium when extra layers are needed. Could have done everything with the medium but for the price I have a perfect setup for any condition.
Great quality great company friendly people.
The hip belt is great and Initial ascent has fantastic customer service. I would recommend anyone to purchase from this company and support them. My hip belt broke due to my own mistake and they were fantastic to work with and put me back out in the field. When you need support with your purchased items from initial ascent, they never skip a beat to help. The CEO Joe even reached out to make sure my problem was taken care of and to give me updates on my hip belt. Great company that I will continue to purchase from and support.
Love it! Although I wear a size 32 pants the medium belt was cinched all the way down, no room for weight loss. Super easy to install, leaves plenty of room on the belt for cinching tighter (or getting bigger)and feels great.