Crux - technical details

CRUX - Technical details

Crux rucksacks are simple and minimalist with a spartan carrying system and a general disdain for cosmetic detail. Closer scrutiny, however, will reveal a subtlety of design driven by function.

Minimum seams

Crux rucksacks involve a minimum of seams. The rucksack body is made of a single piece of fabric sewn to the moulded back panel. The reinforcing base panel is a second layer of fabric top-stitched over the first (a rarity these days) In other words, there is very little to fail.

Tough fabric

Crux rucksacks use a fabric that is twice the weight – and consequently greatly more robust – than the fabrics employed in many competing products, yet still remain lighter (thanks to their minimalist design) than such “ultralight” rivals.

Continuous webbing

The haul loop and top-tension straps represent a single, continuous piece of webbing. None of them is dependant upon stitching into the top seam of the bag: they all pull directly off the frame.
The hip-belt webbing also represents a single continuous piece that wraps right around the back (under the moulded back panel).

Ultralight frame

Developed by us in 2002, the frame in crux rucksacks is stunningly light at 65 g. Although it is now imitated by many brands, we believe our crux frame is still the lightest and stiffest on the market.

Low-profile hip-belt

The low-profile hip-belt, with its minimal foam padding, contours snugly around the body and interferes less with climbing harnesses.

Carrying comfort

Even though the crux “carrying system” lies at the opposite end of the spectrum to the elaborate patented technologies so common today, it supports heavy loads with surprising ease and comfort. Three factors, in particular, are key to the carrying ability and comfort of crux AK rucksacks:

ergonomic fit (all rucksacks over 40 litres are available in a choice of two or three back lengths)
large body-contact area (for load transfer and stability)
the rucksack’s centre of gravity is kept close to the wearer.

Crux AK rucksacks are approaching their tenth year on the market (in 2012). Having set a new standard for lightweight durability, end-use functionality and wearer comfort, they remain unchallenged. Yet in all this time, their design hasn’t changed – a true testament to the outstanding nature of the product.