Backpacks today look nothing like the metal and canvas contraptions of the 1970s. Removable internal supports made of plastic have replaced external frames, and ripstop nylon now reigns supreme. No ...

In 1952, Kelty introduced one of the first external aluminum frame backpacks. Now, 60 years later, that same company is putting a version of its widely-praised external aluminum frame on luggage.

In this column last month, I covered two major companies, Kelty and JanSport, who will introduce retro-style, external-frame backpacks in 2011. The article pitched external-frame packs as throwbacks - ...

We explain the differences and benefits of an external frame backpack vs internal to see if there’s a good argument for resurrecting the traditional pack for long treks . | Credit: Joel Carillet ...

In this column last month I covered two major companies, Kelty and JanSport, who will introduce retro-style, external-frame backpacks in 2011. The article pitched external-frame packs as bulky, ...