Kipu

What it does

Kipu is a trekking backpack designed for beginners or those improving their skills. It features the BOA Fit System, gender-specific ergonomic straps, and front-access pockets for balanced packingmaking hiking more accessible, safe, and comfortable.

Your inspiration

The inspiration came from direct observation of the difficulties beginners face during their first trekking experiences. Through a user survey involving 28 participants, we found that many people eventually give up outdoor activities due to problems related to backpack use: poor weight distribution, difficulty adjusting the fit, ineffective space management, and discomfort during extended wear. The concept evolved through several iterations, from sketching load distribution systems to prototyping adjustable hip belts. After identifying the BOA® Fit System as a viable solution, we integrated it into a fully functional and testable prototype.

How it works

Kipu is based on three integrated innovations: BOA® Fit System: Integrated into the right side of the hip belt, which allows gradual adjustment. Rotating the dial tightens the cable, drawing together the two EVA foam pads that form the belt, adapting to the user’s hips without complex straps. Ergonomically differentiated shoulder straps: Designed in two versions: a curved shape for female body types and a straight cut for male ones—they provide optimal comfort while respecting different anatomies. The straps use breathable materials to reduce fatigue during extended use. Simplified adjustment system: The shoulder straps adjust by pulling upward on the lateral strips, enabling symmetrical tightening. This intuitive system eliminates the complexity of traditional adjustments and reduces the risk of error. The design uses sustainable materials like UltraGrid™ 100% recycled nylon and Econyl webbing and features a 45-liter capacity, ideal for 1- to 3-day hikes.

Design process

The design process unfolded through five main phases. It began with in-depth research and analysis, including a study of existing technical components, a market analysis of eight key competitors, and identification of gaps in the sector. Next, the user experience phase involved conducting surveys with 28 users to pinpoint specific pain points, creating journey maps, and defining the target audience as young urban beginners aged 20 to 35. During the ideation phase manual sketching focused on comfort, adaptability, ease of use, and style, followed by initial AI-generated visuals to validate proportions and dimensions. The technical prototyping phase included 3D modeling and the creation of physical prototypes for fit testing. Finally, the refinement phase consisted of iterations based on user feedback, material optimization, and finalizing construction details.

How it is different

Kipu stands out from its competitors in three key ways. It focuses on beginners by specifically catering to those new to trekking, emphasizing ease of use and intuitive design. It is the first trekking backpack to integrate the BOA® System. This is a technology typically found in sports shoes, allowing for micro-adjustments that traditional systems cannot provide. Then, it adopts a gender-specific approach, uniquely offering shoulder straps tailored to male and female anatomy, ensuring superior comfort for both.

Future plans

Kipu has the potential to evolve from a concept into a commercially viable product. This transition involves industrial development through partnerships with outdoor gear makers to ensure scalable production while maintaining quality. The project includes digital services, such as an app to assist beginners with packing, route planning, and community building. Kipu could support outdoor education for youth and collaborate with environmental groups to promote sustainable mountain tourism. The ultimate goal is to position Kipu as a beginner-friendly backpack, making mountains more accessible to a new generation of conscious, prepared hikers.

Awards