Haul bags, called affectionately "pigs" by big wall aid climbers, are constructed of slick, industrial-strength vinyl. Some pigs are made of cordura or nylon, but after multiple days being dragged up and banged off of the sides of abrasive rock walls, they won't last quite as long as the vinyl.
Bags are tubular in shape and they have two wide pieces of webbing that wrap vertically all the way down and underneath the bottom of the bag (which is also reinforced) to above the opening of the bag, where they meet and are bar tacked together. Typically one strap is shorter than the other so that when the bag is opened, it does not tilt to one side or the other. The opening of the bag has an extra piece of water-resistant nylon or polyester material that can be pulled up out of the main vinyl bag and opened wide to facilitate ease of packing. It can then be cinched up like a stuff sack with a drawstring or rolled up like a kayaker's dry bag and then strapped into place with an extra belt.
Haul bags also have removable (and sometimes adjustable) backpack straps and waist belts to facilitate easier lugging to the base of and off the top of cliffs. Some designs have an extra compartment where you can tuck fixed straps away. Don't expect to find the comfort of a backpack, however. These babies are for wall climbing not back packing. A stabilizing strap that attaches to the top of the haul bag makes it easier to control a wobbling bag while walking.
Haul bags come in various sizes and are categorized by the amount they can hold, from 2,800 cubic inches to 11,000.
What to Look for
Do your research by questioning true aid climbers about their experiences, reading online reviews and understanding the specs supplied by the companies and find a well-constructed pig. Examine the quality of the stitching and bar tacks. As with clothing, tighter, denser and straighter stitching will last longer and seam tape will reinforce and protect stitching.
Fill up a bag as much as possible while trying them out. Though they'll never be that comfy, it's a good idea to find a bag that fits your waist. Finally, decide how many days you will be out and how often the pig will be used. That should help you figure out what size to get.
Common Pitfalls
Haul bags that hold 11,000 cu. in. are often difficult to pack and unpack because they are so gigantic. Also, it's quite difficult to retrieve gear from the bottom of the haul bag.
One of the biggest pitfalls of the pig is the poor packing techniques of its owner. Climbers should pack things in such a manner as to prevent the bag from bulging in any spots. Sharp edges and bulging items should be nestled in the center of the bag, preferably surrounded by soft goods--clothes, sleeping bags and so forth.
Member Comments