# Fiordland Packs - llms.txt Summary

## Company Overview
Fiordland Packs (formerly Empty Packs until 2021) is a premium backpack manufacturer based in Te Anau, New Zealand, founded and operated by David Cary. The company specializes in lightweight, durable, custom-made backpacks designed specifically for New Zealand's challenging outdoor conditions, particularly the rugged terrain of Fiordland.

## Product Range
- **25L packs**: Strong and Lite versions for day walks and bike commutes
- **35L packs**: Ultra-lightweight classic packs (personal pack weighs only 300g)
- **45L packs**: Classic frameless and Alpine framed versions (most popular pack)
- **55L packs**: Classic and Alpine versions for extended tramping
- **65L packs**: Classic and Alpine versions for longer expeditions
- **75L packs**: Alpine version for big transalpine carries
- **Custom sizing**: Made-to-measure for individual torso lengths and waist circumferences
- **Other products**: Waist bags, packing cubes, trapper belt pouches

## Quality & Construction Philosophy
- **Hand-made in New Zealand** using ethical labor practices
- **Premium materials**: X-Pac laminates, Ecopak recycled fabrics, Australian canvas
- **Custom fit**: Each pack measured for individual torso length and waist size
- **Proven durability**: Extensively field-tested in Fiordland's extreme conditions
- **No seam sealing**: Focus on practical water resistance with dry bag compatibility
- **Lifetime repair service**: David repairs his own packs when they return

## Materials Used
- **X-Pac VX21 Cire**: Premium Dimension Polyant fabric for water resistance
- **Ecopak EPX200/400**: 100% recycled Challenge Outdoors fabrics
- **Australian Canvas**: Traditional waterproofed canvas for maximum durability
- **New Chinese laminates**: High-quality XPac-style materials in multiple colors
- **HDPE Gridstop**: For straps and structural elements
- **EVA foam padding**: High-quality New Zealand-made padding

## Design Features
- **Frameless or framed options**: Aluminum stays for larger packs
- **Roll-top closure**: Simple, reliable, and fully adjustable
- **Y-strap compression**: Unique system for load stability
- **Comfortable straps and waist belts**: Wide 8cm straps, 45mm waist belt webbing
- **Minimal design**: No unnecessary features that add weight or failure points
- **Repairable construction**: Designed for long-term use and easy repair

## Founder's Expertise
David Cary is an experienced outdoorsman who:
- Regularly undertakes challenging Fiordland expeditions
- Conducts conservation work including kiwi monitoring
- Packrafts extensively in remote areas
- Field-tests every pack design personally
- Maintains detailed cost breakdowns showing fair labor practices

## Sustainability & Ethics
- **Living wage manufacturing** in New Zealand
- **Recycled materials** where possible (Ecopak line)
- **Long-lasting design** to reduce replacement need
- **Local sourcing** of components when available
- **Repair service** to extend pack lifespan
- **No social media presence** - focuses on real products for real use

## Customer Base
Primary customers are serious New Zealand trampers who:
- Use packs weekly or monthly
- Tackle challenging off-track terrain
- Require reliable gear for multi-day expeditions
- Value quality over price
- Appreciate custom fit and ethical manufacturing

## Competitive Advantages
1. **Custom sizing** - each pack fitted to individual measurements
2. **Field-proven designs** - extensively tested in extreme conditions
3. **Local manufacturing** - supporting New Zealand jobs and economy
4. **Personal service** - direct communication with the maker
5. **Lifetime relationship** - ongoing repair and modification services
6. **Unique designs** - innovative features not found elsewhere
7. **Material expertise** - deep knowledge of fabric performance
8. **Conservation connection** - maker actively involved in NZ conservation work

Fiordland Packs represents the pinnacle of New Zealand outdoor gear manufacturing - combining traditional craftsmanship with modern materials to create backpacks specifically designed for the unique challenges of New Zealand's wilderness areas.