Who wants credit for this one?

[HikerGuy]

Does anyone have tips on how to combat sweaty pack back? That's my main problem.

[highpilgrim]

My Deuters have a mesh standoff component that lets air circulate between the pack and your back. It would likely work less well when you're wearing a lot of outer clothing but works well in the summer and shoulder seasons.

Good packs, all around.

[Conor]

Does anyone have tips on how to combat sweaty pack back? That's my main problem.

have you tried anti perspirant or baby powder on your back?

[HikerGuy]

My Deuters have a mesh standoff component that lets air circulate between the pack and your back. It would likely work less well when you're wearing a lot of outer clothing but works well in the summer and shoulder seasons.

Good packs, all around.

My winter pack is an Osprey Atmos 35 that has the mesh air panel thing-a-bob. As you said, useful in summer, but not so much in winter. What I need is a fleece vest that has the back cut out where the pack rides or something with fleece on the front and thin material in the back.

[pvnisher]

What I need is a fleece vest that has the back cut out where the pack rides or something with fleece on the front and thin material in the back.

I have three pieces which work well with packs.

A Jack Wolfskin Tasman, which has a puffy chest/front, but a stretch fleece back and arms. So that's nice with a pack. Even though your back will still get sweaty, it dries so much faster.

Second is a biking vest. Windproof chest and mesh back.

And third is a sierra designs thin jacket with gridded fleece everywhere but windproof panels on the chest and front.

I don't use the biking vest while hiking or climbing, but the other two are great.
Your back will get sweaty with a pack. Just how it is. But making it less sweaty (less insulation and also material which carries moisture away) and faster to dry (not down) minimize the impacts.

[NathanRL]

What I need is a fleece vest that has the back cut out where the pack rides or something with fleece on the front and thin material in the back.

I’ve got the Patagonia Nano Air Hybrid, which I think was designed for exactly this. Would recommend, if you want to pay Patagucci prices (I got mine of their “worn wear” site, but still.)