So, I'm looking at a DIY pack ( http://www.rayjardine.com/ray-way/Ba...-Kit/index.htm ) and the standard model of kit comes with no waist belt. Further, they seem to go out of their way to explain why waist belts are a waste on trails. They do say that if they are Alpining, etc., they prefer waist belts for that type of activity. But they say it restricts movement and adds unnecessary weight on the trail.
Now, discussing this with my wife, she was sort of impressed with the idea of no waist belt. I promptly corrected her (because I'm not very smart and) because waist belts are just necessary for distributing weight, adjusting stress points while wearing a pack long distances, etc. But it occurred to me that I've always looked for good-fitting belts on my packs cause that's all I've ever known to do.
Now I'm wondering if the darn things really are even necessary...?