[pct-l] maps/thru-wallets

[jeff.singewald at comcast.net]

Hey Scott, 



Let's keep in mind that a good majority of folks that attend the KO our not current year thru-hikers.  Many folks in attendence are folks that are considering a future thru-hike and this is one of the few places where hikers can see and touch these cottage industry products for the first time. 



Prior to my thru-hike in 2006, I often wondered if these cottage-industry products were right for me.  In 2003 and 2004 I read quite a bit about this ULA P2 pack, however, there was no friggen way I would have bought one site unseen.  So, I ended up heading out on the PCT in NorCal and "stalking" Greesepot and Garlic Man" as I had read in their journals that they really liked these packs.  They were kind enough to let me have a look and evaluate their packs so that I could get a better feeling if it was the right solution for me.  I think this is one of the real benefits of ADZ for future hikers. 



Now, with that said, I can't address your concerns that the ADZ organizers pick and choose which cottage-industry vendors are allowed to show their gear.  I am not familiar with the policy.  I for one, would never show up to the ADZ during my thru-hike with the expectation to buy gear for that year as I personally feel it is important to trial out all your gear well in advance of starting the trail. 



Just my opinion, 



Elevator 




----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Postholer" <public at postholer.com> 
To: pct-l at backcountry.net 
Sent: Sunday, March 28, 2010 4:05:12 PM GMT -08:00 US/Canada Pacific 
Subject: [pct-l]  maps/thru-wallets 

> Scott/Postholer has ranted about and demeaned these folks for 
> years for.....selling their products at the Kickoff 

...and I'll rant some more. The Kick-off folks are selective about who sells 
warez and I'll bet it's a tight circle. My *fellow* low-life carpet baggers 
target their customers when they are at their most enthusiastic. Really, 
what better moment to get your product under a hikers nose than on the 
*first day* of a 2,650 mile hike. Serendipitous? Of course not, strategic 
product placement. But of course, such a concept has never been uttered by 
those that ply their warez at the KO. 

Hey, they'll even take you back to REI to return gear so you can purchase 
the 'right' gear from a KO vendor. 

> ...with his semi-humorous "Thru-Wallet" children's story. 

Semi? SEMI?! Hey, it's damn funny. ( 
http://postholer.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=236 ) 

> and also providing exceptional map products to hikers, but because 
> now maybe he will quit insulting other people since he's joined their 
> illustrious ranks. 

Misery loves company.....as does mediocrity. 

Since I've engaged in questionable behavior, that behavior is no longer 
questionable? 

Right. Check. Got it. 

> And the implication that hikers are just dumb "Thru-Wallets" who 
> get flimflammed by all those MEAN folks selling backpacks, shelters 
> and guide books 

That was never implied. That's your interpetation and your baggage. The 
'message' is and will continue to be, "Others may take advantage of your raw 
enthusiasm for your upcoming adventure." It's an excellent message and as 
valid as it's always been. 

> ...gonna be glad to see that stop too. 

Don't get too glad. None of *us* low-life carpet baggers are above reproach. 
Some serious scrutiny from within and without is a *good* thing, no matter 
how uncomfortable it may be. 

Wait, never-mind. That sort of thing is bad for business. 

Get your map books here: 
http://postholer.com/mapbooks 

-postholer 

------------------------------------ 
Trail Journals, Google Trail Maps, Forums: http://postholer.com 
Printed Map Books: http://postholer.com/mapbooks 



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