[pct-l] optimal conditions

[Austin Williams]

I have to comment on the "ultralight gear not being very durable" sentiment
here.  I made a Ray-Way backpack for my 2008 hike.  During that sobo hike I
lost the trail under snow.  Long story short, I decided to do a bailout of
Glacier Peak Wilderness.   I did about 20 miles of bushwhacking before I got
to a road.  I was *really* worried about  whether my gear would hold up
through the dense forested areas... especially my 9 oz homemade backpack.

Much to my surprise, it held up very well.  I got one hole poked into it by
a sharp branch when I was downclimbing a 12 ft waterfall (don't ask, it's a
long story... but yes, it *was* the safest option at the time... and it was
fun), which was easily repaired with a square of duct tape.

My pack lived through that, and for the rest of my trip.  Now, 2 years
later, I still use the same pack on all my multi-day hikes.

Same for my home-made tyvek tarp, my little half-length closed cell foam
pad, etc.

In conclusion: Lightweight materials are sturdier than they look. Your
backpack doesn't need to be bombproof. You're going to a national scenic
trail. You are not going to war. You aren't going out to bushwack through
the Amazon or *build* a trail through the Sierras. Choose your pack
accordingly.

Do note that you have to care for your UL gear differently than you would
the heavier gear.  You shouldn't sit on your pack, for example.

Hope it helps.  HYOH.

-- 
Austin Williams

www.PlanYourHike.com
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"Courage is being scared to death - but saddling up anyway."
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