Re: [pct-l] pct-l [too light?]

["Paul Nickodem" <Dharmabum64@worldnet.att.net>]

.
>
> 3) I have seen people with homemade packs have hiking-ending shoulder
> injuries. Also have personal experience with this. Last summer, I carried
a
> very very light pack with not much in the way of suspension in England and
> Scotland for a month. Packweight usually didn't exceed 15 - 20  pounds
total.
> The injury I sustained from a pack I THOUGHT was comfortable is only now
> beginning to heal after months of extensive physical therapy. Shoulder
> injuruies can include nerve damage and rotator cuff problems -- they take
a
> long time to heal and can be very incapacitating.,
  Same here Karen!
I've had some experience with packs without hipbelts and I would never go
back to one without.  However just as you say to each their own.  I like to
dabble in new things here and there, but the core of my philosopy has always
been; "hiking to enjoy hiking".  In my own experience going "Bare bones"
isn't as enjoyable as going with at least a minor level of comfort and
safety.  As with many things you can find a comfortable mix that works for
each individual.
The occasional beer with the Ben & Jerrys in town is one thing that has to
be on the menu for every trail stop however!
Of course some people prefer "Rootbeer floats" but whatever works.
Cheers
Dharmabum
> 4) On the actual PCT, I saw very people go with ultralight techniques the
> whole way. Many changed their gear and the packweight crept up as time
went
> on. They found that a pack designed for 15 - 20 pounds doesn't work with 5
> days of food and five liters of water. Or that a totally enclosed tent is
> something they really really wanted in the snowmelt.
>
> 5) Skill level makes a huge difference - -as does having a healthy respect
> for the climate and environment..
>
> Each to his own, though -- I continue to search for ultralight techniques
> that make sense for me and the particular environment I'll be hiking in.
>
> Karen Berger
>
>
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>


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