[pct-l] Hoods on the trail

[Montedodge@aol.com (Montedodge@aol.com)]

 In this day of high tech hum bug, the lowly poncho still deserves a hard 
look. Thousands of army troops have used these for years.  A hooded 
over-the-pack poncho does triple duty on the trail as a great tarp set up for 
over your bivy tent to make a great cooking area and boot or shoe cover. Home 
made from 1.1 oz. silicone stuff would fit the bill. I used a REI over the 
pack poncho which worked well for me. ( Good ventilation in the rain) Some 
hikers complain of a poncho flapping like a freedom flag going down the 
trail. I have never had this problem as most ponchos have good snaps along 
the sides or velcro. Options are endless, but add this to your list of " 
maybe 's". I agree with having a good hood.  " Frank Zappa boils yellow snow 
for water and uses an alcohol burner" Rolling Stones mag. 1975