[pct-l] Umbrellas verses Ponchos

[Montedodge@xxxxxxx (Montedodge@xxxxxxx)]

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 Umbrellas do have a " Niche" in the desert heat and shade. (if winds are on
hold)
  In Washington though , wind and rain are very much hand in hand. True
natives from Washington are NEVER seen carrying an Umbrellas. Only
transplants use them from warmer areas. Anyone seen with one is looked on as
a " Panty Waist" up here. Anywhere an Umbrella could be used would be better
served with a Poncho in dealing with rain. ( These walking tents are very
airy in hard rain, do a better job in the wind,etc,etc,etc) They also can
pull double duty as a tarp shelter. ( Check Roy Robinson Trail Dad web page)
    Jonathon Ley, Flyin Brian  and Trail Dad have brought this 70's piece of
gear back from the dead in recent years with their very successful
thru-hikes.
    After 20 years of having heavy , costly and sweaty gore-tex shoved in our
face , it is nice to see the lowly poncho back on the trail.
     Umbrella is a good desert piece of gear if atached to pack for hands
free hiking , but a poor choice in Washington Mts. ( Yes , some years it only
rained 10 days for  thru-hikers but don't count on it!!)