[pct-l] ULA, Tarptent & Gossamer gear: companies that do much more than sell gear

[gobig2006 at gmail.com (Robert Francisco)]

I have had the very good fortune of doing business with ULA, Tarptent and
Gossamer gear. Besides making excellent products these three companies have
given back significantly to the PCT. Brian, Henry and Glen have been
faithful sponsors of Trail fest and helped ensure the event happened in some
very lean years. Henry and Glen serve on the Board of Directors for the PCTA
and donate significant time and resources to the Preservation, Protections
and Promotion of the Trail.

I actually know that Brian did take a day off recently.  He drove to Salt
Lake City and volunteered at the PCTA booth at the outdoor retailer show.
This effort is designed to expand the membership of the PCTA and encourage
other outdoor retailers to step up and support the trail. Oh yea, he did
that last year also.

You don't hear any self promotion from these guys regarding their
significant philanthropic efforts. Rather they are quietly giving back to
the trail they clearly love.

In contrast other manufactures are naming gear after the PCT, CD, and AT and
they do not provide any support to the organizations that help protect these
trails.

Recently I ordered second pack (I have a P-2) from Brian.  He informed me
that it would take about 6 weeks to arrive.  No problem as long as I know.
During that period, I began to second guess my decision.  I called ULA and
the President of the company (Brian) answered the phone.  I explained my
delema, said I was thinking about changing my order to a more substantial
pack, and asked for advice.  Instead of immediately agreeing to a pack
upgrade (increased revenue for him), Brian instead suggested that I simply
order a upgraded hip belt and use it on my existing P-2.  This was the
perfect solution for me and the new hip belt is great.

Similarly, Henry and Glen have always got back to me ( I asked I lot of
questions) and provided expert advise as I prepare for my 2006 thru-hike
attempt. I am ordering a tent from Henry today. And will pick up a few last
minute items from Gossamer at trail fest next month.

My point is that these are small companies with limited resources yet they
are providing a level of service way beyond the industry norm.  AND they are
giving back at a very significant level.  I am personally happy to give them
my business and wish them great success in the future.  If they are
successful the trail will benefit and we will continue to owe them a debt of
gratitude.

Robert Francisco