musings on someone else’s opinion

January 30, 2008 – 2:09 am by ryanc

When we warned you that we would sometimes voice our personal opinions, we weren’t kidding :) Best start this new blog off with a bang!

I recently received the latest copy of Backpacker Magazine in the mail, this one being annual gear guide. Without venturing too far into the pages of the issue, one will come across an Editor’s Note. This particular note conveys some “strong opinions” (their words, not mine) on hot gear guides based on all the trips and miles their testers have logged. I thought I would spend some time expressing my opinion on their opinions.

First, what I disagree with:

1. Sure, manufacturers are making more packs now that can comfortable carry 60 lbs, but I wouldn’t go so far as to say that “Big packs are back”. I’m sure carrying all that extra weight will bring you a few luxuries, but at what expense? I’m sure that weight will not be good on your body in the long run. Then again, Backpacker Magazine’s view of the ultra light backpacking community and practices has always seemed a bit skewed to me.

2. “Tarps are dead.” I particularly don’t agree with this one, considering I am an avid tarp user. Simply put, using a tarp plus lightweight bivy give me greater flexibility, greater breathability if needed, and in many occasions has kept me drier than those on the same trip using tents during bad weather. Oh, and my entire shelter system weighs 13 oz. Can your tent do that?

Now, for what I agree with:

1. More manufacturers are making hiking shoes/boots with bigger toe boxes and I personally couldn’t be happier. My only pains after a high-mileage day were due to my toes being smashed together in normal width shoes that were too narrow for my toes. I say were, because now it is no longer a problem.

2. eVent is really starting to make a splash in the WPB (waterproof/breathable) market that has previously been dominated by Gortex. This is not to say that Gortex isn’t also making new versions of their fabric that are considerably better than in the past. However, I do own a couple of pieces of gear that use eVent and they are very nice.

Has anyone else read this article? What do you think of their seven opinions?

Posted in opinions | Tagged as articles, fabric, footwear, packs, tarps