Sunday, March 18, 2012

Mesh Pocket for GoLite Jam

I thought about adding a mesh pocket to my GoLite Jam backpack and actually removing the existing pocket. The existing pocket isn't very functional if the main compartment is full. The reason being the inside back of the pocket is shared with the main compartment. So if you have the main compartment fully expanded then it reduces the available space in the outside pocket. After seeing so many mesh pockets on packs like the the MLD Exodus and GG Mariposa Plus and Gorilla packs I decided to look into doing something similar as a Make your own gear (MYOG) project.

After posting on Backpacking Light I was referred to this site

http://www.outdoortrailgear.com/cottage-industries/mountaingoatgear/detachable-mesh-pockets-for-backpacks/

Katharina Pierini makes these and charged me $22 shipped with my custom specs on size. Below are several pictures showing the pocket she made attached to my Jam. This is prior to removing the existing outside pocket.






































As you can see from the pictures the pocket attaches using provided shock cord run through existing buckle loops already on the Jam and provides very secure attachment

Ultimately the mesh pocket is easier to store/retrieve things that I need quick access to during the day (map/compass, snacks, water treatment), gives me a way to quickly dry out wet clothing and will save several ounces once I remove the existing pocket including it's zipper.

Monday, May 31, 2010

Mt. Antero on May 29th, 2010

Climbed Mt. Antero Saturday with my climbing partner Murray and his girlfriend. Trip report posted here http://www.14ers.com/php14ers/tripreport.php?trip=8019&parmuser=randalmartin&cpgm=tripuser

Sunday, May 9, 2010

My Review of Black Diamond Trail Ergo Cork Trekking Poles

Originally submitted at REI

With mountain goat sure-footedness and ease of use, these Black Diamond Ergo Cork trekking poles keep you going in every season.


Perfect!!

By castlerock from Castle Rock, CO on 5/9/2010

 

5out of 5

Gift: No

Pros: Good Precision, Good Stiffness, Ergonomic Grip

Describe Yourself: On The Mountain

Having used traditional twist lock poles for the last 2 years the Fliplock feature of BD poles is just a tremendous feature. The cork is excellent for absorbing sweat and maintaining grip performance. The angle of the grip (slightly forward) is such a basic improvement I am stunned more poles don't do the same. That feature is particularly important as you descend so your wrists can maintain a more natural position. I cut off the wrist straps because straps are an unnecessary feature and because I once saw a man who had them get his pole tips stuck and since he was going downhill he did a face plant on the trail because he couldn't free his hands.

(legalese)

Sunday, April 25, 2010

Manitou Incline

Went up the Manitou Incline today with my good friend and climbing partner Murray Fisher. He smoked me. He made to the top in 28 minutes, I made in 38 minutes. Good time and a great workout.

Saturday, March 27, 2010

Pikes Peak Barr Trail

Heading out to Pikes Peak Barr Trail in the morning. Will probably just hike up to the Barr Camp which is about half way to the Pikes Peak summit. Have heard there are pockets of very deep postholing between Barr Camp and treeline so not really interested in that.

Sunday, November 22, 2009

Climbing Journal

This blog is an ongoing journal of my hikes, climbs and other outdoor activities. I haven't journaled or otherwise captured my experiences in written form, so I really like the concept of a blog to provide an outlet to do that. I will try to keep things short and to the point.