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Posted by Grant on 2. December 2009 23:54
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I'm starting to get into the swing of things with this gift idea list. I had several items come to mind, but one of the key phrases I keep coming back to is creative and while I could easily mention a merino wool shirt (which I think I did mention last year), I think it's too mundane for my list this year, even if I love the thumb loops on that Icebreaker top.
So, going a bit more creative with my #2 choice, I'm highlighting a waterproof, ultralight, backpack cover.
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It may not sound all that interesting at first, but consider that this item easily turns any pack into a waterproof carrier, and they pack down to just about nothing so if your race has the potential for rain or snow, this can be a key item to have. Note that the style I'm linking too is particularly designed around the waist belt of a pack, so it accommodates those of us who love access to our hip pockets.
I tuck one of these pack covers into the bottom of by backpack for just about every trip out.
One alternative to a pack cover would be to buy a truly waterproof backpack -- which severely limits your pack choices and can weigh a ton; the weight of a truly waterproof pack is a dealbreaker for me. Another alternative is to put all the contents of your pack into a trashbag, and then stash the whole thing in your pack. The disorganization the trashbag approach can cause for a careful packer, such as myself, is another dealbreaker. Others might put the trash bag around the outside of the pack in a sort of ghetto-rigged pack cover; while this can certainly work for short periods of time, imagine what a heinous New England style bushwhack -- with lots of thorns -- would do to the trashbag covering your gear. I think I'd invest the $30 and get the more durable alternative.
Surprise the adventure racer on your list with this simple, yet so very useful, addition to their gear bin!
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gift ideas