by andrewa » Sun 10 Aug, 2014 8:23 pm
John,
I think the issue was that , for my particular interests, which were largely related to progressive gear design for specific uses, it went from being a really creative innovative forum, with lots of good ideas about alternative uses for gear ( think of Higg and whoevers early trips, using thermarests as PFDs) to one that became so constricted by litigation potential after the affiliation with APA, that that aspect died.
Eg
The early spray deck modifications/thigh straps etc, which were great
and
MYO PFD, using wine bladders.....worked well for us for numerous trips, and still will, but someone pointed out that by posting this on the forum, I could be liable for someone else's tragedy in the US.....really?
Packrafting has evolved a lot since we got into it, but in those early days, there was a lot of innovation and discovery, which was what I found stimulating, and I've certainly enjoyed your early trip reports, but I haven't been on the packrafting forum for 12 months plus...have there been any innovate developments in that time?
But, back to your trip....amazing.....please post lots of piccies.
I was amazed at how exposed your initial campsites were. Big country. No trees. Didn't look like the most inviting image of Alaska to arrive to, but still extraordinary. I have trouble imagining a river with continuous 2/3 rapids like that.....perfection, even though you were cold. Our NZ packrafting has been a lot less relaxing in terms of river flow.......But then Roman came across and showed how easily it was all done....!
Maybe hydroskin socks for next trip for you?
Anyway, as said, thanks for posting on this forum, as I otherwise might have missed it.
Andrew A