Re[2]: [at-l] Lekis and global warming

[rafeb@adelphia.net (rafeb@adelphia.net)]

On 10 Feb 2002 at 19:04, Weary. wrote:

> "... I remember some folks complaining about the effects of deeply
> treaded boots (eg Vibram soles) on the trail." says Terrapin.
> 
>   And with equal legitimacy. Lug soles increased erosion. Sharp-pointed
>   Leki's increase erosion and trail damage.
> 
>   Hikers are identical to the rest of society. We happily oppose those
>   things that don't directly effect us. We find excuses to continue to
>   do those things we find pleasant or -- perhaps -- just faddish.


I'm not sure how you define lug soles, Weary -- and I'm not trying 
to be evasive.  Just not sure what they are.  I may be "guilty" as hell,
though not terribly apologetic on this matter.

There are plenty of places on the AT, particularly when things 
get wet, where traction equals safety.  I remember scrambling 
off the rocky summit of Baldpate in a hailstorm, not so long ago.

see <http://www.channel1.com/users/rafeb/baldpate_pre_storm.html>

Now, nobody's forcing anybody to walk on the AT.  It exists for our 
mutual benefit.  So the question comes down to a balance, I suppose,
between the Trail's health and our own.  Extra wear and tear on the AT
isn't quite the same matter as heating up the earth's atmosphere.


rafe b.
aka terrapin