RE: [pct-l] Ray Jardine vs. Mad Monte

["Dude Spellings" <dude@coruscant.net>]

I have never thru-hiked the PCT, which makes me no expert on what shoes it takes to do it.  However, in 1998 I did hike from Lake Tahoe to Mt. Whitney.  The first half, I used a bomb-proof pack and big leather hiking boots.  Along the way, I met some thru-hikers with something like 14 lb packs that convinced my to try the Jardinian approach.  So, in Yosemite, I swapped packes and shoes, and unloaded a ton from my pack.  I got my pack down to 16 lb with no food or water.  I would finish my journey in regular Asics running shoes.

I have to say that the lighter pack totally rocks!!  I used an Osprey Aether that weighs 1 lb 9 oz. and has no frame.  The running shoes killed my feet for the first few days, but after about 5 days, they got used to them.  I have to agree with Monte on the snow, though.  I would definitely prefer some boots on the snow.  I almost slipped many times going over passes with lots of snow on them.

The nest time I do a long hike, I will probably use a light boot and will definitely use the lighter pack.  In my opinion, Jardine is right about one thing:  When you cut the wieght dramatically, you can go much further in a day... at least I did.

If anyone finds this useful, I will be surprised.  But I thought I would throw it out there.

peace,
Dude in TX

>From: Montedodge@aol.com
>Date: Mon, 29 May 2000 21:03:21 EDT
>Subject: [pct-l] Ray Jardine vs. Mad Monte
>To: pct-l@edina.hack.net
>
> What does Monte and Ray both have in common?? We both carry an 8 lb pack!!! 
>( Only mine is a totally empty Old Lowe Expedition that is strong enough to 
>pack out a dead hiker if you could shove em in!!! ) The pack will still be 
>around when I'm in the ground. Alot can be said about " reserve strength " of 
>gear and boots.  I do believe my old Lowe " which weighes slightly less than 
>a carbonfiber Mountain bike " will outlast any golight pack around. I like 
>Greg's theory on boots and tires and must agree totally with his view. The 
>leather " Warhorse " boots of yesteryear had a certain cush when walking and 
>did a super job of edging into frozen morning snow. A good leather job is 
>equal to a good leather saddle, bike or horse, which when broken in fits like 
>a glove. New ultralight type boots are "Cute" for limited use, but offer 
>zippo protection in snow or 104 degree desert heat. Even many Jardinite " 
>Wantabe's " suffered in their boots as bad as the  " Throwbacks" of the 70's. 
>The grocery store theory again comes into play as people come into the PCT in 
>good shape, but feet are still ill prepared. I know my advice will be 
>treasured by all and will instantly change hikers minds. Ha Ha Ha!!!!    Mad 
>Monte rides again!!!
>* From the PCT-L |  Need help? http://www.backcountry.net/faq.html  *


------------------------------------------------------------
Powered by the Coruscant Holonet at http://www.echostation.com


* From the PCT-L |  Need help? http://www.backcountry.net/faq.html  *

==============================================================================