Henry Coe BCW 2011: Post-Weekend Analysis

I threw these notes together mainly for myself, so that I would remember the information. But it might be of use to others, so here we go:

Gear I brought but didn’t use: First aid kit, Leatherman, sunblock packets, iPhone headphones, MSR micro towel, Japanese toothpaste tube.

Details: First aid kit is still coming along every time, used or not… Leatherman was also inconvenient and interfered with backpack waist belt, plan to replace next time with Leatherman Squirt PS4. Sunblock packet was needed but I didn’t see it when looking through bag, oops. Not sure if I will bring headphones next time since I don’t like my hearing blocked. Towel not used. Japanese toothpaste redundant to Crest in plastic container.

One non-essential that would have been nice to have was some lip balm. It’s also one of those items you really can’t borrow from your friends.

Summary: Overall my gear worked out great.

Other trip notes:

1. Hipbelt pouches on my Osprey pack are too small for Canon A640. It technically fits but it’s a chore to put in and remove, also turns camera on resulting in stuck lens/lens shutters. Camera survived but don’t want to give it a total beating like that every time. Purchased Osprey holder for pack strap instead, should work better. Would have bought Mtn. Hardware version but pouch strap on back too wide for Osprey pack strap.

2. Tent pole sleeve works nicely to hold 3 beers in lake. Surprised fabric seemed waterproof.

3. CF trekking poles would be nice if I’m going to carry them on my pack like I did on Saturday.

4. Stove gas canister seems to get weak when it is low, like below 30g remaining.

5. New hat worked well. Not as cool as going without but definitely provided much shade.

6.  Pool shoes: these were my camp shoes and potential stream-crossing shoes. I didn’t use them for the crossings but used them in camp. They were comfy to sit around in and not bad on the green grass, but I did have a twig come right through the sole and the mesh on one shoe tore already. They’re wonderfully light and cheap but I’m not sure they’re quite up for the task. Something just a bit tougher would be perfect

7. Distances:

Day 1 Projected: 7.3 miles. Actual: 7.8 miles

Day 2 Projected: 8 miles. Actual: 7.9 miles