[pct-l] differentiation by weight only

[ned at mountaineducation.org]

Do PCT hikers choose their gear based on weight only as Scott implies?

>If you could choose between a 7 pound name brand backpack, and a 2 pound
>cottage industry backpack that is designed for long distance
>backpacking, which would you choose?

I wouldn't want something statistically lighter than anything comparable if it,

--was uncomfortable (thinking packs, pads)
--fell apart too soon requiring frequent replacement (thinking clothing or shoes)
--historically caught tables and forests on fire (thinking alcohol stoves)
--didn't keep me warm enough on enough nights (sleeping bags)
--was difficult to use, comparatively (small-mouthed plastic soda bottles as canteens)
--or was unsafe (twist-locked hiking poles)

I would think that PCT hikers would want the lightest version of something and still retain 
--comfort
--durability
--ease of use
--safety

Isn't that what we're really saying? To select something based on weight alone is asking for serious compromise somewhere...





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