Back when I first started thinking of canoe tripping I started out by reading as much info about it as I could. Of particular value to me at that time was the series of books from Cliff Jacobs. I think his books are ideally suited for tripping in "park" environments like BW and Q. Where we parted company however was the idea of packs and dry bags. He disliked the Cascade design type packs summarizing that the material would likely abrade and consequently leak. I wonder if he came to the conclusion from personal experience, others experience, or conjecture.

Much has been written as of late in BWJ concerning packs. Excellent articles I might add. In no way do I contest the info given. This posting is aimed at the person who is inclined to give the Cascade packs a try but has been spooked off by bad press.

I have had my Cascade Pro Pack for over 10 years. I am probably an average tripper and go anywhere from 10 to 14 days per year. I am very much inclined to travel. That means lots of portaging. I don't baby my pack and it is usually heavier than it should be. It is still going strong with no leaks. Easily adjustable padded shoulder straps ( I snug them up after it's on), big wide padded waist belt and sternum strap make for one comfy ride. Plus I like the way it slides in and out of the boat.

I am also a fan of the long cylindrical dry bags from the same company. In one goes my raingear, first aid kit and a light fleece. In the other goes all the cooking stuff (stove, fuel, pot, pan, plates, cup etc.). I hand carry these bags. They carry quite easily hanging at your side as long as you don't get them to long where they will hit the ground. Again I have never had one abrade through yet even though I max them out. With the assorted bags it is easier to stay organized as well as shift weight in the boat very quickly and efficiently. Plus when I day trip there is no re-packing. I grab the raingear bag, the cooking bag and fishing tackle and go. And, at least so far, I don't worry about anything getting wet. In fact, if not for all the articles I wouldn't have known that my equipment wasn't the absolute best way to go.

Wise guy comments aside I would like to see some other equipment in action to be able to contrast and compare. I have zero experience with anything else. I do know, however, I have been quite pleased with what I have. If you are a casual canoe tripper these products work very well.
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