My Rucksac Is Pre-packed

Thank you for the review ... I think. I'm Deb, the "U.S. Company" who developed these packs. And I sure hope I didn't make you cry. Perhaps I should also offer an empty box as another alternative, since lots of people do prefer to hike with nothing much at all. Hence, some of the SAR missions I've been on. You know the ones--stuck because they didn't get back before dark and don't have any lightsource and freezing their butts off because they have nothing but the clothes on their backs.

Does ANY gear guarantee one's safety? Of course not! That's part of what the brain is for. No gear replaces common sense or skill or KNOWING how to use the gear. Are either of the packs I've put together EVERYthing one should have in every situation? Of course not. Did you read anything on my site? That's why--due to the quite letigious society we live in--there's the "Friendly Reminder." And that's why I've included other "recommended gear." But, hey, idiots will be idiots, regardless of what they might carry. And, by the same token, unfortunate things happen to even the best prepared and most skilled among us.

Seriously, though, my packs are just options, take it or leave it. No need for the sarcasm. By the way, this "American" company has a face and a name--me. And if anyone ever has a question, comment, or concern, I invite you to use one of the many "Contact Us" (because I do have help) links and let me know. I guarantee I will respond. I certainly can take contrary opinions, but all I ask is for your respect, because this girl has hiked thousands of miles and rescued many a lost, stranded, and/or injured outdoorsman (and woman) since I've been in SAR, and I won't apologize for advocating preparedness.

Thanks!

Posted: 05/05/2009 at 20:55

Deb maybe you're being a bit sensitive.

I thought the review wasn't overly critical at all - you're bound to get a less than effusive reaction from a 'specialist'site than you are at a general walking site, plus there maybe a bit of 'lost in translation' going on. I'm sure if the reviewer really had a downer on your concept he'd have said so - bad choice of items, chosen for profit not performance etc etc - he clearly didn't think this.

FWIW I think it's a great concept, for some consumers. Personally I wouldn't as I have a hotch-potch of gear I've built up over time and need to get use out of it. But if I was a post credit-crunch banker seeking the outdoors from scratch then it's something I'd probably look closely at. Sure there are many people like that.

Good luck with the business

Posted: 05/05/2009 at 23:07

Hi, Rog and thanks... 

Perhaps, yes, on the "sensitive" thing. And perhaps I misinterpreted. Apologies if so. I was actually a little surprised, though, to find reviews here and there. I suppose I am also surprised at the biting sarcasm by some who consider themselves experts on gear, hiking and all other things outdoors. Not so much here, no, but, whew, some folks really get off on it. I mean, heck, it's JUST gear. Regular, normal gear. All I've done is combine some of it, try to offer a decent deal on the whole kit and kaboodle, and tried to convey, also, that it's not the end-all and be-all of what one might need to carry. And, of course, lots of people will consider it overkill, which is fine. Again, personal preference. It's hard to fit everything onto the front page of a website, and all at the top, but I also really try to convey that knowledge and skill is not included. It's just ... gear.

 Thanks again for the well wishes. I'm off to go for a walk with the dog and get away from this computer.

Posted: 05/05/2009 at 23:19