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Monte Dodge | all galleries >> Galleries >> Retro Outdoor Gear > Trail Wise Pack ( Note nice large vented backband)
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18-JUL-2006 Monte Dodge

Trail Wise Pack ( Note nice large vented backband)

Wenatchee Washington

Well , if you have to pack 70lb. loads , is need lots of air and this pack was a freighter dream. ( Late 60's pack)

Canon EOS 300D Digital Rebel ,17mm-40mm F4
1/250s f/11.0 at 17.0mm iso100 full exif

other sizes: small medium large auto
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Barry Pryor 11-Mar-2007 22:55
I have this exact backpack, bought it in 1972 or 1973. Been using it ever since. Simply put, its great! Never let me down in any weather. After about a 6 year hiatus from backpacking, I'm getting into it again and took my Trailwise out with my son (he has a new Kelty). This old Trailwise is like an old friend. But I did notice the material was a bit stiff as though it was in the first stages of deterioration. I removed the pack from the frame (first time I've ever done this) and think I'm going to give it its first washing ever (after 34 years!). And I would like to treat the material with something that may restore some of the materials resiliency. Anyone know what can be used?? Armorall?? Any ideas?? The webing in back is still great (as are all the lashings...amazing, and its true what the captions says above...for carrying a heavy load (>50-60 lbs), its just great. I will likely silicone the zippers (have never done that before). And I'm also thinking about replacing the shoulder pads and hip pad. They are still in pretty good condition (amazingly!!) but I bet there are some really nice ones out there that will add to the comfort of this aging backpacker. Or what the heck, just use them as they are and handle it! One can get used to a little "discomfort", and if things are too comfortable one might get a little soft on the trail. Can't have that happen!
Dave Beedon01-Jan-2007 22:47
DUH! I just saw the title of the previous photo.
Dave Beedon01-Jan-2007 22:46
I think this is what Colin Fletcher used on his adventurous hikes.