Sometimes you learn that something truly unique exists in your own backyard.

That’s the way I felt when I was clued in by my girlfriend when she matter-of-factly stated that, “there’s this really cool shop that’s having a dry bag sale this weekend”. Needless to say this piqued my curiosity.

My question of “Who is it?” prompted a blank look, and assurances that all she knew was we had to get there early. You can never have too many dry bags, so I figured we would check it out. That weekend I learned that a manufacturing power-house, at least in the world of outdoor and river gear, calls Bozeman, Montana it’s home… Pacific Outdoor Equipment (P.O.E.).

We showed up at the sale as early as possible to learn that this was no mere retail-oriented sale, rather the shop was clearing out a bit of overstock and demos. And they didn’t have just dry bags, either. Their gear ran the gamut from great sleeping pads to camp chairs, drinking bottles and free beer cozies. The best part was that everything was priced dirt cheap.

With my arms loaded full and a grin split wide across my face, I paid for my plethora of gear goodies and we headed back to my pad. I had happened to grab a catalog, and while I was no stranger to Pacific Outdoor Equipment, I guess I never fully realized the extent of their product line; or the meticulous research that they’ve obviously conducted in the field.

P.O.E.’s Tarp Sleeping System

All of their gear is extremely well thought out; almost to the point of design perfection. I really fell in love with their super-lightweight sleeping system pictured here. It really makes sense for kayakers and warm weather adventurers.

As for the aforementioned drybags, they are of a quality that can only be hand-crafted. I managed to score a digital-SLR drybag that I can’t wait to put through it’s paces.

Another big seller from P.O.E. has got to be their InsulMat series of sleeping mats. Put your ThermaRest into retirement, because these have got to be slept on to be truly appreciated. My personal favorite is a pad that senses your body temperature and adds just enough heat to keep your core temperature regulated.

The Bomber Pad!

In conclusion, I highly recommend their gear. It’s well thought-out, perfectly crafted and environmentally conscious. The precision and love for their craft is permeate every product from Pacific Outdoor Equipment that I’ve seen and I’m proud to have them on the river with me this summer.

You can learn more about them when you visit www.pacoutdoor.com.

This dry-bag is an exceptional deal.    

Following is the description from the Sierra Trading Post website: H20 waterproof large gear bag from Seattle Sports is the ideal dry bag for boating, camping, rafting, or anytime you may be facing wet weather. Large size for short or extended adventures Heavy-duty vinyl sides and bottom Easy access roll-top closure system Easy carrying by padded, adjustable backpack straps.

Summary: Great big dry bag.

By Phil from Montana on 4/16/2008

Pros: Tight Closure, Square Shape, Good Capacity
Cons: May tear easily when overloaded
Best Uses: Multi-Day Excursions, Whitewater Rafting, Boating
Describe Yourself: Very Experienced

I was absolutely astounded when I discovered that I could get a brand-name (it’s Seattle Sports, c’mon now!) dry bag of this size for under 50-bucks. The price was so good that I ordered several, half-expecting them to be of marginal quality. Boy, was I surprised.

“Besides the bag being large enough to pack enough gear for several days on the water, all the seams are well sewed and welded. Even fully packed, there is sufficient room to roll the top tightly for a good seal.”

My only complaint is the backpack straps. You’d have to be an idiot to load the the bag with more than 80 lbs. of gear and try to carry it on your back, but if you do expect the straps to tear from the bag. Use a bit of common sense and carry the bag by hand if it’s heavily loaded to avoid this; but I could see it being an issue for newbs.

Seattle Sports has done a good job of crafting a useful, haul-anything gear bag for whitewater enthusiasts. The cinch straps ensure that everything will stay in place through rough water, as well as help keep the bag’s shape in a full gear-boat.

Overall: Great bag for a good price!

I just received the new Colorado Kayak Supply magazine/catalog in the mail today. I’ve bought a few items from the company in the past, but most noteworthy about this edition is the stunning cover photograph.

The image is of Josh Bechtel running the Chiflon Grande in Chiapas, Mexico. It was captured by photographer Brad Sutton.