Fanny Pack Great In All Weather

Product: Nylon Lumbar Seal Pak

Description: A 1 pound, 2 ounce fanny pack system with a padded nylon mesh harness and removable waterproof nylon dry bag. The harness is available in black only and the bag comes in blue.

Pro: The waterproof dry bag is plenty large enough (855 cubic inches) to hold a personal stash of daily needs and then some. Since the bag is made of waterproof nylon, it remains flexible in cold temperatures, unlike PVC material, making this setup an ideal choice for snowmobilers and skiers, as well as white-water thrill-seekers, wetweather mountain bike aficionados and fishi ng enthusiasts. The dry bag is easily removed for times when you might want to use it alone, without the trappings of flapping straps. Waist belt is ventilated for quick drying. Numerous cinch straps for added stabilizing of a load plus several D-rings for strapping accessories to.

Con: The nylon pocket on the outside of the waist belt is not waterproof, which it isn’t meant to be, but since the dry bag is, and this unit is designed to be used when even Noah is looking for a life raft, it seems to me that the pocket should at least have drainage holes.

Comments: For active users who are not deterred from their recreational pursuits by the thought of a little moisture, the Seal Pack offers a perfect carrying solution. A $47 PVC version of the Seal Pack is currently available while the nylon version I tested won’t be on store shelves until July. Gear that must stay dry does, while being carried securely and comfortably - just like a standard fanny pack, only with a twist.

Suggested retail: $63

Company: Cascade Designs, 4000 First Ave. South, Seattle, 98134; (800) 531-9531