MLD “The Thing”

[Kyle Crawford]

Ron just posted this backpack/pfd??
What are your thoughts?

[Hendrik Morkel]

Here was a link. Please go to the MLD site yourself and look for it.

Well, it could be a lightweight alternative to a normal PFD. Its aimed clearly at the UL Packafting community, so those need to know if the feel comfortable using it. Would like to know what Roman (Dial) and other packrafters think about it.

[Steven Evans]

I think that is the one Skurka is going to use on his big trip coming up. The description is pretty vague and I'm not sure I understand exactly how it works. Is it filled with something?

Edit: I just read that since I asked questions, I shouldn't use it. :(

[CW]

I believe Andy is using the previous all mesh version but from what I recall he has no plans to float any whitewater. You basically fill the zippered compartments with empty, air-filled platys or the like to get the necessary flotation.

[Kyle Crawford]

Thanks for the link Hendrick. Brilliant! I can't wait to see one of these tested.

[Steven Evans]

Chris,
Thanks for the clarification. I saw his description on his gearlist with the additional platy bottles but didn't figure out where they actually went. Makes sense now.

[CW]

No problem. For some additional flotation where you're not at risk of getting knocked out by banging your head on a rock (read no real whitewater), it's likely fine.

[David Ure]

I think one could also use this as a trail running pack…..

[Lucas Boyer]

A trail running pack or enhancement for your halloween cross dressing ;)

For those confused by the lack of info: don't forget the U.S. regulatory hurdles that must be crossed w/ the coast guard, etc. to get approval on PFD's. There'd be no profit left in the item once all was said and done(unless mass appeal was guaranteed of course). Not to mention, some nimrod who decides to float some class IV and forgets to inflate his Platy. Once the EMT's pull his blue corpse from the river, surviving family members may decide to take a piece of MLD for themselves. No more UL gear for us folks. End of story.

Might make a nice fishing vest too.

[Kyle Crawford]

>I think one could also use this as a trail running pack…..

Agreed.

Happy Trails

[Pieter Kaufman]

Silly backpackers. It's obviously a SUL CalTrans safety vest.

:p

[Steofan M]

Add on one more "+1".
My thought was how much I hate lumbar packs. This might just work out better than a smaller (but always ill-sized and overpriced) day-pack.
Could even let my Retriever use it!

[Gary Boyd]

in the description. Like the ULA potty trowel.

[Travis Leanna]

Are there any other people who have used this "thing?" Comments?

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