I know it's not the point of the story, but if you need gear repaired, try Rainy Pass Repair. They fixed a beloved but irreplaceable (discontinued, manufacturer

I know it's not the point of the story, but if you need gear repaired, try Rainy Pass Repair. They fixed a beloved but irreplaceable (discontinued, manufacturer went bankrupt) pack for me. Similarly, I sent a pair of boots to Dave Page, Cobbler for resoling and am thrilled by the repair. Not affiliated with either, but I am a happy customer.