About a month ago I returned one of my favorite bags, the Continental Rucksack, to the L.L.Bean factory because the straps were completely worn out. Personally, I would have preferred them to put new straps on and send me the old standby back, but they don't do repairs(!). After carrying this bag for five years or so, my shoulders refused to endure the pain any longer. Countless times the sales representatives offered to send a completely new bag. So I got to thinking, why not just pick something different and have it replaced for free through their lifetime guarantee? Maybe something with a whole new style and similar functionality?
The Kennebec Switch-Pack is a new addition to the L.L.Bean family of gear and completely unlike anything I've ever seen. It's not just a bag, but also a fishing vest. I know, you're wondering why I settled on this being a city-dweller and all. Well the truth is that I prefer a bag with a waist strap, the shoulder straps are super comfortable, and there are like 100 pockets. I even used it fishing in the Adirondacks, albeit I was spin-casting and not using all of the pockets in the fullest extent that a fly fisherman would (see the tippet dispensers on the side attachments), but it worked really well. Not totally waterproof though (the expectation is that you will stand in knee-high water fly fishing with it on your back...) so be careful. This may be a problem for me since I use it to bike to work, but the water-resistant capabilities have kept most of my things dry during a small showers.
I look forward to seeing how versatile the bag will be for my lifestyle.
Click on the link below to see the how the side attachments turn the pack into a vest...
*Ladies, this feature only works if you are poorly endowed.*
Built it waistcoat, whoa there. Handy to the max. I know Eastpak bags have a 40 year warranty and they do repairs and replace for the same model. Not that they're probably as technical but the process does exist.
ReplyDeleteI like Eastpack, very simple designs. Good to know they have repair services. It's strange that so many companies are willing to replace instead of repair. I suppose the logistics of shipping stuff around to make repairs is more costly...
DeleteI probably could've put new straps on myself. If LLBean has the warranty, I don't mind putting it to use.
I like everything about this post except the spin rod. Friends don't let friends chuck gear!
ReplyDeleteI know, I know! I don't have a fly reel though...
Delete