[Paddlewise] wearable storage

An interesting wearable storage idea for paddlers:

I was wandering thru Wal-Mart and noticed the "hunter's chest pack" on 
clearance ($9).  Made for turkey hunters, it is a small pack that has 
straps/harness to wear on your chest.  I popped the fast-lock buckles off, 
and added them to the front of my PFD....I can snap the pack on or off in a 
few seconds.  The front and back have foam panels sewn inside - so the 
thing floats even with some items inside.  On the inside are 12 pockets and 
zippered pouches PLUS (and I like this the best) there are straps on the 
inside of the front panel that turn it into a little shelf when open - so 
everything doesn't dump out - and if you drop something it isn't fish 
food.  There are also little alligator clips on the top edge - maybe a 
handy place for a map?

The additional thickness on the front of my PFD doesn't seem to bother 
me.  I haven't tested it during recoveries but I think it will be OK.  I 
simply won't stuff it with things like a jacket - so it stays relatively 
thin.  I like being able to access these items rather than popping off my 
spray skirt  to get items stowed in my cockpit.

Not waterproof but certainly a handy place for things you want to use while 
paddling - or things you want to keep with you in an emergency where you 
are separated from your boat/gear.

Keith


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