I first used my GoLite umbrella on a trip out to Big Bend in '04 while hiking the Outer Mountain Loop & it was a life-saver. Once you get on the Dodson Trail, shade is virtually non-existent, so having 'instant' shade makes carrying one worthwhile. It was kinda fun too seeing the looks on other hikers faces who weren't using one when we passed each other on the trail... at first the look was like, "Huh? An umbrella?" Then a look would come over their face like, "Dang, wish I had one!" Of course, it comes in handy in the rain too & I've even cooked under it during a rainstorm. Still in use today, I always pack the GoLite as it's fairly compact, weighs only ~7oz -8oz. & fits neatly in the side pocket of my packs.
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