Comments on: Never hike without this perfect accompaniment

By: RB Watt

RB Watt — Thu, 18 Aug 2022 19:28:40 +0000

Loved your column in the 8/17/2022 issue of the Denver Post. I’d like to add to your list of the bandana’s myriad functions:
Out here in the west, out on the range, when cowboys & cowgirls want to sit down, there’s nothing but the bare ground, or perhaps a stray wooden log to sit on. so they would take their bandanas & spread them out and sit upon them, hence, cowfolk out here call their bandanas a “sit-upon”. Taught to me by a longtime Kansan (Chisholm Trail, cattle drives & all that…) who should know! <:-}
Over many years of camping & hiking all around the southwest, my trusty bandanas have always been with me & have served some of the many functions you noted (-and others); wouldn't be without them!! To me they have always been my sit-upons.

By: Kerstin

Kerstin — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 18:14:39 +0000

Great article and I’m just beginning my new volunteer position as trail ambassador. Would love to spread your article to the folks who are hiking in the Northeast portion of Oregon.
We spread LNT principles at the trailheads and answer any questions hikers may have.
Bandanas are a must in my world!

By: Rick Freimuth

Rick Freimuth — Mon, 15 Aug 2022 15:07:52 +0000

Thanks for the great rundown of the utilitarian bandana. Trail tissues are the worst! What happened to wiping your nose on your sleeve or just the time honored “snag”, blowing one nostril with force while occluding the opposite. You mentioned tying two bandanas together to make bikini bottoms but didn’t mention the halter of choice for young women back in the day….late 60s early 70s. I’ve seen a few red paisley halters lately which bring back memories of hot summer concerts.