Vent: A tourist's bear spray feedback totally changed how I guide hikes
Last summer a guest from Denver told me my bear spray holster placement was useless because it was buried under my pack strap, and honestly they were right, I never even thought about it. I switched to a chest rig after that trip and now I actually grab it in 2 seconds instead of fumbling for 10, which feels way safer for everyone. Has anyone else gotten criticism from a client that made you rethink your whole setup, or do you just ignore the tourists?
Had the same thing happen with a client from Seattle who pointed out my trekking poles were strapped in a way that made me bend over every time I needed them on a steep section. Felt like such a dumbass but she was totally right, and now they ride on my hip belt within reach. Little stuff like that adds up when you're tired and the trail gets sketchy. Tourists can be annoying but sometimes they see what we stopped noticing years ago.