Tue, 05 Jan 1999 12:47:42 +0000
- Message No. 4635
From: John Gartside
Subject: Waterproofing maps
Happy New Year!
I have been reading the threads on waterproofing maps and would like to
add my thoughts.
1: Using clear plastic or laminate is no good because you a) ruin the
map - it's very difficult to avoid 'bubbles' forming. b) the map is very
stiff and bulky after this and difficult to handle.
2: There are aerosol sprays that are available in the UK at specialist
outdoor shops, these make the paper waxy and are a great deal better
than bare maps. However, they tend to make the paper translucent.
3: By far the best option is to buy a suitably sized 'Ortlieb'
waterproof map case from an outdoor shop, they are made from a really
flexible, clear, tough rubbery plastic and are superb. They are a bit
expensive, at about 15 Pounds Sterling, but at least you will be able to
use maps, guide books etc again afterwards. They are made in the EC, so
should be available Europe-wide.
I base my opinions on 15 years of mountain walking, mountain biking and
of course, motorcycling. Read about it on the BTBC homepage
http://homepages.solis.co.uk/membikes.htm
John Gartside
ATIC # 41, '96 RD 07
www@atic.org