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4 gear questions: Keen sandals, dry sack, Euroschirm umbrella, Macabi skirt

Eugenia MinskLund

The only way to do it is to do it.
Time of past OR future Camino
Camino Frances from SJPDP (14 July - 17 August 2018)
Hi,

I plan to walk the French route starting from SJPDP from 15 July. Now I am getting all the gear ready, so, 4 questions:

1) If you wore the Keen sandals, which model did you select? I am interested in female models, but I assume the topic might be of an interest to men also. I have tried Arroyo ii and Venice H2. Arroyo feels better but bulkier. Any thoughts?

2) If you have used dry sack for washing clothes, how many liters sack have you used?

3) I plan to walk with the Euroschirm umbrella as I get sunburns easily and generally do not react to heat very well. There are 2 models available - the handsfree model that is available on this website and the one that looks like a regular umbrella. I have met information that the first model is weak in the telescopic part and stops working sometimes. Any experience with this? Or with the other model? I have watched youtube videos on how to carry a regular umbrella hands-free while hiking, so that's not the concern. But the quality is.

4) I am 156cm (5'2) tall and would like to wear a Macabi skirt on the Way. Which model would you choose - regular or slim? Short or medium? And how do I figure out the size? My measurements are: hips 100cm (20'), waist 80cm (32'), length of the leg starting from the waist and to ankle 86cm (33').

Thanks a lot!
 
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I used an Osprey 12 liter dry sack to wash my clothes in. It weighs just 1.2 ounces. For this years Camino I'm planning to use these laundry detergent sheets. Each sheet has two strips, and one strip is supposed to be enough for an entire washing machine load of laundry. I've tested them out, using just 1/3 of a strip in the dry bag, and my clothes came out nice and clean. Letting them soak in the bag while you shower really helps. I've weighed out 6 sheets, which should be enough for 36 washes, and they weigh just 1 ounce altogether.

I have the Euroschirm Telescope handsfree umbrella, which I've used on two Caminos and haven't had any problems with it. Especially when I figured out the right way to attach it to my waist belt - I bought it used without instsructions. It did turn inside out a couple of times in the wind, but it's easy to put it back again. It feels very stable. That said, I'm thinking of getting the their Light Trek Ultra umbrella to save some weight. I would have to rig it up myself my shoulder strap, and I'm not sure if it would be as secure as the hands free with the extra long handle. Unfortunately, the Euroschirm's US distributor is currently out of stock on the silver Light Trek Ultra, but I contacted Euroschirm on their Facebook page, and they say that they should be back in stock in a couple of weeks.
 

Great advise on laundry detergent sheets! Thanks! How much clothes could you fit into the 12l dry sack?

As for the umbrella - the Light Trek Ultra is of an interest for me because of the weight too.
 
Eugenia MinskLund said:
Great advise on laundry detergent sheets! Thanks! How much clothes could you fit into the 12l dry sack?

As for the umbrella - the Light Trek Ultra is of an interest for me because of the weight too.
Click to expand...
I could fit all the clothing that I wore each day into the dry sack with room left over. I really preferred this method over washing in the albergue laundry sinks, which I did on my first Camino. Lots of times you need to wait to use the sink, then you feel like you need to hurry up to let other pilgrims use it. Of course I do need to use the laundry sink to rinse the clothes out, but that doesn't take too long. When I get into the shower I just put a little water and my soap into the bag, then add my clothes and more water. Then I seal it up and let every thing soak. After my shower I agitate the bag a bit before emptying it into the laundry sink and rinsing my clothes. After wringing them out I lay them on my microfiber towel (my Packtowl is as large as a standard bath towel but only 3.4 ounces) roll it up and wring out the whole thing before hanging everything on the line.
 
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I have the handsfree model and it's very good. But heavy. I compensate by not taking a poncho.
(I like the weight of the ultra-light one! )
The Macabi I prefer is the short version (arrives just above my ankles), the medium one I also bought is just a bit too long I think (it covers my ankles) Size S forgot to say I'm about your height (1.60)
I haven't tried the slim version as postage is prohibitive now.
 
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I’m quite intrigued with this dry sack clothes washing method. Does the dry sack dry out overnight? Using the pack towel to help dry things out is a great idea. Those towels soak up an amazing amount of water.
 
tomnorth said:
I’m quite intrigued with this dry sack clothes washing method. Does the dry sack dry out overnight? Using the pack towel to help dry things out is a great idea. Those towels soak up an amazing amount of water.
Click to expand...
Yes, the dry sack is very lightweight, and dries quickly.
 
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tomnorth said:
I’m quite intrigued with this dry sack clothes washing method. Does the dry sack dry out overnight? Using the pack towel to help dry things out is a great idea. Those towels soak up an amazing amount of water.
Click to expand...

Tom, I had not heard of this method as well....Sounds really good and a great idea. I'm going to test this out in my home and see how it works but it should go well!!
 
1) Keen sandals - I have no idea

2) I always wash my clothes by hand

3) I always just buy a stick umbrella in Spain for under €10

4) I wear a Medium regular length Macabi. I am 5'3" and weigh about 160. I like the regular length because it protects my legs from sun and wind and rain. I like the regular instead of the slim because I sometimes like to sit cross-legged on the ground and I feel the slim style would be binding. Also, I sew my money belt into the waistband so the extra fabric does a great job of concealing it.
 
I've used this before in rain, wind, and sun, and can attest to its toughness, and for the UV protection it provides in desert sun. It is about 7 ounces / 198 grams.

This Euroschirm closest to the same quality would be this one.
 
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Annie, I have just been reading about your money-belt system! How long is the regular length on you? At the ankles or below them? My concern is that if it's too long, it will wipe the dust of the roads.
 
davebugg said:
I've used this before in rain, wind, and sun, and can attest to its toughness, and for the UV protection it provides in desert sun. It is about 7 ounces / 198 grams.

This Euroschirm closest to the same quality would be this one.
Click to expand...
I believe that both of those umbrellas are made by Euroschirm. I'm interested in the more compact (and I know more likely to have problems) Light Trek Ultra because I don't know how I'd carry a long umbrella.
 
trecile said:
I believe that both of those umbrellas are made by Euroschirm. I'm interested in the more compact (and I know more likely to have problems) Light Trek Ultra because I don't know how I'd carry a long umbrella.
Click to expand...

Your probably right about the manufacture, although both are mad in China. Probably just relabeled.
 
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Dry Bag "washing machine"

I have used a 2.5 gallon zip lock bag as a small washing machine. But, the dry bag method would likely be better., as the bag is more sturdy. I would recommend an 8-liter dry bag, as it is both a good size for doing the laundry, stuffing with clothes to use as a pillow, to hold dry clothes in a rucksack, or to lash your fluffy fleece when not needed to the top of bottom of your rucksack.

In fact, I need to test this idea at home. I have a couple of these ultra-sil dry bags. I actually used one to hold my fleece jacket this year on my Camino (Invierno). At the time, I was doing hand-wash in showers, tubs or sinks. It never occurred to me to try the dry bag...doh!

EuroSchirm Trekking Umbrella

I got one of these last summer to block the sun when I was standing outside the Pilgrim Office for hours on end as a volunteer. The Spanish sun is HOT! Anyway, I used it this year on Camino, with all the attachment stuff.

My take on it is this: It works wonderfully, EXCEPT when an opposing wind catches it, like when a semi-tractor trailer blows by you when road walking, or a gust of wind comes along. The umbrella is quick to turn inside out, but easy to flip back.

Consider that this umbrella IS a full meter in diameter (39.64") when open. So walking under it is like having a shade tree over you at all times. It is a lot cooler under the umbrella.

On balance, I think it is worth the weight...IF you counter-balance the added weight by leaving your rain coat / parka / shell out. Personally, I do continue to bring a über light weigh Sea to Summit sil-nylon poncho for heavy rain.

Alternative to ES trekking umbrella...

As an aside, one of the few pilgrims I met on my Camino this year was a Belgian fellow who had a very pragmatic approach to using a hiking umbrella. When we were walking together and it started to drizzle, he pulled out a standard-sized folding umbrella, opened it, and simply stuck it in his rucksack harness under the sternum strap where it intersects the should strap. The shaft was long enough to clear his head, that is the critical dimension here. The diameter of the umbrella is secondary...but cocktail umbrellas are not a good idea...

Meanwhile, I spent maybe 2 minutes fumbling with my complicated mounting system. Ij the end, he was under his umbrella and staying dryer faster than me. I am equally certain he spent less on his solution than I spent on mine.

The takeaway here is to experiment with a standard folding umbrella you have around the house first. Try the simple, just stuff it in your rucksack harness, approach first. If it works on a training walk, consider obtaining a similar umbrella with a reflective outside, as it will be much better against the hot sun. If you cannot find a reflective silver umbrella, consider a light color like powder blue, light yellow, or white. All will keep you equally dry, but lighter colors reflect more of the hot sun.

Hiking Sandals

I have Keen Arroyo II hiking sandals. I have not yet used them on Camino as I need the support of mid-height boots (Keen Targhee II). But I do wear them whenever I do my training walks at home. I also wear them when I do hikes with the local APOC chapter. They are as comfortable, but lighter and cooler than the Targhee II boots.

Macabi Hiking Skirt

As this is beyond my remit, so I cannot offer any input here.

Hope all of this helps.
 
Extremely helpful! As for the usual umbrella - I did try it with my backpack and it works!
 
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Annie, would you mind measuring the length of your skirt for me please?
 
I have been walking in my Macabi skirt and love it. I bought the regular length and slim fit. I don’t like how long it is and it wraps around my ankles when I walk. I’m going to buy the shorter version too. I’m not sure what size you would wear, but I measured my hips and went with the size that would easily slip over my hips and it fits perfect. If you look on their website there is a sizing guide.
 
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My advice would be to try walking in a longish, full skirt before you leave for the camino. I know many peregrinas love their macabi skirts but when I tried walking in one it definitely wasn’t for me, especially if it is windy. Not only did I find all that material sort of flapping around uncomfortable, I also found that the calves of my legs were unprotected from the sun and that is not good on the camino because the sun is generally at your back.
Now I am going to duck for cover.
 
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I love it on the wind. I just put the strap between my legs and it becomes pants. And mine completely covers my calves.
 
Re Keen Sandals: I have a pair of leather newports. Super robust but they are heavy and they keep your feet warm (good for UK spring not so good in Spanish heat). I've had a pair of Venice sandals in the past which felt similar to the Newports. I'm not so keen on the waterproof ones because the footbed got a bit sweaty. The other amusing 'problem' with Keen Newports/Venice/Arroyo is that you end up with weird triangular suntan marks on your feet that look a bit like a tiger pattern!

I've switched to using Teva Terra Fi Lite's now and walked the entire Cathar Trail (much wilder hiking trail) in them last year. Most of the CF is on very well made tracks so you don't need to worry too much about stubbed toes/rough terrain and the open sandals aren't problem. I would break your sandals in before you go. Mine normally rub a bit initially but after a few walks my skin toughens up and it's not a problem. A bit of Lanacane Anti-Chafing Gel helps too.
 
Anniesantiago said:
I love it on the wind. I just put the strap between my legs and it becomes pants. And mine completely covers my calves.
Click to expand...
Given the number of kilometres you have walked in a macabi skirt, I just want to ask if you are sure about that?
Nah...just joking.
Vive la diférence!
 
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Can you sit with your legs crossed on the ground in a slim fit?
 
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Sorry, typo, the short skirt version that cannot be made into pants
 
Hello,
Just finished the central portugese end of April. I had a collapsing umbrella for rain. I used it more for sun. It is small and easily tucked into the front of my pack and shirt. Also very easy to keep close to myself so the wind didn't move it so much, and also didn't bump into things in smaller walking areas.
Had a few smiles from fellow pilgrims and requests for a picture or two. I believe I might be described as the umbrella lady.

I also wore long sleeve lightweight UPF 30 shirts. Also very helpful keeping the sun off. I found a hat was very hot for me. Was very glad for the umbrella.
 
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wouldn´t like to get caught in a skirt, but a kilt !!
- a different proposal altogether...
According to the Scots: " it´s no skirt when you´r no wearin´ annythin´ underneath´! "
 
t2andreo said:
Actually, I DO have the legs for it.. but the whole kilt / man skirt thing is just not my look.

I prefer lots of pockets for stuff.
Click to expand...

this has good pockets !
http://www.utilikilts.com/the-workman-switchback-22101.html

and this one takes the bisquit !
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Mens-UTILI...849306?hash=item1ee085455a:g:pkEAAOSwPN9a8fho

"The Survival’s maximum capacity is 20 Bottles of the survival beverage of your choice. That’s six in the front slant pockets, ten in the cargo pockets and four in the back.
With the Survival around your waist, you’ll never go thirsty. "

- think of this in even beverage/boccadillos terms, you could last a whole day in this kilt !!
 
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I can comment on the keen sandals. I walked the Frances in keen whisper sandals. I liked that model because it had an adjustable Velcro at the heel so could easily adjust for thicker socks and uphill verses flat terrain,I also wore them for the Portuguese from Porto to Tui and no problems they still have good tread

I don’t use the Macabi story but do walk in a puma golf skirt it is very light weight so easy the start the day in leggings and change later in the day.
 
I have worn Keen Newport and Whisper on various Caminos (and walking at home and traveling). Newport soles last longer and have better traction but I’d buy either again.
Most importantly- which fits YOU best?
 
Debra Garcia said:
Sorry, typo, the short skirt version that cannot be made into pants
Click to expand...

I haven't walked yet- but I own and use both the short version and the long version. The main problem I'd have with the short version is that it wouldn't give me sun protection on my legs - I probably would wear the long version because of that - but take the short the version for evenings ?
 
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I used the SilverUV-treated hands-free TeleScope model by Euroschirm on a very hot 40 day May/June camino last year.
The shaft broke when trying to shorten it about 10 days into my camino, so it wasn't telescopic any more and had to be held in place with some duct tape. But the umbrella itself remained fully functional. I got a full refund from Euroschirm once I had finished my camino.
I wouldn't have wanted to walk without my umbrella and would definitely get another one (the non-telescopic version) for a future camino. I didn't find the weight to be an issue; I'd rather cut down on other gear. While not in use (only very early in the mornings) it was easy to store in the backpack's side pocket (even in addition to a bottle) and hold it in place with one of the compression straps.
It was wonderful to have my head and most of my upper body in the shade while walking.
The only time I struggled was while walking in the rain on a narrow path through shrubbery.
 


DUCK

I loved my long Macabi and clipped it up into a short skirt quite often. I’m 5’9” and the standard long came down to my ankles. Sometimes I wore it low on my hips; sometimes higher. It was important to me to wear a long skirt. The waist sizing is very forgiving. Elastic plus a drawstring. I wore it a lot on training walks, and unless you have very slender thighs, you will likely want a slip short underneath
 

Macabi pockets are really good. Hard to find anything better. That’s one nice thing I can say about Macabi skirts. Now can I think of anything else? Hmm...

Quack quack quack
 
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Hi @Eugenia MinskLund

Re. Keen sandals.

I wore Arroyo IIs last July on the Camino, so here are a few thoughts.

Firstly I picked the Arroyos for a couple of reasons; I've got widish feet and Keens seem to be good for that and I picked the Arroyos in particular because I was concerned that more open sandals would present issues with picking up pebbles (this drove me crazy on camino one.

Here are a couple of pros and cons. On the pros side they were extremely comfortable out of the box, I could have started walking with no breaking in, pebbles did not get in, while the holes are fairly small, even on very hot days I never felt like they were overheating, the drawstring laces are very convenient, I didn't ever feel they were too heavy (but then as a proportion of my bodyweight that's not a surprise)

As for cons, in two words - build quality. Having walked around 1300-1500km total by the end of the Camino the Keens were ready for the bin. The soles were in pretty good condition but almost everything about the uppers was not; the neoprene lining material had holes wearing through in multiple areas and both the laces and loops wore out rendering the sandals almost unwearable. In their defence I'm a heavy guy and give my footwear a lot of punishment, especially the laces which I like to tie very tight but I was still disappointed. I had actually identified the lace issue before I left for Spain and Keen were good enough to send me a spare pair free of charge which I also wore out, but when one of the fabric looped eyes wore out it was a pain.

So all in all if you're prepared to accept that they may not last much longer than one Camino they're great, but not so good for the long term.

Buen Camino,

Rob.
 
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Thanks Rob! Very helpful! I think I am ok with them surviving just the Camino (now I am more concerned about my knees not surviving it). I like the idea of really breaking them in prior to the trip to see if something fails. Looks like I have to order my pair asap. I am waiting for 4 boxes of Chacos to try out as well (different models and sizes). BI know people wear them, but I am generally hesitating to have shoes with a separate toe part. Let's see what feels better when they arrive.
 
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Thanks Trecile, great info on using the Dry Sack for washing, first I'd heard of it. Going to give it a try on a trip to Europe later this year.
 
I wear the chacos that don't have a separate toe loop. These sandals are bomb-proof, keep your feet airy, which prevents most blisters, and the pebble thing is rarely a problem. You just kick them out.
An advantage of the Arroyo over other Keens is that, with a full heel counter, they are the only sandals I know of that will accept an added insole.
 
I have skipped most of the replies, as I just want to say that my keen waterproof sandals are not comfortable on gritty ground. They are wonderful on city streets, and on grass or dirt paths. Sorry, I do not know the specific name, just Keen.
 
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I love my Macabi regular length slim skirt, wore it throughout my Camino in 2018. I wear it hiking locally and became a familiar figure around town when doing my training walks. I don't know anyone in my area who has one. I'll wear it again when I return to Spain for another Camino -- in a year? two? I wore merino wool leggings on cold mornings, took them off as the day wore on. I had no problems with sunburn (I'm 5'5") since the skirt came down midcalf. I also wore a sun protective shirt over a t shirt every day. I had planned a trip to the
Nakasendo Way in Japan this spring, sadly cancelled by COVID-19 travel restrictions.
 

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