This correspondent has obtained access to secret documents relating to a new product, aimed at pilgrims. ONIMAC International Ltd, a boutique company specialising in innovation for the hiker, is set to launch the "Balloon Assisted Load Lightening System" (BALLS).
This consists of small capsules of helium gas attached to backpacks, which when inflated support the weight, allowing heavy loads to be carried effortlessly.
Critics have expressed fears that unscrupulous people will use extra capsules in order to float above the path without actually walking. Richard Head, Onimac CEO, was dismissive: "I don't believe true pilgrims would stoop to such trickery", he said, "and in any case the authorities would never issue a compostela for this kind of assisted travel".
The capsules are currently on trial at a secret location in central Europe, and go on sale April 1st for an estimated 200 euros per set, reflecting the huge research and development costs involved.