River rats know where to spend their money.
Shoes: optional. Clothes: Goodwill. Sleeping pad: Paco. Hardly the cheapest of sleeping pads but unquestionably the best, Paco Pads ($135 to $270) are ubiquitous on extended river trips.
Three inches of self-inflating, high-density foam wrapped in PVC-coated plastic, the indestructible Paco delivers a plush snooze anywhere. Release the watertight valve to roll and stow, then pop the straps and throw it anywhere for La-Z-Boy comfort. They’re also worry-free: A cactus needle puncture doesn’t ruin sleepytime. Made in Aztec, N.M., by the waterlogged crew at Jack’s Plastic Welding, the Paco Pad comes in six sizes, including a doublewide that fits perfectly in the back of a pickup. Pony up and you might find yourself choosing the Paco over your bed at home.
Find it: www.jpwinc.com. Also available at Down River Equipment in Wheat Ridge (12100 W. 52nd Ave., #101), AAA Inflatables in Denver (3264 Larimer St.) and Confluence Kayaks in Denver (1615 Platte St.).
