Synmat Basic 7.5

I don't do many gear type reviews (even though I do like shiny new things) mainly cause I don't feel like I know anything or get out and use things enough.  One exception is the Exped Synmat Basic 7.5 which I have owned for nearly 2 years now.

In desert action!

I must of used it over 50 times now in varied conditions, hot summer, desert, gravel, tent, cold, etc.  I take care with what I put it on and try to use a tarp or groundsheet underneath it but due to use in festivals I might not have always been as careful as I should of been!  (drunken Andy is not as dainty or lightfooted...). 

Challenge Update 2

Well I'm still behind with my trip reports.  Missing 4 treks in Jordan.  In summary it was hot and sandy.  I will stick something more substantial at some point!  It was a great week though and formed most of the walking for the month.  The bad news was that I got ill on the way back and was under the weather for about 2 weeks.  I was also suffering from itspissingitdownitus....

I did 5 walks in the month which averaged as 6.58 miles per walk, a nice increase in malleage from the first month.  Still behind on most scores but I'm not too worried (yet!) as I have a few multi day walks planned that should drag things back up.

Month 1 = 7 walks for 31.8 miles, 1518m ascent and 15 nights camping.
Month 2 = 5 walks for 32.88 miles, 996m ascent and 4 nights camping.
Total = 12 walks for 64.68 miles, 2514m ascent and 19 nights camping.

By the averages I should be at around 18 walks, 126.8 miles, 3640m and 8 nights camping.  Yup I need to up my game!  This month will also be on the low side, arse definitely needs to find first gear.  Not too worried about the ascent and the camping (a walk up Snowdon would half the deficit for example) but the mileage is in danger of running away from me.