Two unique outdoor products for the Great North-wet

One look at the best-known brands in the outdoor industry proves that the Seattle area has no shortage of inventive people. REI, Therm-a-Rest, MSR, Outdoor Research, KAVU, K2 and Sage Fly Rods, among others, grew out of the creative minds of Western Washington outdoor enthusiasts. Knowing that creative spirit lives on, we decided to take a look at some new, uniquely Seattle products.

Seattle's Mambe Waterproof Blankets offers a series of ground covers ideal for campers and recreationists who have to deal with typical Northwest weather. Mambe's Outdoor Blanket that we tested provides a simple solution to staying dry and comfortable when sitting around camp, picnicking in the park, or resting on the beach. The Outdoor Blanket features a soft, fleece top on which to sit or recline. The blanket's tough urethane-coated nylon backing is fully waterproof, so when you're camped at Fort Ebey, or simply enjoying a concert in Marymoor Park, you'll stay warm and dry while reclining on the lawn.

Mambe blankets come in a variety of colors and sizes. The Outdoor Blanket features 200-weight polar fleece in two sizes: 4 feet by 5 feet or 5 feet by 7 feet. They also offer the large size in a luxury version, which features a high-loft, 300-weight fleece for a softer, warmer feel. The Outdoor Blanket runs $49 and $89 for the two sizes. The luxury version sells for $109. See www.mambeblankets.com.

Also from Seattle, the JakPak jacket/shelter proves to be a truly unique piece of equipment — or apparel, depending on its configuration. The jacket component fits comfortably, with pit zips and a large, comfortable hood. The fit is just loose enough that you can add insulation layers underneath.

If all you need is the jacket, you can detach and leave behind the other components. But if you want an all-in-one weather-protection system, the sleeping bag/bivy fits into a broad pocket in the jacket's back panel so it goes with you when you wear the jacket.

To deploy the bivy, simply unfold the leg section, slip your legs into the bag and zip it all up. You can then unfurl some slim rods and pop them into the mesh screen cover to create a mosquito-proof tent over your head.

Though the JakPak is not a product everyone will need or enjoy, it is a great fit for those hikers who want to get out with an absolute minimum amount of gear. The new waterproof-breathable version weighs just under 3 pounds for all components (size medium) and sells for $250. More information at www.jakpak.com.