Reviews of equipment, books and apparel geared toward outdoor enthusiasts
The Perfect Bungees
A bungee cord is like duct tape - you can use it to tie down anything and fix almost any problem ... well, at least that's how my family has always perceived it.
I have seen my dad, grandfather, uncles, husband and mother use bungee straps to hold down, fix or "jimmy" just about everything.
For us, they are something no one leaves home without when they are boating, camping, fishing, ATVing or carrying a large load of anything on any kind of vehicle.
The Perfect Bungees are cords made of a super-strong and pretty durable material, what the company calls a polyurethane construction. Some even were so strong that just to pull each end was tough.
They are described as "non-load-bearing cords (that) have nylon ends that won't stretch or gouge, while the galvanized straps are suitable for all load-bearing applications."
Once you do get them hooked on something and expand them, they do work. They can stretch far beyond their original size but always return to their original length.
I recently used them on an ATVing trip with my Uncle Doug. We actually "jimmied" them to act as a seat belt for me as a passenger on the back of the ATV. It worked and they were very versatile in their use.
My uncle's thoughts were:
"They are very durable, extremely easy to use and the extensions that come with them are outstanding. They hold things in place and can be used for many different applications. I dont know how they will be in extreme cold, but I think they will be fine."
We used the cord with the loop end to create the seat belt.
The most unique out of the bunch is the Flex Web model. It's a spider-like bungee, with several different cords coming from an O-ring in the middle that can be used to make the straps move in different directions. I believe this product can accomplish an endless list of jobs.
The bungee cords are made by a company called Just Ducky. Types include:
Strap - With S-hooks made of galvanized stainless steel. Your standard bungee;
Cord - Non-load bearing with tough nylon hooks; won't scratch;
Loop-end Cord - Nylon hook on one end and a molded loop on the other;
Fixed-end Cord - A heavy-duty nylon hook on one end and a secure nylon clip on other;
Flex Web - Several fixed-end cords strung together with a central O-ring to create a four-, six- or eight-arm "web" in two lengths;
Boat Snubber - Molded loops on each end; 1,000-pound capacity;
Utility Suspender - Molded loops on each end.
I haven't tested the product for its resistance to saltwater, oil, ozone and a laundry list of other common household chemicals, but the company claims the cords are resistant.
They are guaranteed for life. Perfect Bungees are available in a variety of lengths and colors.
They are sold at stores including Cabela's, Bass Pro as well as online at www.theperfectbungee. com.
- Reviewed by Jessica Welshans and Doug Lamey Sr.
