Rite in the Rain Hard Bound Notebook Review

Let’s Dive into Rite in the Rain Hard Bound Notebook

The Rite in the Rain Hard Bound Notebook is not your average journal. Crafted by Rite in the Rain, this notebook is built to withstand the elements, ensuring your thoughts and notes survive even the harshest conditions. Its rugged construction and water-resistant paper set it apart, making it an essential tool for anyone who spends time outdoors.

My search for the perfect outdoor notebook stemmed from years of soggy, ruined field notes. I needed something that could handle unexpected rain, accidental spills, and the general wear and tear of being tossed into a backpack or cargo pocket. The Rite in the Rain Hard Bound Notebook seemed to be the solution to my waterlogged woes.

Unboxing the Rite in the Rain Hard Bound Notebook revealed a deceptively simple yet robust design. The black Fabrikoid cover feels substantial and durable, while the paper has a unique texture that hints at its water-resistant properties. The sewn binding gives the notebook a quality feel, suggesting it will hold up to rigorous use.

I considered the Moleskine Cahier and Field Notes notebooks, both popular options, before settling on the Rite in the Rain Hard Bound Notebook. However, neither of those offered true water resistance, a critical factor for my needs. I was immediately excited by the promise of a notebook that could withstand the elements without sacrificing the writing experience. The subdued aesthetic also appealed to me, as it felt more professional and less flashy than some other outdoor notebooks.


Real-World Testing: Putting Rite in the Rain Hard Bound Notebook to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real test of the Rite in the Rain Hard Bound Notebook came during a week-long fly fishing trip in the Pacific Northwest. This meant constant exposure to rain and damp conditions. I used the notebook to record river conditions, hatch patterns, and fishing strategies, often writing with wet hands.

The Rite in the Rain Hard Bound Notebook performed admirably in the wet environment. Water beaded up on the paper, and even when the notebook got thoroughly soaked, my notes remained legible. I also appreciated the ease of writing on the paper, even with a standard ballpoint pen.

There was no real learning curve to using the Rite in the Rain Hard Bound Notebook. Its simplicity is part of its appeal. I did, however, initially find the paper’s texture slightly different than standard notebook paper, but quickly adjusted.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Rite in the Rain Hard Bound Notebook continues to impress. It’s been subjected to rain, snow, mud, and even a brief accidental submersion in a stream. The Rite in the Rain Hard Bound Notebook has stood up to it all.

The Fabrikoid cover shows minimal signs of wear, and the sewn binding remains tight and secure. The paper hasn’t yellowed or deteriorated. The Rite in the Rain Hard Bound Notebook wipes clean easily, and the pages retain their integrity even after repeated exposure to moisture.

Compared to previous notebooks that would have disintegrated under similar conditions, the Rite in the Rain Hard Bound Notebook is a clear winner. It has exceeded my expectations for durability and reliability. My old notebooks would have been ruined, making the Rite in the Rain Hard Bound Notebook worth every penny.

Breaking Down the Features of Rite in the Rain Hard Bound Notebook

Specifications

The Rite in the Rain Hard Bound Notebook boasts several key specifications that contribute to its exceptional performance. It measures 4 3/4 inches x 7 1/2 inches, making it compact enough to carry comfortably yet large enough for extensive note-taking.

  • The page pattern is a Dark Gray Universal, providing a subtle grid that aids in both writing and sketching.
  • The binding is Sewn, ensuring the notebook lies relatively flat and the pages remain securely attached.
  • The cover is made of Fabrikoid, a durable, water-resistant material that protects the pages from the elements.
  • It contains 160 pages (80 sheets) of Rite in the Rain‘s proprietary water-resistant paper.
  • The notebook weighs 0.65 lbs, striking a good balance between portability and substantial feel.

These specifications are crucial for the notebook’s intended purpose. The water-resistant paper is the most important feature, allowing users to write in wet conditions without ruining their notes. The durable cover and sewn binding ensure the notebook can withstand the rigors of outdoor use.

Performance & Functionality

The Rite in the Rain Hard Bound Notebook excels at its primary function: allowing users to write in wet conditions. The paper repels water effectively, and ink doesn’t bleed or smear, even when the paper is damp.

The notebook’s strength lies in its reliability in challenging environments. The only potential weakness is that the paper requires a specific type of pen or pencil for optimal performance. Gel pens and some fountain pens may smear more easily than ballpoint pens or pencils. It consistently meets and exceeds expectations for a durable, weather-resistant notebook.

Design & Ergonomics

The Rite in the Rain Hard Bound Notebook features a simple, utilitarian design. The black Fabrikoid cover is understated and professional, and the overall build quality is excellent.

The notebook’s weight is comfortable for carrying in a backpack or cargo pocket. There’s no learning curve to using the notebook, and the sewn binding allows it to lie relatively flat, making writing easier.

Durability & Maintenance

The Rite in the Rain Hard Bound Notebook is built to last. The Fabrikoid cover is resistant to scratches and tears, and the sewn binding ensures the pages remain securely attached.

The notebook requires minimal maintenance. Wiping the cover with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. The water-resistant paper is designed to withstand the elements, so there’s no need to take special precautions to protect it from moisture.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Rite in the Rain Hard Bound Notebook doesn’t come with any specific accessories. The beauty of the notebook lies in its simplicity.

However, it’s compatible with a variety of pens and pencils. Ballpoint pens and pencils work best on the water-resistant paper. You could also customize the cover with stickers or patches to personalize it.

Pros and Cons of Rite in the Rain Hard Bound Notebook

Pros

  • Exceptional water resistance: The paper truly lives up to its name, allowing you to write in wet conditions without worry.
  • Durable construction: The Fabrikoid cover and sewn binding ensure the notebook can withstand the rigors of outdoor use.
  • Versatile page pattern: The Dark Gray Universal pattern is suitable for both writing and sketching.
  • Compact and portable: The size and weight make it easy to carry in a backpack or cargo pocket.
  • Professional aesthetic: The understated design is suitable for both professional and personal use.

Cons

  • Specific pen/pencil requirements: Some pens (gel pens, certain fountain pens) may smear more easily on the paper.
  • Price: It is more expensive than standard notebooks.


Who Should Buy Rite in the Rain Hard Bound Notebook?

The Rite in the Rain Hard Bound Notebook is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, field researchers, surveyors, construction workers, pro anglers, and anyone who needs to take notes in challenging environments. It’s the ideal companion for those who spend time in the elements and require a reliable way to record their observations.

Anyone primarily using a fountain pen or those on a very tight budget might want to skip this product. Some gel pens and fountain pens aren’t optimal. Also, if you primarily work in controlled indoor environments, a standard notebook might suffice.

A reliable ballpoint pen or pencil is a must-have accessory. Consider a pen specifically designed for Rite in the Rain paper for optimal performance.

Conclusion on Rite in the Rain Hard Bound Notebook

The Rite in the Rain Hard Bound Notebook is a worthwhile investment for anyone who needs a durable, water-resistant notebook. It’s a reliable tool that delivers on its promises.

The price is justified by its exceptional performance and long-lasting durability. It will save you from the frustration of ruined notes.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Rite in the Rain Hard Bound Notebook to anyone who works or plays in the outdoors. It’s a small but essential piece of gear that can make a big difference. Don’t let rain or spills ruin your ideas – grab a Rite in the Rain Hard Bound Notebook and start capturing your thoughts, no matter the weather.

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