The fellows at Rokslide met the owner of this company at the recent Expo and arranged to have one sent to me for review. Ignore the neon green color; it comes in much more neutral colors. Because sales among hunters have been so high, this is the only color they had in stock at the Expo.
Here’s what they have to say about the Walking Pod:
“Wearable protection that moves with you. With our 22×22 Walking Pod, you’ll have instant protection from anything Mother Nature brings at you while you stay on the go. Pop it open, slip it on for instant rain protection literally anywhere you are. This pop-up Pod is perfect for anyone who thrives or works outside.”
You can see it here. The pod retails for $99.
Testing the Walking Pod
I’ll be honest: I didn’t think there was much of a chance I’d like this, but after using it, I think it has potential. In its current form, it weighs just shy of 4 lbs, pretty heavy, imho. I talked to the owner, Rick, and discussed lightening it. I suggested silpoly or silnylon and estimated that the pod would weigh under two pounds in a 15d fabric of either, while still providing good weather protection. Also some of the clear plastic could be ditched in favor of nylon noseeum netting. This would further lighten it and provide bug protection at the same time. Rick also said if there was enough interest, he’d be willing to source some camo patterns. Either or both of these changes would, of course, increase the price tag, but it shouldn’t be too big of an increase, especially if they just go with Woodland camo (my personal favorite.)
It does pack up pretty small, roughly the size of a large dinner plate, and easily fits in a pack.
The pod has an inside harness that resembles a backpack. To don it, you slip your arms through the shoulder straps, adjust the shoulder straps, sternum strap, and waist belt, and you’re good to go.
There are arm slits that allow you to put your arms through; it works well enough, but I found them a little tight.
I got to use the pod in an almost whiteout snow squall and I stayed perfectly dry. I also got use it in several very windy situations and it does the trick with wind too. You’d have to be a little careful taking it off and putting it on in high wind or it could end up a county over!
I’m 5’11” and 185-ish lbs, and there is plenty of room for folks larger than this (and more than enough room for folks smaller).
Use and Discussion
I got to use the pod on several outings, and while the weather was nice most of the time, several days saw high winds and one pretty extraordinary snowstorm. I don’t think this item will ever be a mainstream piece of kit for hunters; I do think there are definitely scenarios where it would be very useful. Getting out of the weather for a break, snack or lunch. Also I tried it glassing with a tripod and have to admit it worked well and was nice to get out of the wind.
If they can get the pod to weigh under two pounds (and possibly offer up some camo patterns) I definitely think there would be some interest.
I have multiple trips planned for the Walking Pod including a partner trip (can two “men” really hunt in this thing?) and if I get my elk, I’ll give the pack-out an honest shot with the walking pod. Depending on these outcomes, this could very well end up on Rokslide’s “Best of 2025” gear list.
Downside
In true Rokslide fashion, I need to mention that if you fart in this thing, it can linger for hours. This could be mitigated with zipper vents, but those would affect the weight. Some users will choose to just suffer through it, while a few others like here will likely enjoy the experience. The jury is still out for me, so I’ll provide feedback at the discussion link below as I spend more time in the Walking Pod.
Comment or ask Mike questions here.
*Walking Pod is not a Rokslide sponsor, and the writer was given full authority to give his satirical opinion on this unique and innovative product.
