Some of the summits here are very steep. In addition, they are covered with decomposed granite, cacti and other unpleasant things. The granite can be anywhere in size from a pea to a bowling ball or larger. When you have to cross large fields of gravel on steep inclines, sitting and "scootching" is the safest way to travel.
This will serve a dual purpose of being a seating pad (to stop cactus needles) and a butt skid plate when necessary.