Subject: Re: baidarka Feathered paddles
From: wayne steffens (wsteffen@mr.net)
Date: Fri Feb 25 2000 - 22:24:26 EST
I haven't used it yet while surfing any big waves and
>wonder if it would be as useful as a wide blade for a high brace especially
>in a broach position sideways surf leaning on a high brace.
I've never had any problem using a Greenland-type paddle in surf. In fact
I'd probably be swimming if I used a Euro paddle in surf. If you are
broached, and in surf, then chances are you are moving shoreward and the
narrow blade gives more than enough purchase as it slides over the water.
Heck, you can lay on your side or even partially capsized on the seaward
side and the paddle will still give plenty purchase (unless its in foam).
One wonders if there would be enough time in real conditions to
>extend a greenland blade.
I'm always trying to stay one step ahead of what the waves are going to do.
Thats easiest in surf because the waves are usually only coming from one
direction. When I succeed in that, which I usually do, theres plenty of
time to extend the paddle. It might be trickier in rough weather in open
water where the waves are less predictable. I dont do the high brace
unextended if I dont have to, because of a shoulder problem thats in
remission. Most people I paddle with in surf just go for the high brace
without extending their Greenland paddles. I always extend the paddle for
rolls too, again because its easier for me and just a habit. I can roll
without extending if I have too, but I usually save that for emergencies
only (ie out of breath and no choice but swimming), and practice it only
occasionally.
Wayne
-
Baidarka Mailing List - All postings copyright the author and not to be
reproduced outside Baidarka or Baidarka archives without author's permission
Submissions: baidarka@lists.intelenet.net
Subscriptions: baidarka-request@lists.intelenet.net
Searchable archive: http://rtpnet.org/robroy/baidarka
This archive was generated by hypermail 2b27 : Wed Mar 01 2000 - 01:00:03 EST