Subject: Re: [baidarka] Aspect ratio of apples and oranges
From: RCH3149@aol.com
Date: Fri Jun 22 2001 - 12:22:41 EDT
Joe, just try using a Greenland paddle with a well designed / developed blade cross-section, employing the forward-canted top edge approach so eloquently described by Greg Stamer and Ray Killan.
Yes, you will be hauling back on the working blade (but see further coments re path of the blade below!) and pushing forward with the top hand, but you will also inevitably be slicing the blade sideways through the water. And in consequence you will create lift normal to the direction of travel of the blade in direct analogy to an airplane wing ... or call it hydrofoil.
Once you get used to it, try observing the path of the blade relative to the water (and comparing it to hauling a Euro blade backwards through the water). There are elements of this path, which are similar to that of the wing paddle -- a wing paddle, in the hands of a compentent user, can move forward with respect to the water even while it moves backward with respect to the kayak.
The component of lift (on the slicing blade) in the direction of travel of the boat, is what opposes the force, which you're applying on the blade by hauling backwards on it.
Sounds too weird?
Try it on the water and don't give up until you can do it. I suggest that you do not worry about the angle of attack when experimenting, but rather that you try to feel the feedback you get form the blade without looking at it initially.
This approach to paddling is not difficult, just somewhat different from the style with which most paddlers grew up. When it works, it prvides a great feeling of relief after all the grey theory!
:-)
Best regards,
Ralph
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