Subject: Re: [baidarka] Paddle Dynamics 101
From: kattenbo@greennet.net
Date: Sat Jun 23 2001 - 07:12:42 EDT
As Greg and Vincent said, native paddles were designed as multi-functional
tools that were part of an effecient system primarily usually focused on
hunting a variety of critters (sea and land depending on the region) and
returning said game, and incidentally the occupant, safely to shore.
Secondarily they were used for transport, communication and a variety of
other purposes including, I gotta believe, just to go out and fool around
with. One thing I find missing (or maybe I just missed it) from most
conversations about Inuit paddling is any concept that these folks had a
good sense of humor and ability to enjoy themselves. Peterson does
include one short segment in Skinboats where he talks about a hunter who
simply loved to paddle in rough water. And when I look at the thirty
competitive exercises used in the rolling competition, I also gotta
believe that while a majority of them may have had very pragmatic uses,
there's at least one in there that resulted from someone saying to his
mates "hey guys, look what I can do!".
Folks paddle for a huge numbers of reasons (including to explore the
nuances of paddle design), but I suspect it is an extrodinary minority who
use the kayak and native paddles for the primary purpose they were
originally designed. I suspect the one common reason we all paddle is for
the smiles. So smile guys.
Keith
---- NDK Romany, red over white Greenland "Home-builts" (various) Cricket "Inuit" (226cm), "Storm "(171cm)Chris Brown <chris.brown@zetnet.co.uk> Sent by: owner-baidarka@lists.intelenet.net 06/23/01 04:22 AM
To: <baidarka@lists.intelenet.net> cc: Subject: Re: [baidarka] Paddle Dynamics 101
The message <73.eeade1a.28621ae4@aol.com> from RCH3149@aol.com contains these words:
[snip]
> All three of us were perfectly comfortable with our individual techniques and paddles and this was by no means a test of the "superiority" of one method of propulsion over another.]
> Best regards, > Ralph
The real answer to which blade and techniquie is best! The one that suits you!. So as with boats keep trying new blades and new techniques - just make sure you are comfortable and not becomming a slave to an idea.
-- Chris Brown
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