RE: [Paddlewise] Ballast

Can somebody please remind why there is so much interest in ballast?

If this is for improving stability, then I consider adding ballast an
inferior approach. The best possible way to improve stability in your boat
is to improve your technique and your fit in the boat. For the latter,
there is a great article in the recent Feb issue of Sea Kayaker, for the
former, I can recommend several ways to improve your balance and edging
skills, from simple exercises to do while paddling, to a full-blown river
kayaking course.

I really hope that nobody is considering ballast as a substitute for
paddling skill. There is no better stability aid in a kayak than your own
body!!!!! (except sponsons of course, which are obviously not subject to
the law of gravity.)

Kevin

/--------------------------------------------\ /---------------------------\
|Something there is that doesn't love a wall  |       Kevin Whilden        |
|That sends the frozen-ground-swell under it  | kwhilden_at_u.washington.edu  |
|And spills the upper boulders in the sun     | Dept. of Geologic Science  |
|And makes gaps that even two can pass abreast| University of Washington   |
|			-- Robert Frost	      |(206)543-1975(w) 632-5140(h)|
\--------------------------------------------/ \---------------------------/



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