RE: [Paddlewise] Ballast

> From: "K. Whilden" <kwhilden_at_u.washington.edu>

> 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,

If you consider sponsons a better stability aid than your own body,
why is this better than using ballast?  Wouldn't this too, fall
in the category of not developing adequate skills according to your
logic?  I don't understand the difference.

Have you paddled the Khatsalano (unsponsoned version)?

There are some touring boats that are much better paddled when they are
loaded.  Would you consider that "extra comfort in paddling" a substitute 
for good skills?  And when I don't add some type of ballast to my boat when 
I have my co-captain (see http://www.gasp-seakayak.net/poochyak.html ), she 
can make the event turn into quite a workout.  Actually, she's great for
practicing bracing :-)  I can paddle the boat with her on deck while not 
carrying ballast, but I just can't take pictures.  Especially when a 
pelican lands nearby.


Jackie
http://www.gasp-seakayak.net/

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