[Paddlewise] What do you paddle?

Well, you guys seemed determined to get everyone to respond, so...

I found the P&H Capella to be the best plastic boat for me. I liked the
price of plastic and figured that as my skills grew, I would want to buy
a different boat anyway.  

Recently, I have been trying out some glass boats, and can't seem to
find anything that is big enough for me to fit and allow for a layback
roll (I'm 6'4" 235lbs). You Valley/Romany/Falcon16 paddlers should be
thankful - I can only get one leg into those boats! Yes, I squeeezed
into a Falcon 16 once and actually got stuck in there!! It was quite a
struggle (even on land) for me to get back out. There are very few
choices for those of us who need a larger boat, but don't want to paddle
a barge. I guess I'll just have to remain on Dana's waiting list until
he can build me a custom model.

My wife has found a North Shore Fuego fits her great. She used to suffer
from the too big of boat syndrome (an Aquaterra Sea Lion).  After
repeatedly falling out during rolling practice (even with massive pads),
she had an excuse to get a nice glass boat. (I do get to carry it and
wash it, however.)

BTW, you would not believe the reactions our boats get out here in
central California, where we recently moved from Florida. It seems as if
they have never seen a British boat out here. Everyone asks what kind of
boats they are. An experienced instructor recently looked at my boat and
asked, "Is that made in Florida? I've never heard of P&H." (But, I'll
cut her some slack - I think she can surf circles around me.) If only I
could fit into an Anas Acuta - now that would really draw a crowd!

Frank
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