Re: [Paddlewise] Roll, Roll, Roll Your Boat

From: K. Whilden <kwhilden_at_u.washington.edu>
Date: Sun, 22 Feb 1998 19:30:32 -0800 (PST)
When I first learned to roll, it was the sweep. I have noticed that
kayakers are split evenly over which roll is easiest to learn first. Some
people find the C to C roll easier, although I don't know why.

 In general, I think the C to C lends itself towards a stronger hipsnap,
while the sweep roll is better in turbulent or rough water and when speed
is of the essence. 

 Both types of rolls work just fine, as the advantages/disadvantages are
relatively minor. The absolutely key aspect is to use whichever roll works
best for you and is the most reliable. 


 Ultimately, I recommend using a combination sweep and C to C roll once
one roll has been mastered. This combines the power of the C to C with the
speed of the sweep. In particular, I think it gives the paddler the most
control during the instant when an upright state is achieved. This can be
important if in the middle of a rapid or very rough ocean conditions such
as surf zones. 

 I think hands rolls are also a valuable skill. Sometimes your paddle can
break or be removed from your grasp, and a roll is ALWAYS preferable to a
swim and a rescue. Also, if your handroll is solid, you might gain the
confidence to go hand-paddling in the surf (small) or the river, which is
VERY good for skill building. Finally, developing a good handroll also
means developing a good hipsnap -- another critical aspect of developing
that bomproof roll.

 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)|
\--------------------------------------------/ \---------------------------/



 
 

On Mon, 23 Feb 1998, wildwater wrote:

> I was just out today working on C & C rolls.  I was wondering if
> most use this type of roll or a sweep roll of if you have a
> preference depending on conditions.  What about hand rolling?
> 
> Alice
> 
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Received on Sun Feb 22 1998 - 19:31:07 PST

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