In a message dated 98-05-05 09:23:39 EDT, you write: << I don't understand why people in hardshells don't use a rigid paddle float rather than the inflatable kind. The inflatable kind makes sense for someone in a folding kayak in which the rigid type of paddle float takes up roam in the kayak carrying bags. But if you have a boat that can't fold, why have a folding paddle float? They have several advantages. 1) No air leaks. And, 2) no wasted breath in blowing them up in scary conditions. It is amazing how being scared makes you a bit short of breath especially as water is gushing up close to your mouth and nose and you feel the shock of cold water against your lungs. I have often thought of getting one for any boat I am leaving assembled for long periods. They make good seats too on rocky beaches. ralph diaz -- >> The one reason many prefer the inflatable paddle float bag over the rigid minicell is that it provides much more buoyancy. I have had some people in my rescue class with the minicell float and half of the time as they are climbing on the the kayak the float sinks before they get in. This would depend on your weight. Before you spend the money on one, borrow someone elses and try it out to see if it works for you. As for leaks, most inflatables have two chambers. If one fails the other will provide probably the same amount of support as a minicell block. And we all know a lot of people who are full of hot air to readily blow that thing up. ; -) You can also use it as a pillow at night to get your beauty rest. Ray Killen Katabasis L.L.C. I'd rather be upside down in my kayak than sitting upright at my desk! http://members.aol.com/kayakillen/katabasis *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List Submissions: paddlewise_at_lists.intelenet.net Subscriptions: paddlewise-request_at_lists.intelenet.net Website: http://www.gasp-seakayak.net/paddlewise/ ***************************************************************************Received on Tue May 05 1998 - 15:13:13 PDT
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