Re: [Paddlewise] Lightning Paddles

Bill:

I bought the lightweight paddle.  And it is significantly lighter than the
Mid-swift paddle.  It is graphite... as is the swift.  I have had the blade
on my swift chip, but I haven't noticed a signifant difference in paddling
with it.

I had used the standard touring paddle (lightening) in Gronseth's 5 day
course and liked it very much.

I didn't ask for a trial period, and just ordered from them directly...
after a visit with Hank.  He was extremely helpful.  Actually, I was
thinkng about a blade with a little more surface area, but Hank assured me
that the standard touring paddle would be sufficient.  He was absolutely
right.

I primarily tour the texas coast and surf.  I wanted a blade that would
offer a little more "purchase" for bracing and rolling in rough water.  The
lightening paddle gives me that.  I had learned to roll with a lightening
paddle.  When I got home, back to my "Mid-Swift" I missed the first three
rolls.  This got me to thinking, both about my rolls and about my paddle.
I did about 400 rolls with the Mid-Swift... and only start missing rolls
when I get tired (isn't that when you need it the most?)

So far, I would say that I prefer the Lightening over the Mid-Swift...
hands down.

Hope this is helpful.  I would appreciate your sharing what Hank has to
say.  In fairness to the Mid-Swift, I would have to admit that the higher
aspect paddle is easier to pull through the water... but, it is also much
heavier.


Robert

cc: Paddlewise


>
>Right now I am shopping for a new paddle.  I'm very interested in the
>Lightning paddles.  I see from a previous post that you are using a
>Lightning Standard Touring paddle.  I'm more interested in the Skimmer or
>Off Shore, however I would like to hear from you you assessment of the
>paddle you have.  Did you buy the fiberglass or  graphite?  Why?  Light
>weight or expedition weight?
>
>I have a lengthy inquiry into Hank Hays, however he says he is just leaving
>on vacation and will respond to me in a week or so.
>
>In a week or two, I expect the kayak shops to begin having their fall
>sales.  No dealer near me stocks Lightning, so, if I decide to buy one, it
>would be by mail/email order.  Did you buy from a local dealer or directly
>from Hank?  Was there a trial period?
>
>If I don't go for the Lightning, I will most likely go for the Werner Camano.
>
>Any information you can give is most appreciated.
>
>Bill Leonhardt



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