Re: [Paddlewise] My final thoughts on Sponsons

From: Julio MacWilliams <juliom_at_cisco.com>
Date: Tue, 23 Feb 1999 23:06:44 -0800 (PST)
I have a one of those solid paddlefloats. I added a strap so I can
grab it securely with my hand and roll up with it without a paddle.

They are not that bulky, only 7 liters. However, for beginners that
is their drawback--they do not offer as much buoyancy as the bigger
inflatable paddlefloats. They sink easily if you put all your weight
on them.

For intermediate/advanced paddlers, who paddle in conditions where
_quick_ rescues are needed, the advantage of not having to inflate
the float, the fact that it never fails due to a leak, and the ability
to retrieve it from the aft deck with your hands and roll with it,
make a solid paddlefloat the best choice.

You can have the best of both worlds. Have a solid paddlefloat on
your aft deck, and an inflatable one stowed in an accessible place
inside your hull.

- Julio

>     One last thing on paddle floats too, I've seen some from companies =
> like North Water that aren't the blow up kind but pretty much a piece of =
> foam in a mesh bag, besides being bulky to carry, do any of you use =
> these and are they worth trying out?
>     Thanks again
> John

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Received on Tue Feb 23 1999 - 23:08:19 PST

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