Re: [Paddlewise] Cost of Kayaking ( was Costco)

Jim Holman wrote:
> 
> Dan Volker wrote:
> > "If cost is the real driving force, then we have a responsibility to
> > newcomers to help them find good used boats."

> As a beginner, I'm finding that the cost of accessories and training is
> more of a problem than buying a boat.

Jim makes a good case for this being an expensive sport, if done "right." 
Others have castigated various mass merchandisers for selling entry-level
boats without the requisite "safety" warnings.  Yet more have asserted that
some mass merchandisers do make an effort to make boat purchasers aware of
basic safety stuff.  Finally, a small contingent allows that we should let
the gene pool be improved, by seeing who survives.

What's the answer?  Something in the middle -- or, maybe -- in the muddle.

There is no "right answer."  There are lots of not-so-good ways to start,
some more ideal than others.  Some cheaper.

My bottom line is to use good judgement.   Meaning, ask around and see what
works.  Start slow and learn from those you paddle with.  Every now and
then, you will do something which in retrospect you will realize had a
sizeable potential for disaster.  That's how we learn.

It's silly to beat up on Costco (REI, etc.).  They are just a piece of the
marketing spectrum, and 90% of those boats go to the lake and get used when
it's warm and mellow.  We can not "protect" everybody -- and we do NOT have
the responsibility to make paddling 100% safe for everybody.  We can't do
that anyway.

We CAN offer clinics and lessons and advice.  We CAN serve as good role
models.  And that's the best we can do.  

How about we drop this thread?  The problem is innately unsolvable and
amorphous.

I'm going overnight paddling this weekend so when I come back I'll be the
kind of guy I'd like to be around.  Grump.  Grump.  Grump.

-- 
Dave Kruger
Astoria, OR
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