RE: [Paddlewise] Storm Wing?

 
Jerry,

I can't call myself a storm paddler --- though I have hopes of becoming one
some day.  I do use a wing paddle, however, for most of my sea kayak
paddling.  

I love the powerful efficient stroke you get from a wing paddle.  It takes
some getting used to, but low braces, sweep strokes, rudder strokes and a
really potent screw roll can all be done with a wing (in fact, I've heard
the wing refered to as a "rolling cheater stick" since once you get set up
correctly, its much easier to roll with a wing than with a boring
traditional paddle).

For surfing and serious rough water, though, I would not use a wing.  I like
having the option of high braces and skulling strokes --- two types of
strokes you just can't properly do with a wing.  Also, if you need to dodge
something quick, you want to be able to do a dufek (another non-wing
stroke).  Finally, when you mis-stroke with a wing, the paddle either rips
out of your hand or flips you.  Not a pleasant prospect in storm conditions.

So in the humble opinion of this heavy wing user who is actively trying to
become a storm paddler, i would not use a wing for storm paddling.  

I would love to hear from any fellow paddlewisers who think otherwise.

--Tim



-----Original Message-----
From: Gerald Foodman
To: inetex
Cc: paddlewise
Sent: 4/14/99 4:41 PM
Subject: [Paddlewise] Storm Wing?

Doug,
I greatly enjoy reading about your storm adventures even though I am not
remotely tempted to follow you out into those conditions.  But I do
learn
from your experiences.  Here is the first of several questions I have.

Does any storm paddler use a wing paddle?  Would it be a dumb idea?

Jerry

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