Re: [Paddlewise] (un)Feathered paddles in surf

   
   I originally replied to the post by Tom, I think it was, that he was wrong 
when he stated that "I think an unfeathered paddle has an advantage in the 
surf." He is wrong and so is anybody else who claims that a non-featherd 
paddle is advantageous in the surf. That is not to say that a traditional 
paddle will not work. I think the differences are subtle and are probably 
offset by one's familiarity with one particular paddle type.
   I use a feathered paddle for surfing whitewater kayaks, surf kayaks and 
wave skis. I use a traditional sport paddle for touring. I don't know why 
exactly, it just turned out that way. When I am taking my sea kayak through 
the surf I will usually not bother to take the time to feather my paddle. 
It's just not all that important. If you like feathered paddles, then use 
one! If you like Inuit style paddles, then use one of those! If you prefer 
traditional sport paddles -- hey, go for it. However, speaking from a strict 
mechanical point of view I still believe that feathered paddles are better in 
the surf.
   This whole debate of feathered verses traditional is really pretty silly. 
I use what I use because that's what I've got, and I like it. Unless we are 
into serious competitive paddling and are intent on squeezing an extra tenth 
of a second off our time then what does it matter. I doubt any of us choose a 
boat or paddle based strictly on efficiency. We do this because it's fun. End 
of story.

Scott
So.Cal.
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