Re: [Paddlewise] Unfeathered Paddle Preference

From: Kirk Olsen <kolsen_at_imagelan.com>
Date: Fri, 2 Apr 1999 11:30:25 -0500 (EST)
On Fri, 2 Apr 1999 Strosaker_at_aol.com wrote:

> I think it is 
> shame that unfeathered paddling is frowned upon and that so much emphasis is 
> put on feathered paddling.  I'd like to see instructors and authors let the 
> paddlers decide for themselves.  Since unfeathered paddling is easier to 
> learn, it should also probably be the type of paddling taught first.
> 
> What do you think about the advantages and disadvantages of feathered and 
> unfeathered paddles?

When I take someone new out paddling I usually take a few very different 
paddles.  A greenland, a lightning ultralight (with 60 degree feather),
a bow (http://people.ne.mediaone.net/jkolsen/html/paddle.html) and a werner
comano take apart.  

I usually start them with the Werner unfeathered.  After we get the 
basic stroke mechanics down I feather the blade and have them try that.
If they prefer unfeathered I have them try out the greenland.  If they like
feathered I have them try the lightning.  I also have them try the bow.
The bow is usually popular with people who've had wrist or elbow problems.

To me paddle preferance is determined by the weather, the company, how
far we are going and how much of a hurry I'm in.  Why limit yourself to
just one paddle style?

kirk
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Received on Fri Apr 02 1999 - 08:24:55 PST

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