Re: [Paddlewise] Question regarding WW kayaks for bigger people??

Saul Kinderis wrote:
> 
> I recently bought a nice used Perception Pirouette S from another
> paddlewiser. The boat is fun to play in, but I seem to have a bit of a
> problem with fit. I have moved the foot braces all the way forward and
> trimmed down the foam on the backrest, so I fit OK.
> 
> The problem is that their isn't enough clearance between the top and the
> bottom of the boat to allow my feet to fit very well (I gave up on the idea
> of shoes fitting at all). Even in bare feet I have to leave my feet jammed
> in at a weird angle and it isn't very comfortable.
> 
> I'm not all that big at 6'2", 200lbs, size 11 feet, but my inseam is 38"
> which means it's about 47-48" from the back of my butt to my heel.
> 
> Does anyone have suggestions other than trimming my feet to size 8?
> 
> Is it feasible to put in a taller center "post" on this type of boat?
> 
> Are there other WW boats more suited to larger paddlers?
> 
> Thanks in advance - Saul
> 
> Saul Kinderis
> saul_at_isomedia,com
> My new web page is at:  http://www.isomedia.com/homes/saul
> (425)402-3426
> POB 2221, Bothell, WA, 98041
> 
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My son just bought a Dagger RPM which is somewhat similar in size to the
"S".  He is your height but lighter w/size 12 feet and wanted a
performance boat rather than a full size piroutte, Outburst, etc.  He
removed the bulkhead completely and inserted high density foam which he
bought from Dagger and custom carved to fill the bow ahead of his feet. 
He reinstalled the center post after carving a hole where his heels
touched.  It is much more comfotable and I think has similar rigidity
and at least comparable flotation to the original setup.  The "S" will
be more like a playboat with your weight- good if you are looking to do
enders off eddy lines bad for a downriver boat.  The whole re-outfitting
process only took a couple of hours and made a big difference in the
comfort of the boat.  
Good luck-

Walt
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