Re: [Paddlewise] Instability with a flooded cockpit (and more added)

Hi Robert, I am using an Eddyline Backfloat, which has the velcro, but also
has a strap with a Fastex buckle.  I have learned to use the strap and
buckle to secure the float to the paddleshaft, never relying on the velcro
alone.  To use the strap, just fold the float over the end of the blade,
then wrap each end of the strap quickly around the paddleshaft, going in
opposite directions with the two ends.  Then snap the two halves of the
buckle together.  If necessary one half of the buckle cinches up tight
quickly and easily.
	My Backfloat is not new, so maybe the newer ones don't have the buckle and
strap.  I think I'll get one of the Mariner paddlefloats and always have a
backup.

	Also, one paddler I saw had modified the deck of his sprayskirt by cutting
a hole sized for insertion of the lower part of a hand pump.  He then
attached a flap which would velcro in place when used to cover the hole.  I
don't know if he still got some leakage into the hole though.  

	John



Date: Wed, 26 Jan 2000 14:08:53 -0600
Robert wrote:

"Matt:
I've also had the unfortunate experience of loosening the spay skirt to
hand-pump, and ended up worse than when I started because being unable to
avoid the breaking waves.
Do you tether your paddlefloat to the paddle or to the boat?
I rationalize that the best tether scenario would be to tether the float to
the paddle, and the paddle to you.  Keep the tethers to a minimum and the
length of the thether to a minimum.

 I am presently using Eddyline paddlefloats.  They use a velcro strip that
secures the paddle float to the paddle shaft near the blade.  The velcro has
often come loose during self-rescue practice.  There needs to be a better
way.  
Thanks again.
Robert"


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