RE: [Paddlewise] Visibility for Carbon Paddles

From: Seng, Dave <Dave_Seng_at_health.state.ak.us>
Date: Mon, 21 Aug 2000 15:20:07 -0800
> From: Carl [mailto:nhdude001_at_yahoo.com]
> 
> Just got a new carbon paddle and I love it!  However,
> my girlfriend also has one and, while paddling
> yesterday, I noticed that I could barely pick her out
> on the water at a quarter mile away.  Has anyone come
> up with a way to treat the black blades to improve
> visibility?  Tape? Paint? What colors?  Your
> experiences would be most welcome!

  Reflective tape works OK as long as there's something to reflect.  I like
nice bright yellow or orange blades - it really seems to make a difference
in visibility.  I actually managed to order my Lightning Ultralight with
bright yellow pigment added to the resin(thanks Hank!!), but I think that
you could do a good aftermarket modification with paint.  I'd use something
like a "ScotchBrite" pad or some fine steel wool to rough up the surface
prior to painting.  Make sure to clean the surface well to remove all
particulate matter before painting (might try a tack cloth).  

  I usually notice the motion of paddle blades long before I can see either
the body of the kayaker or their boat.

Dave Seng
Juneau, Alaska
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Received on Mon Aug 21 2000 - 16:26:16 PDT

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