Re: [Paddlewise] No Subject - Rolling Practice

I think it makes sense to work with a boat you can roll in order to improve your
technique and gain confidence in your ability.  Some boats are just plain easier
to roll than others.  I found this out last year.  I had been paddling a Skerry
XL and the only way I could roll it was to use a paletta (extended paddle) roll.
The Skerry XL is desired for big folks and is designed to be stable.  I got into
a romany one day at the pool and was amazed at the ease with which I could roll
- and on both sides with using an extended paddle.  I spent a considable amount
of last years rolling in white water kayaks and romany's.  I had developed a
good deal of confidence and felt that if all else failed I could get up using an
extended paddle roll (my insurance).  I went out one day in the XL and tried to
roll - got partway up and went back in - came up with extended roll.  Did
another extended roll.  Lots of work.  Traded in the XL the following week for a
Romany.

My recollection of the Gulstream is that it is similar to Skerry XL in terms of
design for balance (I almost bought one as my first boat).  You may find that in
order to roll it, you need your technique to be dead on correct with a strong
hip snap.

sid


                                                                 
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