Although I manufacture an inflatable paddlefloat I would recommend using a flat foam block or board on the paddle blade when trying to learn to Eskimo roll. It skims better over the surface than a rounded inflatable so makes for much more realistic practice when learning to sweep the paddle around quickly. The inflatable float won't plane easily so bogs down on the sweep (even with only the top side inflated--which is better if you must use one--and have a double chambered float). A float roll (no paddle or exiting kayak) using a paddle float, a foam board, or a Back-up is much easier to learn than the Eskimo roll. I never had anyone I showed how (dozens and dozens of new paddlers if not over a 100) ever take more than two tries to succeed with it. As far as solo rescues go, in general, Eskimo rolling is by far the best, a Back-Up or other float that is ready to use--so you don't have to pop the spray deck--is next best, followed by a fixed outrigger rescue using a paddle float, and then a reenter and roll with or without a paddlefloat (the reenter and roll lacks as much stability for pumping, requires putting the head back underwater, as well as being harder to learn initially), next (or a tie) an unfixed paddlefloat rescue. Yes, there are exceptions to this order (and we've been around this block before). The Back-Up's main advantage over other floats is its compact size before use. Dan Hagen said all that I would have said about the Back-Up (and more) and in exquisite detail as well. Thanks Dan. There is a device called a Roll-Aid (I believe) advertised in European kayaking publications (that from the ad looks to have solid handles on it), anyone have experience with it? Matt Broze http://www.marinerkayaks.com *************************************************************************** PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List - Any opinions or suggestions expressed here are solely those of the writer(s). You must assume the entire responsibility for reliance upon them. All postings copyright the author. Submissions: PaddleWise_at_PaddleWise.net Subscriptions: PaddleWise-request_at_PaddleWise.net Website: http://www.paddlewise.net/ ***************************************************************************Received on Wed Feb 14 2001 - 23:43:19 PST
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