Brian writes: "> But if these could not be used, either because of a snug neoprene > tube, and/or layers of dry top and PFD, grabbing a fold of the deck at the > side of the deck and pulling out works fine. Then why not use this method in the first place instead of one that's complicated and questionable? I agree that this works well and it's not hampered by other equipment, such as the paddler's clothing or PFD." Complete agreement here. It has been a worthwhile exercise for me to try various methods, and have them in the armoury if needed. If anyone has any other methods of escape without the grab loop, please post them. I'll happily give anything a try while the water is warm. Sid writes: "...sprayskirts that have a nylon tubes with a neoprene deck. This type may be the most versatile in terms of wet-exiting and also pumping-out the boat via the tube." I had such a skirt second but last. It let a lot of water in when rolling. But in warm climates, the extra ventilation could make that an acceptable trade-off. I'll repeat the Australian standard mantra here: pumping out the boat with a hand pump via the tube is a very poor alternative to having an effective hands-free foot or electric pump. "What do I recommend? First of all - not giving bad advice." Well, let's all keep an open mind as to what works and what doesn't, and be prepared to try alternatives in real paddling conditions, so as to be able to decide what is good advice and what isn't. "Fourth, put a zipper on your tube..." Sid, have you used such a spray deck, and wet exited using the zipper? Does this work OK? If the zipper is covered by layers of clothing, we are back to grabbing a fold at the side of the deck, if the grab loop isn't available. If the zipper is accessible, still might be a problem. Never had difficulty undoing a zipper? My teenage years were full of zipper frustrations, but I'll spare you the details. Good Paddling PT 37°42'S 145°08'E *************************************************************************** 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 Sat Mar 10 2001 - 17:19:05 PST
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