RE: [Paddlewise] Paddle Tethers

From: Whyte, David <david.whyte_at_amsa.gov.au>
Date: Wed, 28 Mar 2001 09:52:17 +1000
-----Original Message-----
From: skylakeboatworks_at_yahoo.com [mailto:skylakeboatworks_at_yahoo.com]
I have no idea what kind of can of worms I am opening with this one....
I
have never used one or met anyone who did, yet.
Paddle tethers....
Are they good or bad?
Do you consider them essential?
Do they attach the paddle to you or the boat?
How long is the tether?
Just straight rope, or some kind of springy/contracting line?
 Marvin>>>


I use a tether on my paddle all the time when paddling on the open sea
and consider it essential safety equipment, especially in strong wind. I
tend not to use one on lakes and rivers unless its really windy. Mine
attaches the paddle to the kayak.

I also use them in the surf but it depends. If I am just having fun
riding the waves and each ride finishes on the beach or very near it I
tend not to use the paddle tether, mainly incase the kayak ends up on
the paddle if we get separated but that is fairly rare as I have a
reliable surf roll. If I am riding waves a fair way off shore (ie a
River Bar) where it would be a long swim if I get separated from my boat
then I always have my paddle tethered to the kayak.

I use an ex surf ski springy cord which is a bit annoying as it tends to
bang (As Peter pointed out) on the spray skirt as I paddle. I keep
meaning to replace it but have been saying that for about 10 years.

David
Australia
 
 
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Received on Tue Mar 27 2001 - 15:53:01 PST

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