[Paddlewise] paddle leashes

<I can't see the logic of strapping a paddle leash to your wrist>

To respond to the above I would say there are several rational arguments 
(noting that nothing is fool proof or necessarily unquestionably better)

1. Whether a paddle leash is tethered to the boat or wrist --after capsize 
the first task is to get ahold of the boat.  I don't think either tethering 
location has more or less of an advantage here.  In either case if you have 
the boat-- you have your paddle.

2. If you do loose your boat (bad ,bad) then having your paddle (strapped 
to your wrist) might allow you to paddle-swim to catch your boat if it is only 
a short distance away.  With a PFD on paddle swimming is a good way to 
go for short distances. Or the paddle can be easily discarded if need be.

3. Doing a wet re-entry/rescue I like not having the paddle tied to the boat- 
it seems to give me more manuvering room to get the paddle float on and 
into position for climbing back into the boat.  And I cannot imagine any but 
the wildest scenario where a wrist telthered paddle could entangle the 
kayaker?

4. When rolling I guess I did not like all the lines (paddle tethered to the 
bungies) dangling around  when trying to set up for the roll- I find a paddle 
tethered to my wrist much less cumbersome in this situation and if it 
becomes a problem the tether is very easily slipped off the wrist.

5. If you do become separated from your boat you still have your paddle 
and it may be of some help to others in locating you (i.e. waving it) as you 
are more visible with your paddle in the air. 

6. Last and least important I did not like the wear and tear on the bungies 
from a leash tethered to the bungies.

As I paddle alone 98% of the time a paddle leash is just one more little bit 
of insurance besides it keeps my paddle from escaping during 
coffee/photgraphy breaks.  It certainly would not be a good thing in white 
water nor surf.  
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