[Paddlewise] Flippers

Peter O said:
<<<
Flippers! One of the most experienced sea kayakers I know considers them
an important safety backup. I don't carry them and would need to learn
how to use them. Wonder how many sea kayakers carry them and have had to
use them in an emergency?
>>>

I was in the scuba shop this past week looking for a pair. I was
discouraged by the price, as they are not a high priority right now. Now
that I have a dive-quality dry suit, I figured a pair would extend my
back-up options as well as be useful for snorkel activities on a trip
and possible food gathering. I'm just waiting for a good sale. I'll be
buying a pair that fit onto the end of a pair of booties, as opposed to
a pair that fit like socks. I've had to swim a few times, sometimes with
boat in tow, and sometimes not -- when conditions were too hairy or
other factors prevented immediate re-entry or indeed loss of boat.
Anything to extend the range and efficiency getting back to shore or
whatever is invaluable (as is avoiding those situations in the first
place, of course).

DL

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