Re: [Paddlewise] closed cell foam

Rex Roberton wrote:
> 
> >Should?  My research dictates that there are MANY ways of
> >determining how tight hip pads are from both personal
> >preference and the type of paddling you do.
> >My personal preference is much as a whitewater boat is
> >outfitted.  If you picked me up in the kayak, the kayak
> >would come up with me.  Not even close to an inch of play,
> >even on hard land...
> 
> Gabriel, one inch of play, when using this test of putting the boat on it's
> side equals one half inch on each side when sitting up right.

That is what I figured.  On my boats, there is not any play,
in fact, I squeeze into the hip foam blocks.  They exert a
slight pressure all around.

  If you pick
> me up in any of my boats, whitewater or sea kayak the boat will come up also
> just as you have described.  This is because of the shape of the hip pads.
> They are "hooked" over my hips.  You can see a picture of one of my kayaks
> on Ken Rasmussen's web site at www.kayakfit.com.  Click on the "Photos" link
> on the left side of the home page.  On the Photos page my boat is the skin
> boat (second row down, second picture to the right).  You will see that the
> hip pads, at the height of the cockpit coaming are almost three inches
> thick.  That is the part that "hooks" over my hips.  The lower portion
> (which you can't see) is less than one half inch thick.  This is where you
> have the extra space that I'm talking about.

... and a very fine job by the looks of it.  It just isn't
how I like it.  I prefer a very sensitive lateral movement
which is better accomplished (I believe) by a snug fit all
around.  I do no take issue on your preference, mine is no
better, but I do take issue with using the word 'should'. 
Outfitting is a very personal thing and there are many
approaches to it for both personal comfort and desired
performance characteristics.  
Just to put another context to it, I really find back bands
to be uncomfortable and a nuisance and prefer a lower back
lumbar 'ramp'.  You find it a good solution for your cockpit
I assume, as you use one, and your craftsmanship reflects a
very considered attitude towards a proper outfitting. I
can't argue with your choice of back support.  It just isn't
for me. 
Those knee hooks would do me just fine though...

gabriel


-- 
 gabriel l romeu 
http://studiofurniture.com øø http://journalphoto.org øø
http://kayakoutfitting.org
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