I'm also paddling an Ellesmere with an ocean cockpit, and I'm 5'11", 180lbs. Took a few days to get used to, but now I slip in and out from the dock, beach and open water without giving the cockpit size a second thought. Also, I think the mini-skirt is quite fashionable ;) ~Eric~ From: Michael Daly > From: <jfarrelly5_at_comcast.net> > I am considering buying a used Valley Pintail with an ocean cockpit. > I have never used an ocean cockpit. I am 5' 11" 160 lbs. About 180cm and about 72 kgs. > Opinions as to how comfortable that type of cockpit is and how easy it is to get into/out of? I have an ocean cockpit on my Ellesmere. I would not recommend it for the average paddler. It is well suited to those that feel they need it (ie. don't trust a keyhole with a skirt that has an implosion bar). I got one because I wanted to be comfortable with using one when I make my SOF kayak (someday...) or if I find myself in a situation of renting or borrowing one in an exotic place and a keyhole isn't available. It is a challenge getting used to getting in or out. I have got to the point where I can balance while sitting on the back deck and keeping my paddle (Greenland style) behind the cockpit with one end submerged in the water. By submerging one end of the paddle, I can dampen the rolling to the point that I can recover from minor imbalances and still get in. I haven't tried this in a surf launch yet! (surf? - in the Great Lakes?) As far as comfort goes, I find it more comfortable than other kayaks - but that is partly due to the seat. The lack of thigh hooks means I can move my legs around more and still brace under the deck. Overall I like it, but getting in/out is a pain at times. *************************************************************************** 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/ ***************************************************************************
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