----- Original Message ----- From: "Gordon Snapp" <grsnapp_at_charter.net> > I've contemplated a double, but I was thinking of using it with one of my > kids, not my wife. I don't know if that adds anything to the discussion, but > I thought I'd mention it. My kids can't divorce me, can they? Some interesting things of paddling doubles on Paddlewise while I was away for the day. I devoted an entire chapter of my Complete Folding Kayaker book to the issues and practices of paddling a double kayak in both the original 1994 version and in the 2nd Edition that came out this Spring. I believe it is the most thorough coverage of the subject in any sea kayaking book. Most never even cover double boats at all where as I go into how they paddle differently and the difference techniques for rescues etc. involved in being in one. The book is in so many libraries that you don't even have to enrich my pockets to take a look at the chapter (I get about a buck a book royalty...so I ain't going to get very rich :-)). The reason I devoted a chapter to the subject is that traditionally the folding kayak world has or had been dominated by them. I think more and more the folding singles are dominating the new market. Some things to think about: --Paul Theroux, who wrote the Foreword, to my book once said "Those who paddle a double kayak should be nominated for sainthood." It ain't that bad but it does depend on one's personality. My wife and I hardly paddle our double anymore because we have lots of fun with singles but when we do it is a wonderful way to bond again and see the world as a couple, which is something that is so easy to lose sight of in this busy world couples lead apart from each other. --As for having a double to paddle with a kid, by all means, do so. It is a terrific way to bond with a child of any age. I have seen guys and their kids take great enjoyment of each other as the paddle together from the time the child is old enough to be trusted not to jump overboard and drag a fishing net. When my son came back from Desert Storm, we had a great time in a double paddling out of West Point in one of the lovliest piece of water around, the Hudson Highlands, and with, of course, the added value of being in such a hallowed place as that historical site. Doubles are so inexpensive in plastic form ($1,000 or so) and in some of the foldables such as from Folbot or Foldingcraft, that these are also affordable. If you are currently in singles and have someone particularly important in your life who is a fellow paddler, get one of these. You may not want to do your entire time on the water in a double but you will likely find it a reward experience even if done just a few times a year. It is a priceless experience that is not priceless to purchase. ralph diaz-- ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Ralph Diaz . . . Folding Kayaker newsletter PO Box 0754, New York, NY 10024 Tel: 212-724-5069; E-mail: rdiaz_at_ix.netcom.com "Where's your sea kayak?"----"It's in the bag." ----------------------------------------------------------------------- *************************************************************************** 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/ ***************************************************************************Received on Fri Jun 13 2003 - 07:03:02 PDT
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