RE: [Paddlewise] Roll-aid

> -----Original Message-----
> 
> [mailto:owner-paddlewise_at_paddlewise.net] On Behalf Of 
> Rcgibbert_at_aol.com
> 
> So let me see if I understand this correctly:
> 
> A big wave blasts you over; The roll attempt fails and you 
> let your paddle 
> go, grab your Roll Aid, deploy it and come right side up. 
> Seeing that your 
> paddle is not near you, you are somehow able to comfortably 
> retrieve and assemble 
> the spare and paddle over to it in the same conditions that 
> blasted you over in 
> the first place. 
> 

Rob,

So let me see if I understand this correctly:

A big wave blasts you over; The roll attempt fails and you are now out
of air. So you wet exit into the cold water..........

The Roll Aid is NOT a substitute for a roll. It is an ADDITIONAL safety
layer, not your first choice. When you "let go of the paddle", you
should trap it between your arm and the boat. It is right next to you
between your arm and the boat as you come up.

You also don't try to stow the float after use. It has a tether that
clips onto a deck line in case you need it again in the conditions that
knocked you over. You can lean on it while getting your spare and it
will hold you up. It is not possible to fold and re-arm the device while
sitting on the water, that's why they suggest not deflating it. If you
clip it to a deck line, it is very little drag and you have it available
for re-use.

Like any self rescue skill though, it takes PRACTICE. If someone were to
purchase one, thinking it would replace learning to roll and all they
need to do is attach this to their deck and they will be safe,  they are
terribly mistaken. Even the manufacturer stresses that it is NOT a ROLL
REPLACEMENT. It is a last ditch effort prior to doing a wet exit. Once
you have learned to use it, you can also use it one handed - although
that does take a good hip flick to make it work.

Steve Holtzman
Southern CA
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