In a message dated 3/29/2005 6:01:16 PM Pacific Standard Time, dalloyd_at_telus.net writes: Some coaming lips seem more accommodating than others. I prefer a tow belt that's integral with the PFD, which distributes the load on your torso. The coaming mounted tow just looks like a bad idea. I suppose if its the only thing around, fine. But it's not. Why does the original post-er want to not tow from the waist? Waist mounted PFD systems are probably the simplest in all aspects of use. If that is still so, he/she may buy a jam cleat and a fairlead for about 25-30 bucks at West Marine. After a 10 minute installation of those, a simple throw bag works well as a tow system. Buy one that is easy to restuff. Replace those crummy aluminum carabiners with a proper stainless steel one. Daisy chain the line to about 20 feet and it'll be useful for a great deal of applications. Most boat mounted tow systems cannot be handed off to others. I like towing from my boat, it is the most comfortable to me. Waist mounted tow systems can be handed off to others and there are quite a few out that are of excellent quality. I use one with a short line that quickly accepts a longer line when I won't be in my regular boat. The downside is that I have to think about where I'm going and what I'm doing and make sure I bring the proper line. The great thing about PFD mounted systems is they are there, all the time, providing the owner keeps it in its intended condition. After that I fall out of the fan club. I don't like raising my center of gravity any more than it is by towing from a higher position. After an emergency release I don't like running the straps back through the tiny slots in my Lotus Straightjacket PFD. It is equipped with a 2" diameter ring that has to be just so, also. If you add a bit of bounce to the sea I start running out of talent trying to reset the thing. Rob G *************************************************************************** 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 Thu Mar 31 2005 - 08:20:29 PST
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