RE: [Paddlewise] Tow Rigs

> [Original Message]
> From: Peter Rattenbury 
> 	My concern with the PFD, or waist mounted systems is this: we are
adapting a
> WHITE-WATER technique and system across to the SEA. [ well, many of us
paddle
> in the sea ]. And at sea, you may find yourself towing someone for HOURS
at a
> time.  This raises issues of efficiency  paddling over long stretches in
what
> is probably rough water when all the dynamics of the tow [ the 'snap and
> twang' of the tow]  is transferred on to your body.
>
	Haven't done any longterm towing but you're right -- this originated as a
WW technique.
Years ago there was a kit available which riveted to your deck just ahead
of the coaming.  The river was plastic and would break out if excessive
force were applied -- for safety's sake so you wouldn't get entrapped. 
There was a locking carabiner and enough rope so that your kayak could turn
under it  so you could get to the proper side of the towed boat.  Once you
did so, the rope would follow around your coaming and the towed boat would
snug up against your boat somewhere behind you.
	Mostly, in WW you're towing the boat to shore or other safe place and you
are not necessarily towing so much as ferrying.  A loosely towed boat is a
liability and difficult to control but if it's snugged against yours, then
you are in effect ferrying a looong kayak, which is often the easier
maneuver.  

Joe P.
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