Re: [Paddlewise] a breezy paddle.

On Sat, 22 Nov 2008 10:34:08 -0800, "Craig Jungers"
<crjungers_at_gmail.com> said:
>  I'm clearly going to have to figure a way to
> get on a surf-ski. I'm afraid I know what will happen if I do, though. I
> mean besides falling off. Do you use a wing paddle?

I do use a wing paddle.  I currently use an epic mid, it's an adjustable
length/feather paddle which is great for storage and regular conditions
but for more difficult days I need to either crank down on the
adjustment more or buy a fixed length paddle.

There is a learning curve.  Don't start with an advanced surf ski.  One
of the locals went from being an accomplished sea kayaker in a Valley
Rapier (he won the Blackburn challenge and was a regular storm paddler,
I expect he's also BCU 4 certified) to swimming with an Epic V10.  After
a couple of months he sold the Epic V10 and bought a Think Evo.  He
immediately went from uncomfortable and likely to swim to a little
twitchy but confident and comfortable.

There are 3 levels of surf ski.

The absolute beginner surf skis are something like the Futura II.  This
boat is more stable than many sea kayaks and can be skipped by most sea
kayakers.

The next level up is the intermediate surf skis.  These are the boats to
start with when moving to a surf ski.  Boats include the Fenn Mako XT,
Think Evo, Huki S1R, Honcho Gueverra, and Epic V10 sport.

The next tier up are the advanced surf skis.  Don't bother with these
until you are competent on an intermediate surf ski.  The Epic V10, Fenn
Mako (millenium, 6, or elite), Think Legend, Huki S1x, or Huki s1x
special are all advanced boats.

For open water swell riding the sub 35 pound boats work best as a quick
stroke or two get you onto the waves much easier.  Last week I found I
could climb over waves with an enthusiastic stroke or two even if the
wave was in front of my feet.

Finally look at the used market.  I've purchased 3 of my 4 surf skis
used.  If you see a surf ski paddler ask what the boat is and if you can
try it.  If it's one of the advanced boats it's unlikely you will enjoy
the trial.  

I've got an intermediate surf ski, if anyone in eastern
massachusetts/southern NH wants to try a surf ski - the offer holds for
next summer too....

Kirk


-- 
  Kirk Olsen
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