Re: [Paddlewise] suggestion for a first boat?

I've fielded this question from time to time, and pretty much resort
to borrowing/renting until the person has developed enough experience
to have their own opinion.

As we know, all boats are a trade-off, which means the paddler will
have to put up with some unpleasant (?) characteristics in exchange
for others deemed more valuable. What are they willing to put up with,
and in exchange for what? I fear projecting my values on the other
person may not be a wise long term strategy. "That darn Carey made me
buy this stupid boat!"

So, my approach has been to find the least expensive, most convenient
rental location - a place where we can paddle away from - and just let
them paddle around acting as lifeguard and maybe tossing in a little
forward stroke advice. But not so much as they are thinking too hard
and not enjoying being on the water.

Whenever I can I will glide past with apparent ease, and spin the boat
around to chat with them etc. demonstrating without saying anything
that paddling can be a lot more fun than they are having in that rec
boat with a heavy paddle.

As they ask questions I point out the reasons for my gear choices.
Then the next paddle is from a quality outfitter with new, high class
gear. After this outing they are ready to start thinking about what
they want the kayak for, and why this or that matters.

This approach may not be as useful when parents ask about a boat for
their kids, but in that case positive flotation and other safety
features come top of the list. Maybe a boat that is hard to paddle far
from home is the right choice. Again, not my call, I can only answer
specific small questions, not the big one "Which boat should I get?"

Paddle safe,

Carey

On Fri, Dec 2, 2011 at 12:26 PM, Jackie Myers <jackie_at_muddypuppies.com> wrote:
>
> I completely agree with Craig.   Besides, folks can filter the subject
> if they are "bored" with all that "chatter" :)
>
> A sit-on-top was my first boat and I have fond memories of that kayak
> (though I understand Kirk's shudder at a 31" beam).
>
> Kirk, how old is/are the kid/kids?
>
> Jackie
>
> >
> >
> >>so if you wish to contact me off the paddlewise list.... we won't bore
> >>everybody else with our "chatter"
> >>
> >>
> >>
> <>
> Most of us face questions of this sort and, since the list is comatose for
> long periods of time now, I think it would be nice to see the exchanges.
> This way the rest of us will benefit from your experiences. So I encourage
> you to keep the discussion on the list, please. :)
>
> Craig




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