back40 wrote:

On Wed, 18 Feb 2004 22:09:08 GMT, Matt Langenfeld
wrote:


Here's a neat idea...I think.
http://www.geocities.com/bobsbooks_2000/yakfloats/


Looks like same idea, but a lot less flotation.

While I applaud the less expensive alternative, I have to wonder if they
really do much. As was mentioned, you could make your own for much less.

Best to use them after you get to where you're going. I wouldn't paddle
any distance with them on.

No, I meant as an aid to getting back in the Kayak after a dunk. It
seemed so....logical.

Only if you believe the twisted logic of Timmah (vague South Park
reference). He's single-handedly re-written the laws of physics and
hydrodynamics. I guess he must be a genius. ;-)

If you want sponsoons as a permanent fix, then you should consider
switching to a different style canoe/kayak or consider limiting the
rough water you paddle on.

I usually paddle alone. Given my weight,I don't think I could get back
in if the water was much more than waist deep. The sponson idea
_looked_ like it might be a big help in re-entry, but I thought I'd
see what the concensus was.

You need to work on paddling and self-rescue techniques. The order of
preference is:

1) Brace to avoid a capsize. Low brace, high brace, sculling brace,
whatever is necessary.

2) Roll back up if you do capsize. Rolling should be treated as a basic
skill and learned early on. When you learned to walk, you learned to get
up after a fall. When you learn to paddle, you should learn to roll back
up after a capsize.

3) Wet exit only as a last resort. Despite the fact that this is often
taught as a basic skill (not that there's much "skill" involved), it
should not be considered as the primary or preferred method of dealing
with a capsize, as it places you in danger of hypothermia and creates
the possibility of losing your boat and/or paddle. Re-entering a boat is
always more strenuous than staying in it.

4) Re-enter and roll to get back up. This is faster and easier than a
paddle float rescue.

5) Paddle float rescue or similar.

One thing that you should consider VERY strongly is that you should NOT
be paddling alone if you do not have well developed self-rescue skills.
It's imperative that you learn the skills before you need them. After a
capsize is no time to decide you need to learn to do a paddle float
rescue. Technique is everything, especially if you have a weight problem
or other physical limitations. You should also become proficient in
assisted rescues, both for yourself and your paddling partners, and for
any other kayaker who may need your assistance.

What are the water temps in your area? Do you have adequate immersion
clothing? Self-rescue techniques (equipment or skill based) will do you
no good if you're hypothermic.

I would suggest that you pick up a copy of Sea Kayaker's "Deep Trouble"
and one of the books on sea kayak rescue techniques. I suspect that you
may not be fully aware of the potential dangers that face the unprepared
paddler. Sea kayaking is very safe if you're prepared, but the ocean is
an unforgiving teacher.