Ladies Kit reccomendations
 

I'm going off to buy most of my kit next week (at Eddy Lines if you live in
the Welsh sticks like me!) and was after some recommendations. Basically I
need:

A cag (I'm thinking semi dry, I don't like being wet, and I fall in alot!)

A buoyancy aid (How much buoyancy should I get? Should I go for one with a
harness? Is it a case of the more you spend, the more change it will have
of saving your life?)

A paddle (I've been borrowing the clubs basic ones. What feather should I
get if I want to do basic whitewater and basic surf? Also, does my height
affect the length of the shaft? I'm 5ft tall!)

A deck (First neoprene! I've seen one with a yellow knee strap, is this a
good idea? Or should I go for the pyrahna one to match my boat? If I've
got an I:3 221 so I need a keyhole deck?)

A helmet (I like the Yak one, this is what loads of the guys I paddle with
use, and it fits me well. Anyone know a site with the price better than
£35?)

I think that's it! Yell if I've left anything out. I'm looking for general
advise about purchasing, but also if there are any ladies out there with kit
that they think works really well for them, could they post too?
Pleeeeeeeeease? I find some of the men's kit really uncomfortable,
especially the buoyancy aids!

Charlie.

--
Kallistos: Contemporary Jewellery Design
http://www.kallistos.co.uk
eBay: http://kallistos.notlong.com

Charlie wrote:

Caveats first, I'm mainly a tourer rather than WW, though I do do some
WW and surf. And I'm not an Expert, so bear that in mind and don't take
it as anything like Final Word.

A cag (I'm thinking semi dry, I don't like being wet, and I fall in alot!)

Things I look for in a cag... primarily, does the cut allow me full arm
movement with relative comfort? Sit in a boat with it on and have a
good stretch with a paddle in your hands. I don't see any reason not to
get a twin waisted one as they keep out the water better. I prefer less
elaborate cuff and neck seals for touring, but in whitewater I'm very
happy to borrow a pal's with dry seals, as WW is not about comfort to
anything like the same extent as sea touring!

A buoyancy aid (How much buoyancy should I get? Should I go for one with a
harness? Is it a case of the more you spend, the more change it will have
of saving your life?)

Not really to any significant degree, I'd think: anything you get is
likely to keep you afloat, the differences in price are more about extra
whistles and bells. I really value pockets, but OTOH I'm a tourer who
only does the occasional WW trip. You can do without a harness unless
you're likely to be towing people out of stuff: not too likely if you're
just getting started, and BAs don't last forever so you can worry about
a harness when you need one. Most important thing is comfort: like the
cag, try stuff on sat in a boat and see how free they leave you to move
as you want.

A paddle (I've been borrowing the clubs basic ones. What feather should I
get if I want to do basic whitewater and basic surf? Also, does my height
affect the length of the shaft? I'm 5ft tall!)

Major can of worms, and specific advice of exactly what to get is
probably unhelpful... As well as feather you've got blade shape and
materials of the blades and shaft.

Paddle length will relate to height indirectly, as it's more about
leverage, so where you hold the shaft and your paddling style. Lendal's
website has some guide figures, suggesting typical ranges for
disciplines. Surfing they have 185-195, rodeo 195-204 and river 200-208.

Stiffer shafts allow more efficient paddling, but are more fatiguing to
use over a day. Strength of the shaft can be increased by throwing
money at it, but even the basic glass shafts are pretty strong.

For surf an asymmetric blade may well get you accelerating better, which
is handy, but OTOH that's probably less useful than a fuller blade in WW
control strokes, so you choose, you lose...

Blade material is something where you throw money at it to get something
lighter and/or stronger. Stronger and lighter are both better, but
you're talking a lot of money for a full monty set of blades.

Feather is down to personal preference to quite a degree. Lighter
feathers mean a bit less work for your control wrist but a bit more air
resistance to pushing the blade ahead, and rolling on the non-control
side takes a bit or re-acquaintance. If you're happy with the paddles
you've borrowed, get something the same. If you find your control wrist
is suffering a bit, maybe try something a little lower, though if you
can borrow some alternatives and try them before you make up your mind
that might be a cunning plan.

Don't despair if that seems like a lot, as if you get a cheapish pair
they should still be fine for getting going and can be a spare in
future. If you've got a Lendal shaft you can get a Paddlok centre join
and just relegate them to use as emergency splits in the future, once
you've decided what you /really/ want. Another nice thing about the
Paddlok setup is you can easily change blades in future (I started off
with cheap(der) polypro blades and upgraded to carbon/nylon without
having to change the shaft, and bought an "empty" shaft to use the old
blades on as splits).

I think that's it! Yell if I've left anything out.

You may wish to add a throwbag and some sort of footwear. And a thermos
flask!

I'm looking for general advise about purchasing

Bottom line is Try It On.
Beware anyone saying you Must Get Brand X Model Z. It might suit /them/
perfectly, but that doesn't mean it will suit you. This is especially
true of fit to body. On a similar line, further note that although
women are different shapes from men, women are also different shapes to
other women: "Women's Design" is not /necessarily/ better for you than
"Unisex", though it may well be, which gets us back to Try It On, which
is where we came in.

Happy shopping!

Pete.
--
Peter Clinch Medical Physics IT Officer
Tel 44 1382 660111 ext. 33637 Univ. of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital
Fax 44 1382 640177 Dundee DD1 9SY Scotland UK
net http://www.dundee.ac.uk/~pjclinch/

You asked about a BA ( we call them PFD's) Your challenge is to get a
very comfortable one that gives you a full range of movement. They will
all get you up for a breath: IF THEY FIT!
Good strong shoulder straps are a must for possible rescues. In The
Hand of God rescue or simply a helping hand dragging you back into your
boat, your rescuer should be able to grasp good stout webbing on your
shoulders to do it. This saves misunderstandings.
A good BA or PFD is likely going to cost a bit. Mine is about $200.00
Canadian about 80 quid.
You won't need a tow harness.
I trust the boat has added boyancy ( air bags ) to displace water..
I am mostly a sea kayaker but like the last poster do a little WW.
That BA has to fit and be comfortable, That to me is one of the most
important things.
( of course I can't swim)....
Have fun. this is a great dsport.
When you get old we will steal you away to sea kayaking.

Thanks for the advice guys. so far I've only really done kayaking on the
Marina where I live, out on the sea from there and down in Gower (best surf
in the UK apparently!). I've had my boat since last summer (It's an I:3)
and bought it on a bit of a whim! I've got my first taste of proper white
water coming up soon at Llanysul and I can't wait! This is why I want the
kit. And yes, my boat has air bags, I wouldn't be allowed to paddle with
the club if it didn't, and I don't fancy the idea of emptying out a whole
boat when I go over!

Are the low cut PFD's generally better? They look like they should be, and
they're generally much more expensive. They look like the offer a really
good range of movement around the shoulder and core. It's one thing I don't
want to skimp on, I'd rather pay more money for something I may never need,
but could one day save my life if it's up to scratch. Of course, at the
back my my head, I realise that a company wouldn't sell a PFD labelled for
whitewater that wouldn't be able to pull you out of a tricky situation!

Anyway, I'm going to be heading off to the pool for a rolling clinic (still
can't get it!) so I'll love you and leave you!

Charlie.

wrote in message
oups.com...
You asked about a BA ( we call them PFD's) Your challenge is to get a
very comfortable one that gives you a full range of movement. They will
all get you up for a breath: IF THEY FIT!
Good strong shoulder straps are a must for possible rescues. In The
Hand of God rescue or simply a helping hand dragging you back into your
boat, your rescuer should be able to grasp good stout webbing on your
shoulders to do it. This saves misunderstandings.
A good BA or PFD is likely going to cost a bit. Mine is about $200.00
Canadian about 80 quid.
You won't need a tow harness.
I trust the boat has added boyancy ( air bags ) to displace water..
I am mostly a sea kayaker but like the last poster do a little WW.
That BA has to fit and be comfortable, That to me is one of the most
important things.
( of course I can't swim)....
Have fun. this is a great dsport.
When you get old we will steal you away to sea kayaking.

"Charlie" wrote in message
...
I'm going off to buy most of my kit next week (at Eddy Lines if you live
in
the Welsh sticks like me!) and was after some recommendations. Basically
I
need:


I can't tell you what kit YOU need, but basics for WW - if you are keen.

Sleeveless Long John Wetsuit £about £55 for a 3mm suit.
Wetsuit boots.
Dry Cag of some sort - that is rubber seals on neck and wrists, and a double
seal for the spraydeck. I use a reed Chill Cheater whict I think is ace, my
son hates his with a vengeance though - each to their own. Make sure you
have room to move in it.
BA - enough to carry your weight, pocket on the front for odds and sods - I
carry a mars bar - wrappers are waterproof! - A piece of fruit, and a small
garlic sausage - as I say, each to their own. It also has a clasp to attach
keys. Get one that is comfortable, don't worry too much about the harness
you'll only really need it if you are doing whitewater rescue - time enough
for that later. BTW - if you set it up too tight at the start of paddling,
by the time you have done 500 yards you will need to slacken it off as you
are starting to take deeper breaths. My wife has a BA that I can use and
vice versa - Unless you are a Jordan, I doubt that there is any real
difference between BA's BTW, she doesn't wear support when paddling, if you
know what I mean.
Paddles, get what you are comfortable with. It might be right, it might not.
Don't be persuaded by anyone who has just spent £150 on a paddle that theirs
would be the best for you. Very few people who spend money on kit will admit
it is crap, and anyway, what is good for them may not be good for you.
What else might you need... Dry bags - forget BDAs, they are too rigid, use
soft nylon drybags - we all have a medium for clothes and a small for
emergency kit.
A survival bag - one of those orange poly ones, don't open it, fold it flat
and duck tape it to the inside of your boat - it is for emergency use only.
If your club/ instructor want you to play silly sods on emergency exercises
get another one to play with. Keeping your original taped to your boat means
you will have it when you need it.
Helmet - one that fits and you are comfortable with - avoid peaks and face
guards - at this stage :-)
Throw bag - 15 metres.
Bouyancy bags for your boat.
Tow line - if you buy one get an elasticated one - it is far easier to tow
with than the non elasticated type - also, make sure there is a small metal
crab on the end rather than a plastic clip.
A sling and a crab for hauling your boat up and down embankments. We have a
2m sling and a self locking crab - if you can find a piece of cork thread
the sling theough the cork in case you drop it in the water.
Flask
Cold drinks flask
Bungee cord to provide strap in boat to hold your water bottle so that you
can always have a drink when you need one.
Spray deck that fits quite tightly, neoprene is best. - tip, you can run
silicone sealant under the lip of the cockpit to make a better seal - but it
does come undone - you can also seal all screwheads the same way.

Emergency kit - buy a spare bung for your boat and find some plastic sealant
of some sort to carry with you. Plus all the FA kit you will need - don't
forget you own personal medication - you might not be able to give someone
else codiene, but you can give it to yourself if you need it.

You might also add paddle mits - now, here is a bit of advice I give my
beginners - DO NOT WEAR GLOVES or MITS that enclose your hands. Buy neoprene
mits with open palms so that you can feel the paddle. - you can flip then on
and off your hands as required. Pogies are old hat... I hate them - okay, so
you should never let your paddle go, but if you are attched by way of
pogies... again, personal preferences.

I know you asked for a female perspective but there are five of us paddle
and the only kit that really varies between us is the boat, the rest is
interchangeable - except we tend to hang onto our own paddles.

Ewan Scott

Ewan Scott wrote:

Paddles, get what you are comfortable with. It might be right, it might=
not.
Don't be persuaded by anyone who has just spent =A3150 on a paddle that=
theirs
would be the best for you.=20

Unless they persuade you by lending it to you for a while and you can=20
compare to alternatives, that is! But even then, wait until you know=20
what you're really up to before letting yourself be persuaded by a=20
trial. Trying out for function is only really useful if you appreciate=20
what the function is meant to be like.
For starters a basic paddle should be fine and do all you need: worry=20
about your Dream Paddle later.

A survival bag - one of those orange poly ones, don't open it, fold it =
flat
and duck tape it to the inside of your boat - it is for emergency use o=
nly.

The Blizzard Packs available from=20
http://www.blizzardprotectionsystems.com/ are better, though they're =A32=
5=20
rather than =A32.50. It's about the same insulation value as a 2 season =

sleeping bag, is wind and waterproof and packs into a vacuum sealed pack =

about the size of a video cassette. We were just recommended them by=20
the club training officers, who used one "in anger" on a client on a ski =

tour recently. They were most impressed, and said you might as well=20
chuck your old orange ones away.

If your club/ instructor want you to play silly sods on emergency exerc=
ises
get another one to play with. Keeping your original taped to your boat =
means
you will have it when you need it.

The Blizzard Pack is about the size of video cassette in its vacuum=20
pack, but doesn't go back that small! The company offer a repacking=20
service, but you don't want to take them out unless you need them, and=20
at =A325 a throw I'd stick to a spare poly bag for any such silly soddism=
=20
as Ewan suggests.

A sling and a crab for hauling your boat up and down embankments. We ha=
ve a
2m sling and a self locking crab - if you can find a piece of cork thre=
ad
the sling theough the cork in case you drop it in the water.

This reminds me... some tape to make grab slings for the boy and stern=20
of the boat makes it easier to haul out of surf etc.

Pete.
--=20
Peter Clinch Medical Physics IT Officer
Tel 44 1382 660111 ext. 33637 Univ. of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital
Fax 44 1382 640177 Dundee DD1 9SY Scotland UK
net http://www.dundee.ac.uk/~pjclinch/

Charlie wrote:

Are the low cut PFD's generally better?

Hmmmmm... define "better"...

They look like they should be, and
they're generally much more expensive. They look like the offer a really
good range of movement around the shoulder and core. It's one thing I don't
want to skimp on, I'd rather pay more money for something I may never need,
but could one day save my life if it's up to scratch.

It's the floatation that will do the life saving, and if it didn't keep
you afloat they wouldn't be able to get them on the market legally.
Beyond that the movement potential is best assessed by trying it on
while sat in a boat and holding a paddle. Won't be the same in the shop
as on the water, but it's much better than looking at pictures and
assuming more money == better design. If it doesn't allow comfortable
paddling action it'll **** you off with every stroke, but if a cheaper
design isn't restrictive then don't worry about it /looking/ as if it
might be!

Of course, at the
back my my head, I realise that a company wouldn't sell a PFD labelled for
whitewater that wouldn't be able to pull you out of a tricky situation!

A BA won't really pull you out of a tricky situation: that generally
requires human intervention, whether you or someone else. It /will/
provide buoyancy which can be a big help, but if you get trapped
underwater you'll still drown and if you're swept out to see you'll
still get hypothermic. And an expensive BA won't really help you any
more than a cheap one in such a situation.

Anyway, I'm going to be heading off to the pool for a rolling clinic (still
can't get it!) so I'll love you and leave you!

It'll come. It takes some folk longer than others, but it'll come.

Pete.
--
Peter Clinch Medical Physics IT Officer
Tel 44 1382 660111 ext. 33637 Univ. of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital
Fax 44 1382 640177 Dundee DD1 9SY Scotland UK
net http://www.dundee.ac.uk/~pjclinch/

"Ewan Scott" writes:

are starting to take deeper breaths. My wife has a BA that I can use and
vice versa - Unless you are a Jordan, I doubt that there is any real
difference between BA's BTW, she doesn't wear support when paddling, if you
know what I mean.

I did buy a women specific BA last year, and I do prefer it over the
unisex one I hds before. The main thing I was looking for was a shorter
body with still enough flotation - compared to men of my weight I have a
shorter torso and longer legs. My old BA fit fine when I was standing up,
but sitting in a boat the spraydeck would push the BA towards my ears.

You may find a good fit in unisex/male BAs, but do try it on in your boat
if you can!

Roos

Roos Eisma wrote:

You may find a good fit in unisex/male BAs, but do try it on in your boat
if you can!

And though it's probably Non-Trivial to wander in to the shop with
/your/ boat, they might have something comparable hanging on the wall
that can stand in. If you're in a shop paying them money then get all
the service you can!

Pete.
--
Peter Clinch Medical Physics IT Officer
Tel 44 1382 660111 ext. 33637 Univ. of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital
Fax 44 1382 640177 Dundee DD1 9SY Scotland UK
net http://www.dundee.ac.uk/~pjclinch/

Some how it seamed much easier when I started. Of course now I have 5
boats, no idea how many BA's I have gone through and a ton of odds and
sods to help friends play with the sport.

My car is rubish but i have nice boats.
Alex

wrote in message
oups.com...
Some how it seamed much easier when I started. Of course now I have 5
boats, no idea how many BA's I have gone through and a ton of odds and
sods to help friends play with the sport.

Funny, when I started out the chap who got me interested had bins full of
kit, and now we find that our stock of used kit isd starting to grow.

My car is rubish but i have nice boats.

That's odd too. My car used to be nice and shiney. Now it's got scratches
from boats and paddles, dents from tie straps and on hot days it stinks of
river water desite the air conditioning and driving with windows open, and
industrial strength air freshners.

Ewan Scott

Same problem! With both the junior and mens ones I find that they sit off
the top of my shoulders even at their shortest settings (don't get me
started on Polo BA's...). That's why I'm wondering if some of the ones that
are compact at the front will be better because I may be able to shorten the
shoulder straps considerably. Ho hum, I'll have to go to the shop, get
dressed up and then sit in a boat and pretend to paddle!

Charlie.

"Roos Eisma" wrote in message
...
"Ewan Scott" writes:

are starting to take deeper breaths. My wife has a BA that I can use and
vice versa - Unless you are a Jordan, I doubt that there is any real
difference between BA's BTW, she doesn't wear support when paddling, if
you
know what I mean.

I did buy a women specific BA last year, and I do prefer it over the
unisex one I hds before. The main thing I was looking for was a shorter
body with still enough flotation - compared to men of my weight I have a
shorter torso and longer legs. My old BA fit fine when I was standing up,
but sitting in a boat the spraydeck would push the BA towards my ears.

You may find a good fit in unisex/male BAs, but do try it on in your boat
if you can!

Roos

"Ewan Scott" wrote in message
...
Sleeveless Long John Wetsuit £about £55 for a 3mm suit.

Already got, although I'm looking at buying a long sleeve wesuit top for
cold days and a set of short trousers for hot days!

Wetsuit boots.

I've got some, but these are on my list too. I have real problems finding
nice ones though. Tiny feet means I have to have junior ones, and junior
ones mean flouresant colours! (Not that I'm a slave to fashion, I just
like to match reasonably!)

Dry Cag of some sort - that is rubber seals on neck and wrists, and a
double
seal for the spraydeck. I use a reed Chill Cheater whict I think is ace,
my
son hates his with a vengeance though - each to their own. Make sure you
have room to move in it.

I've heard loads about the chill cheaters, but I can't find any shops round
here that sell them. The only other advise I've been told is NOT to go for
a Nookie. A girl I work with got one and it fell apart in a few months.

BA - enough to carry your weight, pocket on the front for odds and sods -
I

Is it just me that has noticed that the more pockets you get the more money
you pay? It's such a negligable amount of fabric used! (Like, why do you
pay more for thongs? Ok, mind wandering again.)

Paddles, get what you are comfortable with.

I've been using a 60 deg feather, which I'm not greatly happy with but it'll
do till I work out what I really really like. It can be a spare after that.
What is the shaft length relative to? I mean, is it something logical like
the taller you are the longer your paddle shaft length? Or it it just what
you prefer? I guess the guys at the shop can help me with that.

What else might you need... Dry bags - forget BDAs, they are too rigid,
use
soft nylon drybags - we all have a medium for clothes and a small for
emergency kit.

Good idea. I've seen some nice rucksack ones which is good because I cycle
everywhere. I genrally keep my wet kit stinking in a plastic tub once it's
been rinsed and dryed. Come to think of that, I dry my kit in a plant room
in a swimming pool usually, will the chemicals in the air degrade my kit?
Or is it so insignificant that it won't matter. Doesn't seem to bother my
swim suits.

A survival bag - one of those orange poly ones, don't open it, fold it
flat
and duck tape it to the inside of your boat - it is for emergency use
only.

Good idea, I never thought of that. The last time I saw one of those being
used was the men in the club (can I really call them men?) having sack races
in them. Nut cases.

Helmet - one that fits and you are comfortable with - avoid peaks and face
guards - at this stage :-)

Yup, got mine today. Nice Yak one, although I'm having trouble getting it
to fit properly (the back straps won't tighten properly). I think I need to
stick a little more neoprene padding in it.

Throw bag - 15 metres.

Would you reccomend this even for a newbie? I know how to use it (I work as
a lifeguard) but I'd be worried about carrying it for some strange reason!
Do you think that all adult kayakers should have one? Where abouts do you
carry yours BTW?

Bouyancy bags for your boat.

Already got, not allowed on the water with the club without them.

Tow line - if you buy one get an elasticated one - it is far easier to tow
with than the non elasticated type - also, make sure there is a small
metal
crab on the end rather than a plastic clip.

Again, a good idea for a newbie? I'd be really worried about getting one.

A sling and a crab for hauling your boat up and down embankments. We have
a
2m sling and a self locking crab - if you can find a piece of cork thread
the sling theough the cork in case you drop it in the water.

Where do I get these? Anything that makes my boat easier to carry is good!

Spray deck that fits quite tightly, neoprene is best. - tip, you can run
silicone sealant under the lip of the cockpit to make a better seal - but
it
does come undone - you can also seal all screwheads the same way.

Again, I'm having problems with this one. I can't seem to find a decent
neoprene deck with a small enough waist to fit properly.

Emergency kit - buy a spare bung for your boat and find some plastic
sealant
of some sort to carry with you. Plus all the FA kit you will need - don't
forget you own personal medication - you might not be able to give someone
else codiene, but you can give it to yourself if you need it.

Where the hell do you carry all this stuff? I'd be able to fit it behind my
seat, but how do I keep it there?

Cheers for the advise. Much appreciated.

Charlie.

"Charlie" writes:

"Ewan Scott" wrote in message
...
Sleeveless Long John Wetsuit £about £55 for a 3mm suit.

Already got, although I'm looking at buying a long sleeve wesuit top for
cold days and a set of short trousers for hot days!

Don't get a wetsuit top, it will inhibit your movement and quickly
get very uncomfortable, Immersion Research do some very nice thick
fleecy thermal tops that are great in cold weather.

Dry Cag of some sort - that is rubber seals on neck and wrists, and a
double
seal for the spraydeck. I use a reed Chill Cheater whict I think is ace,
my
son hates his with a vengeance though - each to their own. Make sure you
have room to move in it.

I've heard loads about the chill cheaters, but I can't find any shops round
here that sell them. The only other advise I've been told is NOT to go for
a Nookie. A girl I work with got one and it fell apart in a few months.

Palm kit is very good and well cut, and usually well made, it does seem that
Palm and Nookie seem to take turns at being the flaky manufacturer whose
kit falls apart. I have a couple of nookie cags that are about 8 years old
which are stll fine, apart from the fact that the waterproofing has gone
slightly. Peak UK are also worth a look as well, as are Immersion Research.

BA - enough to carry your weight, pocket on the front for odds and sods -
I

Is it just me that has noticed that the more pockets you get the more money
you pay? It's such a negligable amount of fabric used! (Like, why do you
pay more for thongs? Ok, mind wandering again.)

IME, with whitewater BAs anyway, the ones with the most pockets are the
serious whitewater BAs, with a full harness and stuff, that all adds to the
price. Freestyle type BAs, which are cut to allow maximum movement, tend
to be the most comfortable, even the unisex ones, the Palm fusion and Nookie
Playmonster BAs are especially good, IMO.

Paddles, get what you are comfortable with.

I've been using a 60 deg feather, which I'm not greatly happy with but it'll
do till I work out what I really really like. It can be a spare after that.
What is the shaft length relative to? I mean, is it something logical like
the taller you are the longer your paddle shaft length? Or it it just what
you prefer? I guess the guys at the shop can help me with that.

Regarding length and feather, get what you are comfortable with, personally
I think that the shorter the better, with a low angle of feather, but YMMV.
One thing to be aware of, especially if you have small hands, is that if the
paddle shaft is toowide in diameter it can be quite uncomfortable or even
painful after a while, most of the better makes, such as werner, Robson et al
offer a smaller diameter shaft on all their paddles.

Throw bag - 15 metres.

Would you reccomend this even for a newbie? I know how to use it (I work as
a lifeguard) but I'd be worried about carrying it for some strange reason!
Do you think that all adult kayakers should have one? Where abouts do you
carry yours BTW?

I personally think that all whitewater paddlers should own and know how
to use a throwline, I keep mine crabbed to my seat, behind me.

Talk to the more experienced paddlers in your club though, they will know
your abilities better than we do and can give good advice on this.

If you do get one, make sure you retie the loop of rope that goes through
the end of the bag (it makes a handle like thing) with something like a
bowline, and remove any loop at the other end of the rope.

Tow line - if you buy one get an elasticated one - it is far easier to tow
with than the non elasticated type - also, make sure there is a small
metal
crab on the end rather than a plastic clip.

Again, a good idea for a newbie? I'd be really worried about getting one.

Wouldn't bother personally, shoujldn't be towing on moving water anyway,
and on flat water a sling and crab do just as well, and are more generally
useful.

A sling and a crab for hauling your boat up and down embankments. We have
a
2m sling and a self locking crab - if you can find a piece of cork thread
the sling theough the cork in case you drop it in the water.

Where do I get these? Anything that makes my boat easier to carry is good!

The sling you should be able to get from any outdoors shop that sells
rock-climbing equipment, and you'll be able to get a karabiner in the same
place.

These are the most genuine useful bit of kit to have, you can use it as a
makeshift skeg to help a beginner keep in a straight line on fla****er, as
a towing aid (crab though the front grabloop, loop of sling over your
shoulder), to drag your boat around, or secure it to the bank if you are
inspecting a feature, and to provide a belay point in rescue and kit
recovery situations.

Spray deck that fits quite tightly, neoprene is best. - tip, you can run
silicone sealant under the lip of the cockpit to make a better seal - but
it
does come undone - you can also seal all screwheads the same way.

Again, I'm having problems with this one. I can't seem to find a decent
neoprene deck with a small enough waist to fit properly.

Nookie will do special order spraydecks, for little or no premium, IIRC,
so may playboater, both of whose spraydecks are very very good, even if
Nookie's cags are a bit leaky at the moment.

Emergency kit - buy a spare bung for your boat and find some plastic
sealant
of some sort to carry with you. Plus all the FA kit you will need - don't
forget you own personal medication - you might not be able to give someone
else codiene, but you can give it to yourself if you need it.

some gaffer tape is also always useful to have around.

Where the hell do you carry all this stuff? I'd be able to fit it behind my
seat, but how do I keep it there?

most of it can be kept in a drybag that can be crabbed to the seat, if there
are loops there, as in necky and some older dagger boats, or to the back of
the backband. if you deflate the airbag(s) slightlyand stuff the kit on top,
then reinflate them, is shouldn't move too much. throwlines can be stored in
the same way, but shouldn't be in a drybag, just crab them through the handles.
Keep the sling in the same place, or, if the BA pocket is big enough, in there.

--
James jamesk[at]homeric[dot]co[dot]uk

DISCLAIMER: Unix is a registered trademark of AT&T.

You could try canyon gear that make paddling gear to measure. Delia
prizes herself in making gear especially for women. Try www.canyongear
..co.uk or phone her on 01788810076

In message , Kegs
writes
"Charlie" writes:

"Ewan Scott" wrote in message
...
Sleeveless Long John Wetsuit £about £55 for a 3mm suit.

Already got, although I'm looking at buying a long sleeve wesuit top for
cold days and a set of short trousers for hot days!

Don't get a wetsuit top, it will inhibit your movement and quickly
get very uncomfortable, Immersion Research do some very nice thick
fleecy thermal tops that are great in cold weather.

Dry Cag of some sort - that is rubber seals on neck and wrists, and a
double
seal for the spraydeck. I use a reed Chill Cheater whict I think is ace,
my
son hates his with a vengeance though - each to their own. Make sure you
have room to move in it.

I've heard loads about the chill cheaters, but I can't find any shops round
here that sell them. The only other advise I've been told is NOT to go for
a Nookie. A girl I work with got one and it fell apart in a few months.

Palm kit is very good and well cut, and usually well made, it does seem that
Palm and Nookie seem to take turns at being the flaky manufacturer whose
kit falls apart. I have a couple of nookie cags that are about 8 years old
which are stll fine, apart from the fact that the waterproofing has gone
slightly. Peak UK are also worth a look as well, as are Immersion Research.

BA - enough to carry your weight, pocket on the front for odds and sods -
I

Is it just me that has noticed that the more pockets you get the more money
you pay? It's such a negligable amount of fabric used! (Like, why do you
pay more for thongs? Ok, mind wandering again.)

IME, with whitewater BAs anyway, the ones with the most pockets are the
serious whitewater BAs, with a full harness and stuff, that all adds to the
price. Freestyle type BAs, which are cut to allow maximum movement, tend
to be the most comfortable, even the unisex ones, the Palm fusion and Nookie
Playmonster BAs are especially good, IMO.

Paddles, get what you are comfortable with.

I've been using a 60 deg feather, which I'm not greatly happy with but it'll
do till I work out what I really really like. It can be a spare after that.
What is the shaft length relative to? I mean, is it something logical like
the taller you are the longer your paddle shaft length? Or it it just what
you prefer? I guess the guys at the shop can help me with that.

Regarding length and feather, get what you are comfortable with, personally
I think that the shorter the better, with a low angle of feather, but YMMV.
One thing to be aware of, especially if you have small hands, is that if the
paddle shaft is toowide in diameter it can be quite uncomfortable or even
painful after a while, most of the better makes, such as werner, Robson et al
offer a smaller diameter shaft on all their paddles.

Throw bag - 15 metres.

Would you reccomend this even for a newbie? I know how to use it (I work as
a lifeguard) but I'd be worried about carrying it for some strange reason!
Do you think that all adult kayakers should have one? Where abouts do you
carry yours BTW?

I personally think that all whitewater paddlers should own and know how
to use a throwline, I keep mine crabbed to my seat, behind me.

Talk to the more experienced paddlers in your club though, they will know
your abilities better than we do and can give good advice on this.

If you do get one, make sure you retie the loop of rope that goes through
the end of the bag (it makes a handle like thing) with something like a
bowline, and remove any loop at the other end of the rope.

Tow line - if you buy one get an elasticated one - it is far easier to tow
with than the non elasticated type - also, make sure there is a small
metal
crab on the end rather than a plastic clip.

Again, a good idea for a newbie? I'd be really worried about getting one.

Wouldn't bother personally, shoujldn't be towing on moving water anyway,
and on flat water a sling and crab do just as well, and are more generally
useful.

A sling and a crab for hauling your boat up and down embankments. We have
a
2m sling and a self locking crab - if you can find a piece of cork thread
the sling theough the cork in case you drop it in the water.

Where do I get these? Anything that makes my boat easier to carry is good!

The sling you should be able to get from any outdoors shop that sells
rock-climbing equipment, and you'll be able to get a karabiner in the same
place.

These are the most genuine useful bit of kit to have, you can use it as a
makeshift skeg to help a beginner keep in a straight line on fla****er, as
a towing aid (crab though the front grabloop, loop of sling over your
shoulder), to drag your boat around, or secure it to the bank if you are
inspecting a feature, and to provide a belay point in rescue and kit
recovery situations.

Spray deck that fits quite tightly, neoprene is best. - tip, you can run
silicone sealant under the lip of the cockpit to make a better seal - but
it
does come undone - you can also seal all screwheads the same way.

Again, I'm having problems with this one. I can't seem to find a decent
neoprene deck with a small enough waist to fit properly.

Nookie will do special order spraydecks, for little or no premium, IIRC,
so may playboater, both of whose spraydecks are very very good, even if
Nookie's cags are a bit leaky at the moment.

Emergency kit - buy a spare bung for your boat and find some plastic
sealant
of some sort to carry with you. Plus all the FA kit you will need - don't
forget you own personal medication - you might not be able to give someone
else codiene, but you can give it to yourself if you need it.

some gaffer tape is also always useful to have around.

Where the hell do you carry all this stuff? I'd be able to fit it behind my
seat, but how do I keep it there?

most of it can be kept in a drybag that can be crabbed to the seat, if there
are loops there, as in necky and some older dagger boats, or to the back of
the backband. if you deflate the airbag(s) slightlyand stuff the kit on top,
then reinflate them, is shouldn't move too much. throwlines can be stored in
the same way, but shouldn't be in a drybag, just crab them through the handles.
Keep the sling in the same place, or, if the BA pocket is big enough, in there.


--
Dave Manby
Details of the Coruh river and my book "Many Rivers To Run" at
http://www.dmanby.demon.co.uk

Charlie, Forget the long sleeve wet suit top.
It will wreck your underarms, chafe like hell, sweat the dickens out of
you and no one will go near yuo when you peal it off.
There are other products, Fuzzy Rubber is one that comes to mind. A
good spray top or dry top are adiquate if you have thick poly pro under
it.
Don't do like a lady friend of mine does.
She wears thin lycra shirts under a dry suit and it does not keep her
warm If she goes in she will get a hell of a start. Now those blouses
look fantastic on her but a thick old HH sweater would be much more
practical.
Back to the BA. you may have to look for a womans fit. What works for
me will likely not work for you ( comfortably ) .
That one I would research as the ladies i paddle with have all had
problems getting a PFD ( BA ) that fit properly.
Lord I sound so authorative!!.. The main thing is to stay safe and have
fun. You will figure out what works for you pretty soon.

Charlie wrote:

Already got, although I'm looking at buying a long sleeve wesuit top for
cold days and a set of short trousers for hot days!

My first wetsuit was for sailing and had a separate long sleeve top and
trousers. Trying out paddling I dug it out of the attic and gave it a
try... and it was soon evident that although the trousers would be fine,
the top was far more trouble than it was worth. Far too much resistance
to arm movement.

Is it just me that has noticed that the more pockets you get the more money
you pay? It's such a negligable amount of fabric used!

But non-negligible amounts of extra stitching. Whatever, that's the way
it goes :-(

I've been using a 60 deg feather, which I'm not greatly happy with but it'll
do till I work out what I really really like.

That's pretty low compared to typical WW use, which tends to be 80+.
Not that that means you should use 80+, but I'd be surprised if there
isn't a higher feather paddle you could borrow for an hour or so and
decide what you prefer. Punching out into a wind blowing on to shore (a
very typical surfing environment) can be a bit more of a hack with low
feathers.

What is the shaft length relative to? I mean, is it something logical like
the taller you are the longer your paddle shaft length? Or it it just what
you prefer? I guess the guys at the shop can help me with that.

They should be able to. Height gives a start, but beyond that it's a
lot of preference based on your personal paddling style.

Good idea. I've seen some nice rucksack ones which is good because I cycle
everywhere.

That suggests you use rucksacks for cycling, which is usually a
/horrible/ idea. Get a rack on the bike and either bungee a drybag to
it, or see if something like an Ortlieb rolltop waterproof pannier will
fit in the boat. I doubt the 20l rear rollers would fit, but the
universals might well manage to tuck in behind the seat.
Why carry weight on your back when you've a perfectly good weight
bearing bike frame to do it for you? If the boat is based where you're
paddling think about a trailer for the bike, which will easily take all
your paddling kit.

Would you reccomend this even for a newbie? I know how to use it (I work as
a lifeguard) but I'd be worried about carrying it for some strange reason!
Do you think that all adult kayakers should have one? Where abouts do you
carry yours BTW?

It slips behind the seat okay and isn't really any bother having. For
naughty sections of river and on the beach for surf it's a Cunning Plan
to have folk out of their boats on sentry duty with throwbags. You can
improvise a towline out of them if you need to.

Where the hell do you carry all this stuff? I'd be able to fit it behind my
seat, but how do I keep it there?

At the moment it's probably full of buoyancy bags back the let some
air out and you've got some space. What you push in will be in a dry
bag so will add to your basic buoyancy in any case, so you don't need to
worry about the boat sinking if you have to bail out.

Pete.
--
Peter Clinch Medical Physics IT Officer
Tel 44 1382 660111 ext. 33637 Univ. of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital
Fax 44 1382 640177 Dundee DD1 9SY Scotland UK
net http://www.dundee.ac.uk/~pjclinch/

Is it just me that has noticed that the more pockets you get the more
money
you pay? It's such a negligable amount of fabric used! (Like, why do you
pay more for thongs? Ok, mind wandering again.)

I think they call it added value - so you pay more... No, doesn't make sense
to me either. Now thongs, we'd better discuss off group :-)


Paddles, get what you are comfortable with.

I've been using a 60 deg feather, which I'm not greatly happy with but
it'll
do till I work out what I really really like. It can be a spare after
that.
What is the shaft length relative to? I mean, is it something logical
like
the taller you are the longer your paddle shaft length? Or it it just
what
you prefer? I guess the guys at the shop can help me with that.

The recommended measure was from floor to top of your reach with your
fingers wrapped round the top edce of the padle, if you know what I mean.
But for WW most people are going for shorter paddles.


Throw bag - 15 metres.

Would you reccomend this even for a newbie? I know how to use it (I work
as
a lifeguard) but I'd be worried about carrying it for some strange reason!
Do you think that all adult kayakers should have one? Where abouts do you
carry yours BTW?

I strap mine in behind the seat. Discard the chest harness, you'll rarely
use a throw line from your boat. But if inspecting rapids you should always
take your paddle and throw line with you, since by efinition what you are
looking at has a higher element of risk. If you have the gear with you and
someone falls in you can perform a rescue. If only one has the gear and he
falls in...

Already got, not allowed on the water with the club without them.

Tow line - if you buy one get an elasticated one - it is far easier to
tow
with than the non elasticated type - also, make sure there is a small
metal
crab on the end rather than a plastic clip.

Again, a good idea for a newbie? I'd be really worried about getting one.


You won't need it straight away, but you'll want one sooner or leter. I hate
carrying it.

A sling and a crab for hauling your boat up and down embankments. We
have
a
2m sling and a self locking crab - if you can find a piece of cork
thread
the sling theough the cork in case you drop it in the water.

Where do I get these? Anything that makes my boat easier to carry is
good!

Any outdoor shop that does climbing gear.


Spray deck that fits quite tightly, neoprene is best. - tip, you can run
silicone sealant under the lip of the cockpit to make a better seal -
but
it
does come undone - you can also seal all screwheads the same way.

Again, I'm having problems with this one. I can't seem to find a decent
neoprene deck with a small enough waist to fit properly.

Eat more chips :-)

Emergency kit - buy a spare bung for your boat and find some plastic
sealant
of some sort to carry with you. Plus all the FA kit you will need -
don't
forget you own personal medication - you might not be able to give
someone
else codiene, but you can give it to yourself if you need it.

Where the hell do you carry all this stuff? I'd be able to fit it behind
my
seat, but how do I keep it there?

You are supposed to tie it in, but if you deflate your buoyancy bags, stuff
the gear in evenly, some left side, some right, and re-inflate, you'll be
okay - BTW, don't forget your flasks, changes of clothes, etc all have to go
in there too :-)

Ewan Scott

Tow line - if you buy one get an elasticated one - it is far easier to
tow
with than the non elasticated type - also, make sure there is a small
metal
crab on the end rather than a plastic clip.

Again, a good idea for a newbie? I'd be really worried about getting
one.

Wouldn't bother personally, shoujldn't be towing on moving water anyway,
and on flat water a sling and crab do just as well, and are more generally
useful.

Well you can use the sling and crab for other things, but towing with a
sling and crab is uncomfortable and the release can be awkward. I must
admit, that I've only seen a tow line used in anger once, and it was obvious
that a quick release with an elasticated shock absorber would have been much
easier on the towing paddler. The towed paddler made no effort to paddle and
was "dead in the water" as it were, so all the strain was on the towing
paddler and a sling around one shoulder would have been a real strain.

I have tow lines because I'm a coach and we use them for training and have
them handy just in case we need them. I've never taken one on a river
though.

Ewan Scott

In message
"Ewan Scott" wrote:

Tow line - if you buy one get an elasticated one - it is far easier to
tow
with than the non elasticated type - also, make sure there is a small
metal
crab on the end rather than a plastic clip.

Again, a good idea for a newbie? I'd be really worried about getting
one.

Wouldn't bother personally, shoujldn't be towing on moving water anyway,
and on flat water a sling and crab do just as well, and are more generally
useful.

Well you can use the sling and crab for other things, but towing with a
sling and crab is uncomfortable and the release can be awkward. I must
admit, that I've only seen a tow line used in anger once, and it was obvious
that a quick release with an elasticated shock absorber would have been much
easier on the towing paddler. The towed paddler made no effort to paddle and
was "dead in the water" as it were, so all the strain was on the towing
paddler and a sling around one shoulder would have been a real strain.

I have tow lines because I'm a coach and we use them for training and have
them handy just in case we need them. I've never taken one on a river
though.

There are two different towing scenarios - which require different solutions.

First, tired paddler or spare boat on flat water. This is what the towing
belt systems are for.

Second - recovering a lost boat to the bank in whitewater. Don't use a
towing belt or cows tail here, as there won't be enough pull for the quick
release to work properly, but there will be enough to get you into trouble.
This is where you use the sling over the shoulder, as you can release
easily, without missing more than two paddle strokes. As it's only a short
distance/time, comfort isn't important, safety is.



Ewan Scott



--
Alan Adams

http://www.nckc.org.uk/

Hi Charlie,

I see you've had plenty of advice but trust me you're not the only one
in your boat (could come as a surprise as I don't think there's usually
space for more than one in an I:3)!! Most of us female paddlers have
very similar problems with kit. It's the problem with doing a sport
that has been male dominated for so many years & it's only in relatively
recent times that more women have been getting involved!

Much of the advice is sound but as many say it's much down to personal
preference. I've been trying to find a new BA of late - it's a
minefield. Palm amongst others have had pretty poor IMO attempts as
making some female BA's - I still can't been my Palm Fusion for comfort
& fit. Quite a few of the other females I paddle with got these after
trying mine & love their's too so it's definately worth a look. There
are some new ones on the market this year which may be better but I'm
yet to be convinced!

As for cags - very much personal preference. I use reed chillcheater
which someone else mentioned - more than anything 'cos they will make to
measure - I had one with a shorter body & arms & narrower waist than
their standard off the shelf ones at no extra cost & made within a week!
They're definatley more comfy IMO but probably in all honesty not quite
so durable as other materials - just don't scramble through any thorn
bushes!!!! Also highly recommend their after sales service (note the
thorn bush!). Other advice you've had here is good too on that though.

A Paddle - I appreciate people are trying to stop you from making an
expensive & inappropriate purchase here. You could buy cheap to get by
initially, however - if you're really enjoying this sport & wanting to
stay with it, bear in mind this is the tool of your trade. The paddle
has to be an extention of you. You MUST feel comfortable with it, I
think this is somewhere you shouldn't skimp too much (I'm not saying go
buy the top model, just don't buy anything that's too cheap). You'll
probably be looking around a 191 - 194cm length (I'm 5'3" & use 194),
you say you're not comfortable with a 60 feather - try others. Everyone
used to use 90's but most of us are moving to less feather as this puts
much less strain on the wrists - after years of paddling with 90's
you're far more likely to suffer tendonitis & the like. Many people now
paddle with 45's. You're obviously paddling with a club - ask to borrow
everyone's paddles & give them a good 20 minutes paddling each (& longer
if you can). Bear in mind cheaper paddles are heavier & more rigid so
harder work to lift & you get a lot less feel from the water. This is
why often lighter (often more expensive) paddles feel more wierd at
first - all of a sudden you're getting so much more feedback & you don't
know how to inturpret this - however it'll be a godsend later in your
paddling!!!

Think I've gone on long enough!
Good luck with all the purchases & hope it all goes well. (ps the yak
helmets are good)!!! ;-)
Jasmine

Charlie wrote:

I'm going off to buy most of my kit next week (at Eddy Lines if you live in
the Welsh sticks like me!) and was after some recommendations. Basically I
need:

A cag (I'm thinking semi dry, I don't like being wet, and I fall in alot!)

A buoyancy aid (How much buoyancy should I get? Should I go for one with a
harness? Is it a case of the more you spend, the more change it will have
of saving your life?)

A paddle (I've been borrowing the clubs basic ones. What feather should I
get if I want to do basic whitewater and basic surf? Also, does my height
affect the length of the shaft? I'm 5ft tall!)

A deck (First neoprene! I've seen one with a yellow knee strap, is this a
good idea? Or should I go for the pyrahna one to match my boat? If I've
got an I:3 221 so I need a keyhole deck?)

A helmet (I like the Yak one, this is what loads of the guys I paddle with
use, and it fits me well. Anyone know a site with the price better than
£35?)

I think that's it! Yell if I've left anything out. I'm looking for general
advise about purchasing, but also if there are any ladies out there with kit
that they think works really well for them, could they post too?
Pleeeeeeeeease? I find some of the men's kit really uncomfortable,
especially the buoyancy aids!

Charlie.

Jasmine Waters wrote:

A Paddle - I appreciate people are trying to stop you from making an
expensive & inappropriate purchase here. You could buy cheap to get by
initially, however - if you're really enjoying this sport & wanting to
stay with it, bear in mind this is the tool of your trade. The paddle
has to be an extention of you. You MUST feel comfortable with it, I
think this is somewhere you shouldn't skimp too much (I'm not saying go
buy the top model, just don't buy anything that's too cheap).

Agreed, though I'll note that a friend with decades of experience is
just in the process of replacing his sea paddle, and despite the decades
of experience still isn't completely sure what he wants...

I agree with Jasmine not to buy any old thing, but a basic "economy"
paddle from e.g. Lendal[1] (say, Polypro Logiks on an economy glass
shaft) is still a decent paddle, and probably much better than a noname
thing. It's a damn site cheaper than their top models though!

Pete.

[1] I use Lendal for examples because I'm personally familiar with them
and have found their kit does for me. Beyond that, it's not a
particular recommendation over other paddles, and they're certainly not
the only game in town.
--
Peter Clinch Medical Physics IT Officer
Tel 44 1382 660111 ext. 33637 Univ. of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital
Fax 44 1382 640177 Dundee DD1 9SY Scotland UK
net http://www.dundee.ac.uk/~pjclinch/

First, tired paddler or spare boat on flat water. This is what the towing
belt systems are for.

Second - recovering a lost boat to the bank in whitewater. Don't use a
towing belt or cows tail here, as there won't be enough pull for the quick
release to work properly, but there will be enough to get you into
trouble.
This is where you use the sling over the shoulder, as you can release
easily, without missing more than two paddle strokes. As it's only a short
distance/time, comfort isn't important, safety is.

Good point.

Ewan Scott

"Peter Clinch" wrote in message
...
My first wetsuit was for sailing and had a separate long sleeve top and
trousers. Trying out paddling I dug it out of the attic and gave it a
try... and it was soon evident that although the trousers would be fine,
the top was far more trouble than it was worth. Far too much resistance
to arm movement.

I'm definatly going to get one, I'm going to do a bit of surfing this summer
(I know, I'm evil! It's just the perfect conditions for it around here in
mid wales!). I'll try it out for paddling but Ill proberbly end up not
using it for that. Saying all this though, my friend loves her long sleeve
wet suit for paddling, perhaps hers fits well? I don't know, I'm just
theorising!

That's pretty low compared to typical WW use, which tends to be 80+.
Not that that means you should use 80+, but I'd be surprised if there
isn't a higher feather paddle you could borrow for an hour or so and
decide what you prefer. Punching out into a wind blowing on to shore (a
very typical surfing environment) can be a bit more of a hack with low
feathers.

I started off with a 90deg and just couldn't get on with it. Too much
movement in the wrists for me. I'm going to try a 45 next week and see what
I like best from the three. I'll proberbly go with a 60 though for now. I
can always flog it to someone else in the club!

That suggests you use rucksacks for cycling, which is usually a
/horrible/ idea. Get a rack on the bike and either bungee a drybag to
it, or see if something like an Ortlieb rolltop waterproof pannier will
fit in the boat. I doubt the 20l rear rollers would fit, but the
universals might well manage to tuck in behind the seat.
Why carry weight on your back when you've a perfectly good weight
bearing bike frame to do it for you? If the boat is based where you're
paddling think about a trailer for the bike, which will easily take all
your paddling kit.

I keep the boat in the club shed so it gets slung on the trailer and meets
me whereever we're going! As for the bike, well, I mountain bike and I
don't fancy taking panniers on and off everytime I use it! Much easier to
use a rucksack. Especially if you have a nice climbing one with a padded
back. I figured I would just get a dry bag to fit inside it to make things
easier.



Once again, ta for the advise!

Charlie.

"Jasmine Waters" wrote in message
...

I see you've had plenty of advice but trust me you're not the only one
in your boat (could come as a surprise as I don't think there's usually
space for more than one in an I:3)!! Most of us female paddlers have
very similar problems with kit. It's the problem with doing a sport
that has been male dominated for so many years & it's only in relatively
recent times that more women have been getting involved!

I'm definaly feeling that particular vibe. I've been trying on some
paddling trousers and they're all about a foot too long! You can tell that
they're designed by men because even the ladies ones are far too long! I
reckon I'm going to have to have the trousers custom made.

I've been trying to find a new BA of late - it's a
minefield. Palm amongst others have had pretty poor IMO attempts as
making some female BA's - I still can't been my Palm Fusion for comfort
& fit.

Write, I'll make sure they show me that one. Nice colour too.
(Should I be worried about that?) I really hate the way that companies only
seem to make ladies gear in biks and pale blues. Dammit, I want manly
colours to match my nice red boat! (Only a woman could say that, right?)

As for cags - very much personal preference. I use reed chillcheater
which someone else mentioned - more than anything 'cos they will make to
measure - I had one with a shorter body & arms & narrower waist than
their standard off the shelf ones at no extra cost & made within a week!

If I don't find one I like when I go shopping I'll proberbly consider this.
It's a really good idea for the companies to custom fit items.


(ps the yak helmets are good)!!! ;-)

I bought one after a reccomendation from a bloke in the club actually. I
just had to take his advice, he's rather good looking!

Ta for the advise!

Chalrie.

Jasmine

Charlie wrote:

I keep the boat in the club shed so it gets slung on the trailer and meets
me whereever we're going! As for the bike, well, I mountain bike and I
don't fancy taking panniers on and off everytime I use it! Much easier to
use a rucksack.

No.
Ortlieb pannier attachment: pick up pannier (picking up releases the
rack security catches). Put pannier on rack (letting go engages rack
security catches). To remove, reverse process (i.e., pick up and put down).

Especially if you have a nice climbing one with a padded
back.

I have a selection, and a nice mountain running pack too. And they
still *suck* on the bike compared to panniers. Really. I use the
panniers on my MTB as well, and unless you're doing really daft things
they're not really any trouble. I do use a pack on the MTB at times,
and when I do the rack is no trouble (in fact it keeps the rear mudguard
in a more useful place to stop me being showered in cack). Unless you
have rear suspension putting a rack on an MTB improves its utility, as
you can cycle long distances cross country without a weight on your
shoulders.

Pete.
--
Peter Clinch Medical Physics IT Officer
Tel 44 1382 660111 ext. 33637 Univ. of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital
Fax 44 1382 640177 Dundee DD1 9SY Scotland UK
net http://www.dundee.ac.uk/~pjclinch/

Two things.
If you are a newbie I would not put a tow rope on deck or around your
waste. You may be advertising a skill you are not ready to practice in
moving or tormented water yet. You need the rope but stowing it away
may be the best idea for now.

The feather on the paddle for white water is normally very small. often
flat it would likely be 10 perhaps 30 degrees. a sea paddle will be
longer 220 CM for me at 5'8" and my feathere angle is about 60 or 70
degrees for the sea. When in white water I try to borrow a shorter
paddle with little or no feather.
I use my junky WW paddle or a sea paddle when on the river. not the
best.

The feather on the paddle for white water is normally very small. often
flat it would likely be 10 perhaps 30 degrees. a sea paddle will be
longer 220 CM for me at 5'8" and my feathere angle is about 60 or 70
degrees for the sea. When in white water I try to borrow a shorter
paddle with little or no feather.

Can you clarify?

Amongst the group that we paddle with all the paddles are 90 degree through
to 45 degree, one or two 30 degree, but I can't think of any who paddle with
flat paddles - ie with no feather at all - there are some at the pool we
use, but three of the kayak groups I know who use the same pool all bring
their own paddles with either 45 or 90 degree blades.

Not looking for an argument, just not clear as to what you are saying
because it doesn't match what I see locally.

Ewan Scott

I went, I tried on and I bought! A Palm SideWinder cag (I know it was
expensive, but it fitted so well!), a Palm RiverTec BA (Again, cost quite a
bit but fitted really well, I found that the ladies version didn't fit well,
although it had my chest size on it, it was just too tight, even over just a
thin jumper) and a Nookie Delta shock deck. I left the paddle for now, I'll
be borrowing club kit still for a while! I'm all kitted out!

Charlie.

"Charlie" wrote in message
...
I'm going off to buy most of my kit next week (at Eddy Lines if you live
in
the Welsh sticks like me!) and was after some recommendations. Basically
I
need:

A cag (I'm thinking semi dry, I don't like being wet, and I fall in alot!)

A buoyancy aid (How much buoyancy should I get? Should I go for one with
a
harness? Is it a case of the more you spend, the more change it will have
of saving your life?)

A paddle (I've been borrowing the clubs basic ones. What feather should I
get if I want to do basic whitewater and basic surf? Also, does my height
affect the length of the shaft? I'm 5ft tall!)

A deck (First neoprene! I've seen one with a yellow knee strap, is this a
good idea? Or should I go for the pyrahna one to match my boat? If I've
got an I:3 221 so I need a keyhole deck?)

A helmet (I like the Yak one, this is what loads of the guys I paddle with
use, and it fits me well. Anyone know a site with the price better than
£35?)

I think that's it! Yell if I've left anything out. I'm looking for
general
advise about purchasing, but also if there are any ladies out there with
kit
that they think works really well for them, could they post too?
Pleeeeeeeeease? I find some of the men's kit really uncomfortable,
especially the buoyancy aids!

Charlie.

--
Kallistos: Contemporary Jewellery Design
http://www.kallistos.co.uk
eBay: http://kallistos.notlong.com

Ewan Scott wrote:

Amongst the group that we paddle with all the paddles are 90 degree through
to 45 degree, one or two 30 degree, but I can't think of any who paddle with
flat paddles - ie with no feather at all

I've got a variable feather paddle for sea kayaking: I use it flat
if there's a following wind or no wind, and into the wind will set
it at about 70, or a bit less (back towards 60) if there's not too
much of a blow.

Traditional Greenland paddles are all flat, but OTOH they're much
narrower than typical modern paddles so it's less of an issue.

My river/surf paddle is 67. I do like paddling flat for the sake
of my wrists but in surf it's hard enough banging out through
breakers in a wee boat to start with, adding extra wind resistance
when the wind is almost always blowing on to the shore is just
adding salt to the wound!

Pete.
--
Peter Clinch Medical Physics IT Officer
Tel 44 1382 660111 ext. 33637 Univ. of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital
Fax 44 1382 640177 Dundee DD1 9SY Scotland UK
net http://www.dundee.ac.uk/~pjclinch/