Re: why paddles matter - or do they?

"VK1NF" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote in message news:<[EMAIL PROTECTED]>...
> Building light, comfortable paddles using wood and epoxy isn't difficult.
> I've done three so far - takes about 6-8 hours, and costs less than $25 Cdn.
> If anyone wants info on how to do it, feel free to drop me an 'e' -
> 
> -- 
> " You Shouldn't Have Joined
>    If You Can't Take A Joke"
>    Royal Navy Axiom
>    Replace vk1nf with rhayes to reply
> "andrei" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote in message
> news:[EMAIL PROTECTED]
> > Hi everybody,
> >
> > I have another newbie question: I was told that paddles a really
> > important and that often when people are having a bad experience with
> > their kayaks, it's the cheap paddle which is responsible.
> >
> > I bought a Tarpon 100 sit on top recreational kayak which I use on the
> > Intercoastal River in the New Smyrna Beach and Edgewater area.  I
> > absolutely love it, and I do find that this kayaks traks just fine and
> > fast even though many experienced kayakers find these very slow and
> > heavy.  But then, I am 6.2 220lbs and I *enjoy* the efffort.  For me,
> > going for three hours against the wind and the tide is simply great
> > fun.
> >
> > My wife, who has the same kayak, is having a hard time.  Our kayaks
> > came with 30$ paddles Carlisle.  The next paddle model up (judging by
> > price) was already at 90 bucks!  Should she consider changing?
> >
> > I mean, what does the paddle do?  It "grabs" the water so the kayaker
> > can pull himself forward, right?  So what's the big deal about
> > paddles?!  I don't imagine that two buckets on each side of a broom
> > would be very pleasant to use, but is it worth spending 90 bucks or
> > more on a paddle?  Would that help my wife?
> >
> > Thanks!


The paddle is the thing you hold the full time you are on the water. 
I have never bought a $100.00 paddle. They are all more expensive. 
When I am not on the water I am wishing I were.
If you hit a pond once every couple of weeks and cover little
distance, anything will do.
If you do 25 + KM the odd day that nice light paddle is a great thing.
If I were artistic or handy I would make my own wooden paddle , but I
am neither.
A rescue line to the bow of her boat for a little tug to help her
along may be a great idea. Make sure you have a quick release from
your rescue line, if possible from both you and her.
I have no idea of the environment you are paddling in , but a good
paddle is a joy.
Enjoy a great sport
Alex