C-Forum

hello,
I would like to pick up either oc-1 or c-1 this season. My question is should I start with one before the other?

A brief bit on my current paddling and my oc-1 or c-1 intentions.
I have been paddleing k-1 for 10yrs currently own and paddle a squirt boat, slalom k-1(not so much these days), creek boat, play boat and have ACA whitewater cert.

My hope with either oc-1 or c-1 is to become proficient enough to eddie hop on technical III, really work the river. maybe some IV way down the road. not interested in rodeo stuff other than stern squirts and surfing.

I have paddled an Atom for maybe 1hr in moving water, but did roll it 8 out of 10 tries.
incase size changes suggestions: 5'8"; 165lbs; 30" inseam

Thank you in advance for your suggestions.
Buzz

Greetings....

I would head straight for a C1 (no bailing!) if I were. In terms of what boat, where are you located? There are many of us on the board that would be happy to show you the ropes of rolling a C1 (so you can make it 10 our of 10!), and generally giving you an idea of what type of boat you might want.
The Atom is a great boat to start with, although I prefer I Viper as I prefer glass to plastic....

Since you have already been paddling slalom k-1, you will find the transition from the dark side to be quite entertaining and pretty fast . My opinion is to get a slalom c-1 since you are already used to that performance factor and understand how the hull designs work. Fanatic, Fanatic '92 (F-2), Zealot, Superglide, Dynamic should all do well with you, though the other slalom c-1'ers on this board can probably refine the suggestions.

Definitely make plans to come to the Spring Armada around May 11 (check the calendar site for more information). You will have a chance to try out several of the different c-1s that are around (plastic jug, slalom, and squirt) in addition to hanging out with some REALLY happy boaters (that's because we usually leave our medication home for the weekend ).

The Atom is the plastic boat that I paddle and I still like it fine. Otherwise, I am anticipating another REALLY fun weekend at the Armada in Sir Adam's Acrobat while he is cruising along in his Viper. Unless, of course, Big Nasty has its way with me, again!

KNeal

come on, where are the open boaters on this question? are yall actually out paddling already?

well, i would have to say c-1, too. it's just so much more like kayak. sounds like you already have the roll down, too.