hand paddles

[Matt Johnson]

can you use hand paddles from a C1?

[msims]

Was talking with someone last weekend that was thinking of getting a pair for his CU-fly, as a spare paddle was not an option for such a small boat. I think it might still a bit more of a challenge as you're still sitting a little higher in the water than a yakker, but as long as you remember to only use one mitt, to remain a pure c1er!

Mike.

[sbroam]

I tried them a couple of times and could get around with them, though it was a bit odd. You do sit higher, so you have to bend further over to get a good stroke in. But, you can do forward strokes on both sides simultaneously and control the feather independently! I can't hand roll (well, maybe once) with my bare hands, but can pretty easily do it with hand paddles. They might serve as back up spares in a C-1, but I really don't see how they would be workable in an OC-1, even a little thing like a CU-Fly.

I've got a 5 gallon bucket I had started cutting on to make a set myslef around here somewhere...

[Joey]

i have a pair of power paws that i made out of old 55 gal construction barrels. they work great, and i use them regularly. they do take a little getting use to, but they make surfing waves really fun. they are great to have around as a spare paddle. i have given them out several times to people that have broken paddles. try and make a pair, youll be glad you have them around. --- joey

[PAC]

I concur using them as a back up. Hard for me to use as a primary (I'm not as flexiable in my old age) but they work good as a back up. I can even roll with them - although I flip more with them on!
I'll have to check out Joey's surfing suggestion! I'm sure the Ks will love that at Swimmers on the Yough!

[Timzj]

I also carry them as a spare on any run that raft paddles don't abound (namely not the ocoee) I haven't run anything with them, but they're easy to roll with, and they have done great things for my cartwheeling smoothness in the pool, since they force you to use your body more. they'll fit in any boat, and can be a lifesaver for you or your K1 buddies. I use the original power Paww by Nate, since I won a pair in a drawing.

[marshwater]

i always carry power paws as a back-up. after i had surgery on my hand i actually eased back into boating with them. i got to the point where i ran gorilla (green river) and decided i was ready for a stick again. they work a little better in creekers than playboats sicne you are perpetually leaning foward. one difference is the difficulty of staying on edge which you are used to with your paddle. get used to them in a playboat then try them on a creek. the boofing is BIG. overall, they are a good change of pace so you can work out that gimp offside arm and are a great back-up (but you need to know how to use them before you are forced to on the river).