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Sea Kayaks Techniques Bulletin Board
Re: folding kayak comparisons
Posted By: Alex M In Response To: folding kayak comparisons *LINK* (Pamela)
Date: Monday, 1 November 2004, at 1:28 p.m.
: If you would like to compare folding kayaks, you can get basic information
: at: www.paddling.net/buyersguide/foldingKayaks.html: My feeling is that it's best to try a variety of boats before you buy one.
: What I learned as a novice is that boats fit rather like shoes -- and my
: first boat wasn't a great fit. Plus they all handle differently. Perhaps
: that means a trip to a dealer with a variety of boats to try, or a day
: trip to an area where there are boats to rent. But given the cost of boats
: -- even used boats -- you don't want to make an expensive mistake.: I'd also suggest lessons for everyone. Nothing beats safe paddling.
Yet even better is to get a book "Complete Folding Kayaker" by Ralph Diaz, 2003 or earlier. 2003 contains more about sails on a kayak, and some other additions - but older models are all covered in the earlier edition. Perhaps the first edition can be found in libraries now that they have a second edition in stores. Of course, it's better to try. Some people in older age who were quite comfortable with canoes, were disappointed after having bought kayaks, following the crowd. Canoes are eaier to get in and out, and position can be changed a lot, without risk of capsizing. But such an open-cockpit barge like Folbot or Klepper is a different story - this is something between kayak and canoe (closer to kayak in handling). The only thing to worry with these folders is usually taller than average height, especially in short 12 ft singles like Aleut. Of course, it's always better to try.
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