19.
“Get a subscription to Rapid magazine.” –Jeff Brenhaug, Minneapolis, MN (We swear he actually wrote that.)
20.
While the industry awaits a re- placement for Royalex, whitewa- ter canoeists should check retail shops for old inventory. Older models are as good today as when they were released five to 10 years ago—good solo canoe designs don't go out of style.
21. 13.
If you find yourself on the cusp of the weight range between boat sizes, always size up, ad- vises Bush. A slightly larger ride means more stability. “If it’s not comfy, it’ll collect dust.” The ex- ception is for freestyle kayakers working on aerial moves—they’ll get more pop out of a smaller ride. Coward adds that many people step on the scale with- out considering what their gear weighs. “Put on your layers, PFD and helmet, and throw in some rescue gear, lunch and a water bottle, and you’ve easily added 10 pounds,” he says.
14.
If you want to go on overnight missions consider three things: How much stuff you need to fit inside, how easy it is to access your gear and how your boat will perform once loaded. Some kay- aks have removable rear pillars, clever backband releases and lash points behind the seat.
15.
Good outfitting fits like a glove, so test boats in the gear you'll be paddling in, including foot- wear, layers and a PFD.
16.
Consider whether your skirt will be compatible with your kayak's cockpit size and rim, or if you'll need to invest in a new one. You should always be able to get it on and, most important- ly, off by yourself.
17.
Rafts tend to be longer term in- vestments. Try to find a raft that will satisfy your year-round plans, from rowing multi-day canyon rivers to paddle guiding day trips with your family.
18.
When considering a raft pur- chase, think about how often or how hard your raft will get used. Watch for materials and manu- facturers’ warranties. Saving a little on your boat allows you to spend more on must-have acces- sories, like coolers.
More so than with kayaks, white- water canoes hold their value. This is great news if you're not sure which boat is best for you, long term. Buy the boat you need now. Paddle it , learn it and sell it in a few years losing only a little when you buy the next boat you need.
22.
Most whitewater canoes, solo or tandem, don't come with out- fitting. If you have a virgin hull and pile of anchor plates, straps, pads and tubes of adhesive, and want to tackle it yourself, have a friend's boat there as a guide. If you're not a DIY type, ask around to see who in your area does out- fitting.
23.
Unless you're paddling tight, technical rivers, don't be too quick to get a super short OC. The stability and glide of longer canoes are nice when you're learning or prefer a relaxing day on the river.
Find more great gear, kayaks, canoes and paddleboards in the 2015 Paddling Buyer’s Guide.
www.rapidmedia.com 67
PHOTO: BARNY YOUNG
PHOTO: BARNY YOUNG
PHOTO:PASCALGIRARD
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