plastic storage bin as the mold, sprayed the foam in it, and then sanded that to a perfect fit. I like the expand- able foam for its ability to fit to fill any size or shape and relative low cost. It can also be dyed to any color. The closed cell foam adds a softer finish and its elasticity provides greater shock absorption. The specific materi- als however are purely your choice.
The new footbed cradles your whole foot providing full balanced pressure distribution. Since the bulk of the stress is placed on the heels instead of the balls of your feet, your calf muscles don’t have to be constantly taxed. As shown in the pictures it also allows you to change foot positions and to stretch out your legs as desired while still having stable support. The pictured system is based on my style of paddling but can be customized for whatever foot position you prefer.
With proper outfitting it’s amazing how comfortable your kayak can be. In my case, many years ago, I herni- ated three discs in my low back. For that reason, I tend to be very particular about avoiding poor stress and promoting good stress to strengthen the core muscles of the back. With the outfitting discussed in this series of articles, I’m very happy to say that my boat is one of the most comfortable places I ever sit. I’ve never experienced back pain caused by paddling when in a properly outfitted boat. With proper ergonomics, despite my old injury and my penchant for playing in very rough seas, my back actually gets stronger and stronger all the time. Yours can too, so improve your outfitting and happy paddling. v
Gregg Berman is an Emergency Room Registered Nurse, ACA Level 5 Coastal Kayak Instructor and can be found paddling throughout the San Francisco Bay Area playing with his friends in BASK, guiding with Environmental Traveling Companions, and working for Sunrise Mountain Sports in Livermore.
Photos by Gregg Berman and Amy Byers
MOUNTAIN SPORTS
Kayak Center Lake Del Valle Regional Park
Retail Store 2455 Railroad Ave Livermore, CA 94550
• More than 100 kayaks for rent • Valley Sea Kayaks Regional Demo Center • Hobie Mirage kayaks, all models for rent • ACA-Certified Instructors • Guided kayak tours to other locations
Kayaks from Hobie, Valley, Wilderness Systems, Eddyline, Dagger, Perception, and Ocean Kayak
925-447-8330
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