We decided to ask a few of
these early adopters from
the UK SUP scene what is
the attraction to outrigger
paddling?
Pete Holiday
Ryan James
Nick Watt
Adam Stiling
Keith Hopkins
Ollie Shilston
Colin Elston
Dave Samuel
Why should I try an
outrigger canoe?
What is a Huli?
Huli is the term given to capsizing and it
can happen very quickly and without
warning as you are learning in an OC1. The
good news is OC1s are easy to right and
climb back on and with the self-bailer there
is little water in the canoe. In a six man
canoe it can also happen quickly for a
number of reasons, but this time once the
canoe is righted there’s a lot of bailing
required to empty. Fortunately you Huli a
lot less in an OC6, in theory anyway.
As many a SUP paddler has confirmed it
really is a lot of fun and compliments SUP
immensely. The catch, power, exit and
recovery phases of the paddle stroke are all
easier to tune into when paddling an OC.
Whether it’s flat water training in an OC1,
catching epic bumps on a downwind run or
the highly charged energy buzz of a six man
canoe flying through the water – the crew
working as one unit – there is nothing quite
like it. If Carlsberg did team work…
Chasing bumps
If you like to chase bumps on a downwind
SUP run you are going to increase the grin
factor 10 fold on an OC. Don’t take my word
for it, try it and you will see.
Additional considerations
for OC1s over SUP
An OC1 is much lighter in weight and
construction than a SUP so needs to be very
well cared for. Also it’s way longer, generally
21’ or so, meaning storage and
transportation is a serious consideration.
Some garages are a fraction too short. You
will need V-bars for some cars and also good
padding on racks / bars.
Essential reading
Outrigger Canoeing – A Paddlers Guide,
Steve West, Kanu Culture, Batini Books. A
fascinating and in-depth history and guide
to all things outrigger.
OC1 – A Paddlers Guide – Steve West,
Kanu Culture, Batini Books. Similar to above.
Where can I try an OC?
Events
Outrigger Canoe Club UK – founded in 2002, based in London – www.OCUK.org Paddle Round The Pier – Brighton – July
Paddle Fest – Carbis Bay – July
Plus, a number of club meetings, races and
intro to OC days – check club websites and
Facebook.
Royal Canoe Club – Outrigger Section – founded in 1987, based in Teddington
www.royaloutrigger.com OC suppliers
Below is a list of clubs who actively encourage new paddlers