PADDLER 102
PADDLER 102
Let ’ s explore some of these factors
A canoe used primarily for interpretive or functional FreeStyle should have a moderately rounded bottom , soft chines , and modest rocker . These characteristics allow the hull to be heeled or pitched easily and smoothly . The canoe should be narrow enough so that the paddler can ( when centred in the boat ) readily reach across the gunwales and hold the paddle shaft vertically , with the blade fully submerged . When transverse , it must be wide enough to accommodate the paddler ’ s feet and legs ( from toes to knees ). The hull depth should be such that the seat may be mounted high enough for comfortable kneeling with adequate foot clearance .
A modest tumblehome will allow adequate room between the paddler ’ s shaft hand and the gunwale . Increased tumblehome will allow the canoe to be heeled a bit further without taking water over the rail . Overall , lengths of 12 ’ -14 ’ are typical for solo canoes and 15 ’ -16 ’ for tandems . Lastly , a hull used primarily for FreeStyle should be symmetrical . Many skilled paddlers find these same canoes quite satisfying as day and weekend trippers .
TOURING / TRIPPING
Canoes designed for touring / tripping may also be fine FreeStyle boats . These hulls will likely be longer and have a bit less rocker . These boats will be faster and easier to hold on course though they may not be quite as nimble when it comes to tight turns . Many modern touring hulls are asymmetrical , which mostly refers to the stern being a bit skegged or pinched . While a skegged stern resists turning while the hull is level , its effect is less when heeled . These boats are quite functional with the various FreeStyle techniques and manoeuvres .
CARBON FIBRE OR KEVLAR HULL
A top-of-the-line , ultra-light-weight carbon fibre or Kevlar hull may be enticing , but a similar hull of heavier and less expensive fibreglass may perform nearly as well . A Royalex or similar plastic hull may be another step down in price but with the advantage of durability , especially if one paddles in shallow or rocky waters .
At a paddling event some years ago , I had the opportunity to paddle a brand-new Nomad from Colden Canoe . This was a Dave Yost design previously manufactured by Curtis Canoes . The boat was relatively fast and tracked nicely , but it turned beautifully when put through a series of FreeStyle manoeuvres and heeled / pitched smartly . Upon my return to shore , I commented to Paul Meyer ( then owner of Colden Canoe ) that it was a fine tripper and a lot of fun .
Later that day , I bumped into Dave Yost and asked him what he had intended when he designed the Nomad . He responded , and I paraphrase , “ We wanted a fast tripper that would be fun to play with once you reached camp .” Clearly , he nailed it . Unfortunately , Nomad is no longer in production , and I understand the mould no longer exists .
TECHNIQUES
FreeStyle is a skill set that can be applied to most canoeing disciplines . Skilled trippers , touring , whitewater paddlers and even top marathon racers often employ these techniques . So , do you want to buy a FreeStyle canoe ? How you define your needs and the size of your wallet will define the correct boat for you .