Gear for Your Canoe
Gear or equipment has specific applications for the most part and while there is some, like rope, that can be used all throughout the canoe adventure, much of it will have just one place you'll use it. However we you are buying it, you'll find that there are many options. Many of these are on line, while others will be right around the corner. Finding the right gear in a timely manner and at the right price goes a long ways towards a happy and successful paddling adventure.
While in the Water
Here we're looking at gear related to you and your canoe while paddling; paddles, PFD, flotation, tie down spots, rope, and more. For a simple paddling adventure , a canoe, a paddle and a PFD is all you really need. As the trip becomes longer or as the day light hours and location require, you should bring along water, sunscreen, insect repellant, communication equipment like your phone, or two way radio. The addition of a bow and stern line will take your outfitting to another level.
Paddles
Paddles are typically just used to propel your canoe while in the water. Although they can be put into duty as poles to hold a tarp for shade, we primarily use them to get us from put in to pull out. The length of the paddle for you is determined by your height, length of your arms, and your canoe. Although there is a recommended way to judge the best length, some prefer just going by feel. Basic guidelines suggest a paddle for the conditions, type of water and load.
Safety Gear
Personal Flotation Device
When you go out to choose a PFD you'll find that they come in many shapes, colors and materials. Like any piece of sports wear, you'll find that some are made to stand up to more wear and tear than others. Some are made to keep you warm and others to keep you lots of places to put stuff; your pocket items. Which ever one you chose, get one for the activities that you plan to engage in. Spending some time getting the right my just save your life or the life of your passenger. As with paddles, having an extra PFD or two in your gear collection is a good thing.
Make sure that your selected PFD is a Coast Guard approved.
National Safe Boating Council
Canoe Flotation and Covers
Depending on the type of materials used to make your canoe and on the manufacturer, your canoe will have a characteristic to float or sink. We like to keep our canoe above the water and many times, extra flotation is not required. However, when you are taking on an adventure into moving water with a loaded boat, extra flotation can be a real life saver. Bow and stern flotation as well as center flotation can be added. Covers can also be used to keep the water out of your canoe but they don't necessarily give your canoe buoyancy. Flotation can be held in place with inlets mounted on the gunwales, and or with D rings mounted to the hull on the sides and bottom of your canoe.
Helmets
We wear them now while we ride our bikes. We should also be wearing them as the class of water increases to III and above, and some could easily argue that class II warrants a helmet. Things can go wrong fast and a little protection for your head can go a long way. The gear sites listed have a range to choose from both for quality and affordability.
These are but a few of the helmets to take a look at for your protection.
email your suggestions, requests to info@canoeadventures.net
