Customer Reviews

Sea Kayaker's Savvy Paddler: More than 500 Tips for Better Kayaking

5 star:		(4)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I started paddling just 2 months ago and bought this book before my first venture on the water. After reading it I felt like I had a basic idea of the kinds of things that could happen to me and what I could do about them. It contains advice from many experienced paddlers who want to help you avoid their mistakes and have a great time paddling. Being new to the sport I didn't even know what questions to ask - this book covers topics I hadn't even thought about. It gives advice on the best fabric choices in clothes for the weather, what to pack on the boat, what to have waiting for you at the end of your trip (hot cocoa among other things), how to tie some basic knots, how to scare bears away, how to pee without leaving the kayak (valuable information for women - like me). It's interesting, fun to read and not at all didactic. It includes many tips for more experienced paddlers and I will reread it often as I advance in the sport. The tips are offered by paddlers who obviously love their sport and want to share their great time with everyone else.

As a kayak instructor, I highly recommend you purchase this book and keep it handy to read and review on a regular basis. It is not only great for beginners but also seasoned paddlers. One of the most overwhelming aspects of this sport is figuring out what gear you really need - especially when you see the price tags in all the "gucci" paddling stores these days. Doug Alderson brings kayaking back to basics by giving you hints on how you can enhance your kayaking kit with things from around the house or the dollar store. His tips are usually so simple they're ingenious. (Did you know that when Doug isn't paddling he's a high school industrial arts teacher?). Moreover, his advice on how to plan a trip, stay safe, and have a hassle free camping experience are by far the best I've seen, a testament to Doug's vast seakaying experience. I use this book as one of my main instructing references since students often ask me questions that are well covered in this book. The more I read it, the more I appreciate how much thought went into each paragraph and illustration.

Seakayaker's Savvy Paddler condenses many years of sea kayak paddling into a concise manual of how to make your paddling, easier, safer, cheaper and more enjoyable. You can read it from the inside out or from cover to cover. Either way, you will find succinct advice and short-snappy TIPS ready to put to good use in a brief paddle around the lake or an extended trip along the open coast. This book will help you do more with less and extend your enjoyment, safety and adventure while exploring in your seakayak.

This is a must have book of idea for paddlers who want to know more.
It's filled with worth while ideas ranging from safety to clothing. the ideas come in handy and give you insight as to how you can better yourself, your kayak and increase your fun.
Buy it, you won't be disappointed.

This is a collection of suggestions rather than a systematic discussion, not worth the money or time.