Paddling Gear

For the most part, the Troop will have what you need.  That said, your personal gear will fit you and by your personal gear. 

PFD

You can find a PFD for as low as $20.  Other PFDs are designed for easier paddling with large armholes that free up the arms and shoulders and are priced accordingly.  If you are getting something other than a universal PFD, you should head to your local outfitter and try on different PFDs to see what's available and what fits.  Honestly, a universal PFD is fine for the majority of what we will be doing. 

What to look for in a PFD:

• Type III or Level 70

• USCG Approved

• It MUST fit snuggly

Examples:

• cabelas.com/shop/en/bass-pro-shops-adult-universal-life-vest - $20 BassPro Universal PFD

• Costco sometimes has PFDs on sale

USCG Approval System

• Old USCG system uses a "Types" system

  • Type III is what is needed for Canoeing

  • Type III has 15.5 pounds of buoyancy for an adult

  • Intended for calm, inland water or where there is a good chance of quick rescue. Inherent buoyant PFDs of this type will turn some unconscious wearers to a face-up position in the water, but the turning is not as pronounced as a Type I. This type of inflatable turns as well as a Type I foam PFD.

• New USCG and Transport Canada (Canadian regulatory agency) uses a "Performance Level" system

  • Level 70 Buoyancy Aid: Equivalent to the old system’s Type III PFDs. They are the most common PFDs worn by recreational boaters. No self-turning ability.

  • Level 70 Buoyancy Aid provided 70 newtons of buoyancy (about 15.5 pounds)

  • Change is still "new" (2014) - See: federalregister.gov

• Older designs will have Type rating while newer ones may have the Performance rating

  • Either system is legal to use, as long as the PFD is in working condition

Paddle

Please note that a paddle should be properly sized for each paddler.  This is often overlooked in Scouting, since Scouts come in all different sizes and tend to grow.  It is difficult to outfit every sized paddle for every possible mix of canoers.  It is easy to outfit yourself with properly sized gear. 

If you are interested in Paddle, you can go to REI and try out several paddles and get them properly sized.  The sell Carlisle Standard Canoe Paddle where are great for Scout use and come in different sizes.   You can also look at the really nice wood and carbon fiber paddles they have on display, but we DON'T recommend outfitting Scouts with a high-end paddle due to their insane prices and potential to break. 

Paddle Sizing 

• bendingbranches.com/blogs/resources/canoe-paddle-sizing-guide - seat to nose method

• bendingbranches.com/blogs/resources/how-to-size-a-solo-canoe-paddle - Solo Paddling

Example:

• REI - Carlisle Standard Canoe Paddle

• nrs.com/carlisle-standard-paddle/pxiu Carlisle Standard Canoe Paddle but with standard (insane) shipping surcharge

• sportsmans.com Carlisle Standard T Grip Canoe Paddle that sometimes go on sale - pick up in Everett 

• Bending Branches 

  • Fantastic wood paddles 

  • High end = expensive

  • Used by one of our Scoutmasters

  • Sold at REI

  • Only consider this if you are an experienced paddler and intend to do a lot of paddling 

Double-Bladed Paddle

There is an argument for using a double-bladed paddle of solo canoeing.  In fact, one of our Canoe Adult Leaders uses one.  It allows him to move around and maneuver quickly, which is important for our Water Safeties.  It is non traditional and gets water in the canoe.  These are NOT recommended for Scouts.   

You can read about the pros and cons for double bladed paddles at bendingbranches.com/blogs/resources/paddles-solo-canoeist.