Here is a random array of equipment and gear I'm using. Its not meant specifically for the training, but may help if I mention something by name or at the very least, be able to give reactions on it.
OC-1:
Hukie V1-R. Usually rigged at the most stable setting, though that may change as my comfort level goes up.
OC-6:
Bradley Racers and Lightnings: The club has a few Bradley Racers and one Bradley Lighting. The lighting is significantly lighter than the rest, and has a must newer ama. This helps it glide a little better, but on any given day, it really depends on the crews paddling.
Paddles:
Kialoa Nani:
My first paddle. It's a great blade. I used it all the way up to a few months ago. I'd still be using it if I didn't get the Nehu as a gift. Of the three "beginner" blades Kialoa makes, I believe its the best. Its the right combination of stability, sturdiness and looks.
Kialoa Nehu Hybrid:
My first and only hybrid paddle. I was a bit apprehensive about trying a hybrid blade. I got this one as a surprise gift, so of course I had to give it a shot. I can say that, at least for me, getting a good catch is much easier with a hybrid. The thin edge and stiff face slices through the water much more cleanly. That's not to say that you can't get cavitation/ventilate with it. I still do plenty of that, specially when I'm tired. It is a bit more delicate though. I have no idea how to repair it if/when it gets dinged.
Malama Steering Blade:
My second paddle. Its worth every penny. The price of the paddle itself isn't any more than a Kialoa steering blade, but the price of shipping it from Maui to the mainland is what really drives up the price. The finish is awesome, construction is strong, and the handle is the best part. It is very ergonomic and fits your hand perfectly. It's hard going back to a Kialoa ( or a Grey Owl) handle after using this one for a while.
Steering blades in general seem to take quite a bit of punisment, and my Malama seems to be no exception. I've had to do some first-aid on it through the season. Recently took it completely offline to refurbish it. I'm hopping to have it back and ready ASAP.
Mudbrookwoods Cedar Teardrop:
This is not to be confused with Mudbrook Racing paddles. This is the manufacturer that makes the paddles for Mudbook Racing, but using his own designs. Its a nice blade. Very strong and the finish is good. The price can't be beat. Unfortunately I only use it for OC-1, and I haven't had much of a chance to really put it through its paces.
Hydration:
Camelbak Lumbar Hydration:
My go-to hydration solution for longer practices. It holds enough liquid for a 2-3hr practice, but just barely. If the practice was any harder or longer, I would probably switch to a back-pack style pack that holds more water. When I got the pack that wasn't an option because I used to paddle exclusively with an inflatable PFD.
PFD:
West Marine Inflatable PFD:
When I first started paddling, I was not a good swimmer ( or much of a swimmer at all) so I wore this PFD. I've only had occasion to pop it once and it worked well. Its a good option for paddlers that are uncomfortable in big water. The position takes a little getting used to, but after a practice or two it's no problem. It does tend to wear on your jersey and neck, depending on how you wear it.
Steirns Aquous Paddle Sport PFD:
Recently got this PFD for my OC-1 time. I wanted a PFD that didn't require inflation. I'm currently planning on exploring my balance on the OC-1, which of course means that I'll be spending quite a bit of time falling into the water. To make that process as painless as possible, I decided getting a reusable PFD was a good idea. I tried paddling in it once so far, and it didn't impeded my paddling at all. The only negative is that it does tend to trap the heat, so this could be an issue in a long, hot paddle.
GPS:
Garmin Forerunner 310xt:
Just ordered to help track workouts. I was using my iphone with a waterproof case and various apps. Unfortunately the reliability and battery time were unsatisfactory. This was compounded because I was using an iphone that did not have a data plan attached to it. More on this when I receive it.
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