NRS Basic Gear

[RomanLA]

I'm going to pick up a couple sets of basic gear for students to use. Anyone have any experience with these?

NRS Basic Nylon Skirt - $46.95
http://www.nrsweb.com/shop/product.asp? ... eptid=1763" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

NRS Crew Universal PFD - $49.95
http://www.nrsweb.com/shop/product.asp? ... eptid=1682" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

PTK Kayak Paddle 45 degrees - $59.95
http://www.nrsweb.com/shop/product.asp? ... eptid=1648" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

I'm definitely open to suggestions about other inexpensive options. Thanks!

[Jaytee]

I have that skirt on my rec boat and it does a great job. Students only need to understand that just because it is a rec skirt it doesn't mean that it pops itself if you turn over. Depending on the boat I guess, but mine is VERY snug on the combing and still needs to be manually popped to wet exit.


Haven't tried the other stuff but would generally not think an offset paddle would be the way to start for students. Either a two-piece paddle that can be feathered or a 0 degree offset one piece paddle would seem much more appropriate for basic instruction.

[MikkiW]

Hey Roman,
I am no pro but would like to add my thoughts here for your consideration. I recently went on an ocean kayaking trip while in Alaska. The spray skirts used on their kayaks were a lot like the one you had pictured. They had suspenders and a draw cord to tighten or loosen so they could be adjusted for all sizes and shapes of paddlers. They were very comfortable, light and easy to use for the novice. You just slip them over your head after putting on your PFD, adjust the suspenders and tighten the draw string and you have the perfect fit for your size. That price is great for a PFD of good quality. On the paddles, I also would recommend a 2 piece paddle that can be adjusted to angle. One of the other paddlers, who was not experienced put theirs together with an offset and they were splashing water and going nowhere until their paddle was set straight. 2 piece paddles would also be easier to store and carry if you are taking multiple paddlers and boats out. Small loop bungee cords kept the pairs matched and organized without problems and the paddles were than stored in the cockpits out of harms way when not in use.

[Adam Willard]

Roman,
I would recommend calling Jeremy at OOO. A few years ago the Bayou Chapeter purchased several kayaks, paddles and life jackets. I had done a lot of online research to find out the answers to almost the same questions you are asking. I called OOO and ended up getting all the equipment we needed through them. I feel like they saved the club alot of money because there was no trial and error with the equipment. We have used the equipment in clinics with no problems. Oh and on a side note their prices were better than online. Plus the customer service is always through the roof.