You know the kid who always has to jump in a puddle (even when wearing shows and socks) or the one who begs, “just a little while longer.” when it’s time to leave the beach? That kids is – and always has been – ME!
And weather doesn’t really matter – sunny or stormy, hot or cold. With the right clothes, equipment and attitude, all days on the water are great days.
A recent Sunday morning delivered a glassy river paddle and a sense of happy wonder. It was truly a zen-like experience. And I was paddling my Starboard Inflatable 12′ 6″ Touring board with ZEN construction.
A few days later I paddled upstream in wind and a strong, rippling current. That intense effort switched to the bumpy goodness of a down stream down-winder all the way back.
Lake time can be no less diverse. My favorite local lake is bordered by Elk Lake Resort and boasts a number of great beaches to launch from. Early morning can usually guarantee a calm 4.5 mile meander around the perimeter of the lake.
By mid afternoon the wind fills in, often sporadic or gusty. Early morning thermals drift like lazy bubbles on a hot, summer day. The air ahead of these thermal bubbles is light and variable. But most afternoons these thermals create gusts–called cat’s-paws–50% higher than the true wind speed. Cat’s-paws appear as rough, dark patches on the water.
Hold on for the quick acceleration and set your wing trim for a lift as the gust arrives. I am using my FreeWing AIR V2 (5M). It’s one of the toys that add to my wonderland of fun on the water. Check out the full array of Starboard wing options here!