On October 8th the Great Lakes paddling community suffered on incomprehensible loss when Nick Walton succumbed to hypothermia in a downwind race on Lake Michigan. Nick was a professional canoe racer and over the past couple of years had discovered a love for surfski racing. You can read his full obituary here I was a […]
Safety
Updated Guidance on Cold Water Paddling
A few years ago, I published a blog covering everything I could think of around cold water paddling. I was then fortunate to add a great addendum from a customer and fellow cold water paddler who has been at it for many more years than me. But as with all things, it is an evolution, […]
A Very Cold Virtual Chattajack
A group of hard core Northern Michigan paddlers decided to organize for a “Virtual Chattajack” this year. I was fortunate enough to get the blow by blow details from a great friend and fellow paddler Billy Bellinger. Below is his story, broken down into 4 parts. I wanted to share this not only because it […]
One Year Paddle Calendar
I’ve always been curious to see what a one year view of my paddling looks like mapped out on a calendar. Finally with COVID-19 quarantine in effect, I’ve had the extra time to put it together. Winter paddling may not be for everyone, and it is certainly not without risks, but this past year has […]
PFD Overview & Understanding: ISO versus USCG
Summarizing the Key Points about the PFDs We Sell I recently posted a Facebook update to let everyone know I’m now carrying the Nelo branded personal flotation device (PFD). This post generated a lot of discussion around Newtons and ISO versus US Coast Guard certification. While I am far from an expert in […]
