new canoe advice

eggor · 06-18-2005

morrrrnin,

I just discovered this forum, I should probably be asking this question on the other board about equipment. But, it looks like this board is much more active.

Several years ago we moved to house that has a small lake nearby. My wife really wanted a canoe. So a few years ago I bought her a fiberglass canoe. it prolly wayed in @90 lbs and she couldn't move it herself.

Last year, she bought a We-Noh-Nah(sp) that weighed in at 60? She can't lift that one very well(bad back and small arms). Now she wants to buy another canoe. I think its an Old Town Solo, supposed to wiegh about 30 lbs.

This is getting to get pretty old, 3 canoes in only 2 years

and i don't want to be shooting for 4 if this one doesn't work out. We are spending close to 600 from what she said for the new one.

Is this gonna be a good fit? Or.. Should she be looking for different brand?

Thanks,

Scott

WhiteLightning · 06-20-2005

Are you using the canoe for whitewater, or just in the lake? Maybe try an inflatable, it might weigh less if this is a concern.

ChrisKelly · 06-20-2005

Just saw your message. I understand the facts to be:
1. The boat will be used on a small lake where you have a place; not for portaging on trips.

2. The boat wil be used on flatwater, not whitewater.

I have a few questions. Are you looking for a solo or a tandem boat? Is performance (that means speed and/or turning ability) a consideration? Does she want to fish out of it? How does she feel about kneeling rather than sitting in the boat? Will she need to load the boat on your car by her self? How often will she lift the boat ouit of the water? Do you plan to use the boat for camping? Is a used boat ok?

If yuo would rather, you can e-mail me directly and not bother all these Colorado kayak adrenelin junkies.
Chris Kelly
ckelly1022@aol.com