Category: Gear
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Vaikobi kit delivers on the DW
British weather. It’s one element that makes the Devizes to Westminster Canoe Race not just a 125-mile paddle but the “Canoeists Everest”. And it’s what defeats many paddlers who didn’t invest in quality clothing. On the 2013 edition of the race, almost 1/3 of competitors gave up when met with sub-zero temperatures and a bitter…
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Safety at sea: equipment
Safety equipment is no substitute for preparation, planning, skills, fitness and experience. Having these keeps you out of trouble and lets you deal with tougher conditions when things change for the worse. Most safety equipment is about getting help, but of course, it’s better not to get into such a situation in the first place.…
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All about my boat: Epic V8 GT surfski
When there are no footsteps to follow in, everything becomes a bit of an experiment, and that was certainly the case on my adventure. A surfski isn’t normally the kayak of choice for expeditions. In fact, before I set off I don’t think anyone had completed a self-supported expedition longer than a few days in…
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What do I carry in my PFD?
Anyone thinking about what they should carry in their PFD or how much you can fit in a vaikobi PFD? Read on… I use the vaikobi … While it’s not designed especially for expeditions, I like its lightweight build and the freedom of movement it gives you. It’s not too bulky but it still managed…
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Safety at sea: planning
While I don’t make long term plans for my trip, I don’t want it to seem like I have no regard for safety. Planning is obviously a crucial part of staying safe and I thought I’d share my process. Safety starts before you get on the water – preparation and planning are key. Each evening…
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How much kit can you fit in a surfski? (full kit list)
How does a surfski compare to a sea kayak in its ability to carry kit? Here is my full kit list from the first part of my expedition, which I carried in or on the epic V8 GT surfski that I used. I’ve included the make/model of kit for all the gear geeks out there!…
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What is a surfski?
Born on the beaches of South Africa and Australia, surfskis were originally used to save people struggling in the surf. Surfskis are open cockpit kayaks, meaning you sit on top of rather than inside the boat. Unlike sea kayaks, if you fall out you simply jump back on! These kayaks are called surfskis because of…