Editorial: Getaways - North and South

December 2004-January 2005

This is an article from WaveLength Magazine, available in print in North America and globally on the web.
To download a pdf copy of the magazine click here: > DOWNLOAD

by Alan Wilson

In this issue we’re pleased to shine a light on some of the trends and developments in paddling. We start with a look at the kayaking component of adventure racing, from the viewpoint of race organizer Bryan Tasaka, with great photos by Tony Austin, (including the cover shot). And we learn from Multi-Sport athlete Dave Norona why wing paddles are powering a growing number of racers.

We see the technology of thermoforming—creating hybrid composite kayaks— through the experienced eyes of Tom Derrer (Eddyline Kayaks). Columnist Bryan Nichols shows us the virtues of sit-on-tops and reviews the Hobie Mirage. Our newest columnist, Adam Bolonsky from Gloucester, Massachusetts writes about the growing popularity of inexpensive, recreational kayaks. From Florida, Capt. Wright tells us how fishermen are turning on to kayaks in a big way.

Barbara Sherrill of Outdoor Research talks about new gear for women, columnist Alex Matthews reports on a new tech top, and Peter Ronald of the Georgia Strait Alliance offers us a peek into cultural renewal through First Nations tourism training. We also learn about new techniques in kayak instruction from Michael Pardy of SKILS. And Reed Waite of Washington Water Trails Association brings us up to speed on the remarkable growth in recreational water trails in Washington State.

From the west coast, columnist Dan Lewis tells us how we have nuclear testing to ‘thank’ for the return of sea otters to the waters of Vancouver Island, and columnist Alexandra Morton relates the latest on life in the Broughton Archipelago.

There’s a lot going on in the paddling world, not least the many recent innovations in boats and gear. Have a look at Boats, Gear & Gifts, p.34 for some great new products. Mind you, we’re not suggesting you abandon your ‘tried and true’. We know paddlers bond with reliable gear and look after it—it could save us one day. On the other hand, if you are in the market, you can check out our on-line ‘What’s New Directory’ for these and other innovative products, hotlinked to manufacturers’ sites.

• 2005 is WaveLength’s 15th year! We hope many of you will help us celebrate this milestone by taking a subscription for the year ahead. Or give a gift subscription to your favorite paddler. Check out the great prize available. Both giver and receiver are entered in the draw (two entries each for a two year sub).

• And happy 10th birthday to www.WaveLengthMagazine.com. Back in 1994, thanks to the ingenuity of Howard Stiff, WaveLength added an on-line version of the magazine, extending our readership around the world.