The Hero is just plain fun.
I would also argue that for many in the Ottawa area, an excellent river runner for many kayakers looking to expand on the area's rivers.
Most people will argue that a bigger boat is better as that seems to be the trend over the past few years. However, I will make a few arguments for the defense of the Hero:
1. Control:
Due to the easy transition between a playboat and the Hero, many will feel a great sense of control. While the Hero will lack some speed, many will feel that the compensation in speed is greatly made up in the control that the paddler will have in any given rapid.
Photo By: Ray Canton
2. Versatility:
Transitioning between creeks and big water is a breeze in the Hero. The added volume gives you more confidence in big water than a traditional playboat while the length gives you mobility through tight boulder gardens.
Photo By: Ray Canton
3. Added Fun
For advanced paddlers the Hero adds an extra element of excitement to your home base class 5 run.
Photo By: Joanne Tognarelli
Last summer I was fortunate enough to prototype the 2011 Hero with Clay Wright on the Raquette (a tight and steep class 5 section in Colton NY). I also had a chance to try the Hero on the Green River Narrows. While both rivers provide a challenge at any time, the added excitement of the Hero boosted my enjoyment factor.
In fact, I find I am now more excited to paddle the Hero than my playboat or creekboat.
I would recommend this boat to paddlers looking to add some spice to their local runs AND those who are transitioning into more river running from playboating.
Don't let the size deter you. In fact, control will play a huge role in the transition in to river running for most. Also, unless you are doing expedition paddling or consistently running steep, large drops, a big boat may just inhibit your paddling on harder rivers.
Have fun!!
Some rivers to check out in your new Hero? Upper Petawawa, Kipawa, Rouge and many more!!
See attached a pick from Hell or High Water. While the Hero is not an ideal racing boat, it was so fun to run multiple laps of the river in (as you can see by my cheery look!!).
Photo By: Julie Jenkinson HOHW 3
Photo By: Joanne Tognarelli
Photo By: Ray Canton
My condolences go to you and your family. Thank you for creating this blog. I too am 5"3 115 pds and small framed. After reading several Sea Kayaker magazines I became frustrated at the lack of kayak reviews reviewed by women. A few were reviewed by women but they were heavier/taller.
ReplyDeleteKayak Reviews