Inflatable Canoe Tips
An inflatable canoe has truly become the right alternative to high-cost hardwood canoes. It is not only cheaper but also makes for easy transportation and storage. What could be easier than simply carrying it in its deflated form to the waters and then inflating it as required? In its deflated form, the canoe is easy to store wherever convenient. And though it all sounds very simple, there are a few guidelines which must be followed for the proper use of such a canoe. Here are a few tips in this regard:
An inflatable canoe should never be overfilled and should have just the slightest amount of give in it. The air should be filled in a clockwise pattern around the canoe till it starts taking shape and then filled backwards to the desired pressure levels of that particular canoe.
One of the important tips is to know that air pressure in the chambers gets affected by changes in temperature. If you have inflated your canoe in the cool air of early morning, be prepared to let out some air from different points during the course of the day when the temperature increases. This is because the air in the chambers will expand and increase the pressure due to the rising temperature and this runs the risk of over-pressurized chambers which may explode if struck by any sharp object.
Punctures or leaks are the main concerns in an inflatable canoe and it is necessary to take proper precautions. Special care should be taken while carrying spears, diving knives, fishing hooks or any other sharp objects which may pierce the boat. Even dull matter like oars or ropes can cause damage or abrasion if left to rub against the coating material for a long time.
While docking, be aware of any sharp metal or wood and do not drag the canoe over shells or rocks while on a beach.
Rinsing out your canoe after every use is of prime importance as sand or gravel can plug the air valves and even cause abrasions.
Just keeping these few tips in mind will help you put your canoe to optimum use.
In: Articles · Tagged with: hardwood canoes