Any advice on white water supping down rivers? We're looking to paddle the Collie River from Wellington Dam and would love to hear from any one that has already tried it. We're looking at taking some inflatable 12'6'boards down, would these be too big? Is inflate pressure a factor? Is it going to hurt? Is it advisable to take a dispensable paddle?
I've watched footage of Kai Lenny do it and I imagine we would be similar except possibly for any of actually standing up.
I keep reading about white water paddling as I really would like to have a go at it when my skills improve.
Many suggest that wearing shin guards and knee guards is a good idea as when you fall from standing you bend your knees and land on your shins.
They also suggest wearing a helmet with a peak or visor to it as if you hit a rock it will protect your face.
In regard to paddles - all the things I read said that if you were not awesome at it, to just use a cheapy paddle until you are because you will break paddles.
Brittany Parker has some good stuff online about it. I follow her, Ken Hoeve and Kai Lenny on instagram.
There are also some good tutorial videos on you tube about using eddies etc on the board, getting across currents etc.
I'm really looking forward to seeing your updates about your trip. I'm jealous!
Also forgot to say - use flexible fins as if they hit rocks etc they will just bend and if they break they don't take your fin box with it.
Thanks, all valuable tips. It's going to be an experience and we expect an almost vertical learning curve. My biggest concern is going to be the cold, I am thinking there will be a need for some more than just reef booties
