Just returned from the 2012 Bay Area Paddlefest.
I am now convinced that events like this are the least effective way to excite people about our sport we love. I watched enthusiastic newcomers leave tired, hungry and confused. It made me sad. Thirty to forty reps all incredibly skillful at showing their products while delicately pointing out a few "items of curiosity" about their competition might not be the best recipe for a newcomer. We mean well. I think all of us reps would like to spend more time training retail staff about products so they can be the best help to the new paddler. The retailer is in the best position to help a new paddler because they know the local waters and can show the products best suited for different locales. I was confused that many of the store employees did not even try the new products that so many companies brought to the beach. There certainly was enough time!
If you are new and interested in getting involved in the wonders of the world of paddlesports I might humbly make some suggestions (ok maybe not as soft and tactful as I would like but this is a blog!)
1. Take a tour, social paddle, sunset paddle or paddling campout with friends or your favorite shop. Do this before a class so that you can just focus on the fun. Get hooked!
2. Think about what you want to do with this sport. Is there a picture in your head of yourself a year from now with your new kayak/canoe/sup? Tell friends, trusted shop employees and family about this "vision". Maybe they have some insight. A good model that helps me ask customers what is important to them is:
F.I.T For you (size, skills, aggressiveness, carrying convenience, pocket book)Intended Purpose (what are you doing with this boat--camping, fitness, day, tour, fish, etc)
Type of Water (make sure your craft is safe and equipped for your preferred waterways)
3. Take a class or work on skills you have picked up from your trusted paddlers. Make sure you keep #2 in mind but be open to gaining new aspirations.
4. Rent some boats. Paddle. Paddle. Paddle. Paddle. Paddle. Paddle. read. Paddle. Paddle. Paddle. Be sure to mix 9 parts paddling to 1 part reading/computer "research". I know of a fellow rep who experimented one year by changing the entire internet content of one of his "items". He used friends from all over the country to post reviews and purchased professionals to also swing opinions and add content. Believe me, it happens all the time. Even in the magazines. Especially on the online forums. You can't believe everything you read and those who write it don't know who you are or what is important to you.
5. Buy a boat based upon your assessment with your new found skills once you feel you have reached a reasonable point on the accelerated portion of your "learning curve". Be open to selling this new boat in a year or two. You are not getting married to your first craft. You will only lose 20 to 30% of your investment after 2-3 years if you decide to part with your first boat. Better yet, keep your first boat for friends and family and add to your quiver.
Send the companies you patronized pics, opinions and suggestions regarding your new gear. We will listen and make improvements along the way.
