North Water
Morgan Goldie, the sales manager at North Water, provides me with essential paddling accessories.
I use the North Water Sea Tec Quick Release Towline — the most useful towing system I’ve seen on the market thus far. It’s easy to use and quite comfortable. It has a solid quick-release steel carabiner to hook on the boat you’re towing and it’s made of a high-quality, floating 30-foot rope with a bungee section for a softer pull. You can also use it as a deck mounted system if you like.
Even on paddling solo I found good use for carrying the tow belt on steep landings, as I hooked myself to the boat to not let it go before I eventually managed to partially unload the bow and cockpit of the heavy expedition kayak and to pull it up the shore. Or just in case I would be swimming longer I would maybe hook myself to the boat.
Morgan created a special "Black Sea Kayaking Belt" for me. Thanks, Morgan!
Other North Water gear that I happily use on my trips include:
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This small deck bag is great to store gloves, sunscreen, hoods and/or snacks handy without having to open the spray deck or day hatch or cramming stuff into your PFD. It’s large enough to accommodate the odds and ends you need during the day but not too big so that I gets in the way sitting on the front deck.
This bag fits neatly in the unused space under your front deck. I use it to store food and other nick knacks that I may need during the day.
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These bags are great to store flares, repair tape, binoculars, spare batteries (for my camera and GPS), a knife, extra "Reed" hatch covers and my peeing device – a much needed (but little discussed item) that I use on long expeditions. These bags are particularly useful when you travel alone since you don’t have to get out or land to get at the item you need. The bags are easy to install, and easy to clip on and off. I added some drainage holes on the bottom since the bags are not waterproof. So if your cockpit is flooded it would take a while until they are draining without holes.
The simple but essential bungee paddle leash keeps your paddle to the boat, which where it belongs! Its standard equipment when I’m alone or when the water is rough. It doesn’t get in the way and, better yet, it’s could save your life if you capsize and your boat begins to drift away since the paddle acts as an anchor and should allow you to get back to your boat. This is also a great item with a lightweight surf ski as they can bounce right along with such an attachment.
To transport my paddles (Padded Paddle Bags) and gear (Beaching Bag) I never leave home without these great bags.
Morgan’s great North Water products make an expedition kayaker’s life much easier – especially a solo traveler like me!
Thank you, Morgan, for such terrific gear!