A version of this discussion just took place on the RICKA Flatwater Message Board. Paddle Floats - The inflatable floats have greater buoyancy, which translates into more support, i.e. stability, for self rescues. However, the hard ones are quicker and a valuable back-up for re-enter and roll. They also are adequate for lighter, more agile paddlers' self rescues. All that said, perhaps the most valuable use for inflatable paddle floats is for repairing damaged boats. This is especially true when paddling in groups, where paddle float rescues are not generally needed. Inflated paddle floats can fix broken seats, replace lost hatches and provide buoyancy and structure to damaged kayaks, especially when the damaged section is filled with the entire groups inflated paddle floats. Finally, paddle floats, especially the inflatable kind provide advantages for towing somewhat incapacitated paddlers. The paddle floats can be placed on both ends of the casualty's paddle to provide much greater stability for that paddler. The somewhat incapacitated paddler can then hold onto the paddle or it can be lashed onto the deck of the kayak like outrigger, sponsons with a stirrup or contact tow. Of course, truly incapacitated paddlers require another paddler along side for assistance. However, it is much harder to tow two paddlers than one for any kind of distance.
