PaddleXaminer is a veteran owned publication based in Los Angeles, California. We provide stories, gear reviews, and news for adventurers on and off the water.
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Photo: Ismail Niyax at Unsplash
The Division of Boating and Waterways (DBW) announced plans for this year’s control efforts for aquatic invasive plants in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta and its southern tributaries. Consistent with COVID-19 safety protocols, DBW personnel started herbicide treatments today to help control several invasive plants found in the Delta.
Treatment start dates and treatment sites may change depending on weather conditions, plant growth and movement, waterway traffic, location of sensitive species, presence of sensitive crops in adjacent lands, and other conditions.
“Invasive plants displace native plants in the Delta, create hazards for boaters and obstruct water ways and irrigation systems. DBW is putting technology and resources to work to limit these impacts,” said DBW’s Acting Deputy Director Ramona Fernandez. “We work collaboratively and in cooperation with the public and our local, state and federal partners who help us manage this challenge.”
The invasive plants include water hyacinth, South American spongeplant, Uruguay water primrose, Alligator weed, Brazilian waterweed, curlyleaf pondweed, Eurasian watermilfoil, hornwort (aka coontail), and fanwort.
Aquatic invasive plants have no known natural controls. Continued warm temperatures help the plants grow at high rates. Plants are also known to form dense mats of vegetation creating safety hazards for boaters, obstructing navigation channels, marinas and irrigation systems. Due to their ability to rapidly spread to new areas, it is likely that the plants will never be eradicated from Delta waters. Therefore, DBW’s program works to control rather than eradicate the plants. The division works with local, state, and federal entities to better understand the plants and implement new integrated control strategies to increase efficacy. Public engagement is also key in DBW’s efforts.
All herbicides used in the program are registered for aquatic use with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the California Department of Pesticide Regulation.
Treated areas will be monitored to ensure herbicide levels do not exceed allowable limits and follow EPA-registered label guidelines. The public may view the public notices, treatment area maps and sign up to receive weekly updates on this year’s treatment season and public opportunities on DBW’s website.
Below is a list of proposed control actions for the 2021 treatment season.
Floating Aquatic Vegetation Control Program
Water hyacinth, South American spongeplant, Uruguay water primrose and alligator weed.
Herbicide Control
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Treatment Period
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Select Area 1 Sites and Areas 2-4: March 19, 2021 – Nov. 30, 2021
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Note all Area 1 Sites: north of Hwy 12, Glyphosate and Imazamox are only being used.
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Type of Herbicides: In areas 2-4 Glyphosate, 2,4-D, Diquat, Imazamox or Penoxsulam.
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Potential Treatment Areas: Initially in and/or around, but not limited to the following areas: San Joaquin River, Old River, Middle River, Fourteen Mile Slough, and Piper Slough.
Mechanical Harvesting (If necessary)
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Harvesting Dates: March 2021 – April 2021 and July 2021 – Dec. 2021
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Mechanical Harvesting Sites: Select areas of the Delta with high infestations or coverage of water hyacinth. See map for potential mechanical harvesting control areas.
Submersed Aquatic Vegetation Control Program
Brazilian Waterweed, curlyleaf pondweed, Eurasian watermilfoil, coontail/hornwort and fanwort.
Herbicide Control
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Treatment Period: Starting March 19, 2021 through Nov. 30, 2021, treatment period based upon DBW field survey data, water temperatures and fish surveys.
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Type of Herbicide: Fluridone or Diquat.
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Potential Treatment Areas: In and/or around the following areas (individual areas will be noticed prior to treatment application):
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Anchorages, boat ramps and marinas: B & W Resort, Delta Marina Rio Vista, Hidden Harbor Resort, Korth’s Pirates Lair, New Hope Landing/Wimpy’s Marina, Owl Harbor, Oxbow Marina, Rivers End, Spindrift Marina, St. Francis Yacht Club, Tiki Lagoon, Turner Cut Resort, Vieira’s Resort, Village West Marina, and Willow Berm.
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Near Old River: Cruiser Haven, Delta Coves, Diablo Ski Club, Discovery Bay, Hammer Island, Piper Slough, Quin’s Island, Sandmound Slough, Taylor Slough, Italian Slough, and Kings Island.
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Sacramento Area: French Island, Long Island Slough, Prospect Island, Snug Harbor, The Meadows, and Washington Lake.
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Stockton Area: Atherton Cove, Calaveras River, Fourteenmile Slough, Mosher Slough, and Windmill Cove.
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Antioch Area: Winter Island and Emerson Slough
Mechanical Harvesting
This type of control method is not used for submersed aquatic vegetation. These plants spread by fragmentation. Cutting the plants back exacerbates the problem, as shreds of the plants float away and re-propagate.
DBW works with local, state and federal entities to better understand the plants and implement new integrated control strategies to increase efficacy.
Last year, DBW treated 1,869 acres of floating aquatic vegetation and 2,056 acres of submersed aquatic vegetation. No mechanical harvesting was conducted. A combination of herbicide, biological and mechanical control methods were used to help control invasive plants at high priority sites in the Delta.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, DBW has provided training to staff to help reduce the risk of exposure to the virus while conducting treatments. As the state continues to issue guidance on preparing and protecting all Californians from the pandemic, the California Department of Parks and Recreation is monitoring the situation closely and is following guidance provided by the Governor’s Office and the California Department of Public Health, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services, and local public health departments.
Funding for DBW’s AIPCP comes from the Harbors and Watercraft Revolving Fund, which receives revenues from boaters’ registration fees and gasoline taxes.
In 1982, California state legislation designated DBW as the lead state agency to cooperate with other state, local and federal agencies in controlling water hyacinth in the Delta, its tributaries, and the Suisun Marsh. The Egeria Densa Control Program was authorized by law in 1997 and treatment began in 2001. In 2012, spongeplant was authorized for control upon completion of the biological assessment. In 2013, DBW was able to expand its jurisdiction to include other AIPs, and since then other plants such as Uruguay water primrose, Eurasian watermilfoil, Carolina fanwort, coontail/hornwort, and Alligator weed have been added to the AIPCP program.
To report sightings, subscribe for program updates or for more information regarding the control program, connect with DBW online at dbw.parks.ca.gov/AIS, via email at [email protected] or by phone (888) 326-2822.
PaddleXaminer is featuring the Hala Rado in a series of articles testing the Rado in different situations such as on rivers and lakes, on the same rivers but at different flow levels, and more. This is the first article in the series.
While it’s getting close to the end of river season for whitewater paddling, with the excellent snowpack we received in Colorado, the season for certain rivers, such as the Arkansas, have been extended. PaddleXaminer’s favorite, or more appropriately nogistalic, river section is the milk run from Wilderness Aware Rafting to Ruby Mountain State Park. This is roughly six miles on the river which can typically be done in about an hour, a bit faster if flows are over 2000s cfs.
I say nogistic because this is the first river I ever paddleboarded back in July 2016. While that was only three years, it feels light-years away from what I’ve learned as a paddler. I’m not an expert and I won’t be winning any races anytime soon, but I love the sport and want to learn all I can about it to become a better paddler and serve as an ambassador for the sport.
Me and my trusty Hala Rado.
Back in 2016, I was using the Hala Straight-Up. This board had two 3” fixed fins along with a standard fin box. I don’t recall what the flow was, but I remember it was moving pretty good. I fell in a bunch, and have one scar on my left shin as a reminder. The lesson I learned on that trip was, beware of fin strikes!
What is a fin strike? It’s when your fin hits a rock or other debris in the water propelling the rider forward like superman when you least expect it.
Fast-forward three years to 2019, running the milk run at 1000 cfs, definitely has potential for fin strikes. Enter the Hala Rado with Stompboxtm. The Stompbox is a spring-load fin box which allows the fin to retract up into the board when it strikes debris in the water. While doing the milk run this time, I encountered zero fin strikes. I definitely felt the fin hit debris a few times on my run but the Stompbox performed just as it should. This is why I love Hala; they innovate!
And away I go!
The first ten minutes of the milk run I’ve nicknamed “The meat grinder” because you’re thrown into the toughest section right out of the gate! There are rocks and small drops to navigate, and they come one right after the other. In flows over 2000 cfs it can be tough to handle at times for the inexperienced paddler. For me, I love it because it presents different challenges at different flows.
At higher flows (greater than 2000 cfs), the flow of the river is fast and unrelenting. You have to be on top of your game to avoid taking a swim. In lower flows (less than 2000 cfs), the lower flow provides more time to maneuver but also present new obstacles which were way under water in the higher flows.
This was my first time on the milk run riding my Hala Rado. I was excited to see how it would perform on a river section I’ve done so many times before. The Rado has river rocker, which I really allows the paddler to ride the wave trains smoothly. The Stompbox came in handy a few times as the flow this run was right at 1000 cfs.
Pro tip: if you have fixed fins and the water is uber shallow, move to the front of the board to pop the fin up slightly. This can make a difference and is a technique I’ve used in the past.
After reaching Fisherman’s Bridge there is another 1.5 miles until you reach Ruby Mountain Campground.
Pro tip: If shuttling, buy a state parks pass because it’s good for Ruby Mountain. They cost $80 for a year while a day pass is $8. You save money after 10 visits to any state park over the course of a year.
There are two Class II sections on the last 1.5 miles; a screaming right-hand turn and Rookie Rock. I’ve never been able to navigate Rookie Rock without falling in or at least going to my knees before this run! The lower flow helped there’s no doubt, but I feel the Rado’s design also had something to do with my success!
#Rivers #HalaRado #WhitewaterPaddling #StandupPaddling #HalaGear #Colorado
Smart and useful – that’s how I’d describe L’il Suckers. L’il Suckers are neoprene donuts which can be used to keep most sized water bottles in place. Simply slide the L’il Sucker over your drink at the bottom and put it on any non-porous surface, and the L’il Sucker should stay put.
When I first saw Lilsuckers at the Outdoor Retailer Convention in Denver this summer, I wasn’t sure what to think. The sales representative asked me to try to lift the water bottle on their display, so I did. In doing so I nearly lifted the entire display up, partially knocking it over!
Immediately I thought this product would be great for paddling SUP. I chose the small and medium size models to test out on my paddleboard.
Field testing the L’il Sucker
I took my Hala Nass out on Lake Dillon in early August for a morning paddle before the wind picked up. I brought a small and medium size L’il Sucker using the small sucker on an average size water bottle and the medium sucker for a Nalgene (32oz, 1L). I cruised on the lake encountering some wind and waves from boats, neither of which knocked over the water bottles on my two hour paddle. It was relatively easy to pull up both water bottles to take a drink and put them back securely my SUP.
The next weekend I tested the L’il Sucker on class II/III rapids while attached to my SUP. To hedge against losing a water bottle I attached a string to my Nalgene and tied it to one of the D-rings on my Hala Straight-Up; I’m glad I did. Once I hit the rapids, it didn’t take long for the L’il Sucker to lose grip during the rapids section. I’m not sure if the inventor envisioned using a L’il Sucker on a SUP while going down class III rapids, but I had to test the full limits of the sucker.
Overall, it’s a great product with multiple uses for boating, paddling on lakes or Class I river sections.
No cup-holder available? No problem with the L’il Sucker!
They come in a two sizes to fit most water bottles, coffee cups, or squirt bottles. The L’il suckers have standard designs and the company also offers custom designs. If you’re a recreational paddler looking for a quick and easy solution to safely secure a water bottle to your paddleboard, kayak or canoe, the L’il Sucker is a great option worth trying out.
Not everyone is able to enjoy balmy weather and year round paddling. With proper preparation, however, a drop in temperature does not have to keep you off the water. Few paddlers have more knowledge and experience in the cold water than the Canadians and I was able to catch up with Ryan Knysh recently to speak about cold weather paddling and what he does to prepare.
Are you able to paddle year round?
We actually cannot paddle year round, our local lake is frozen from roughly November – April at the earliest. It is always cold water and the majority of our paddling is on ice-covered water.
What is the coldest air temperature you have paddled in?
We get down to -40C (-40F), but the coldest paddling I’ve done is around -10C (14F).
What are some tips you’d like to share when it comes to cold weather paddling?
The biggest thing is preparation. You have to be ready for any type of scenario that you may be involved in. The key to my own personal paddling is always to have trust in my ability, hopefully I’m not going to go for a swim, but if I do, you have to plan for the worst. So no matter what, I’m wearing boots and a wetsuit or a wetsuit top at the very least. Definitely a PFD and a leash are a necessity. The biggest thing is I always carry a phone in a [waterproof] case, because chances are, I’m attached to my board. But if something were to happen where I couldn’t paddle anymore, at least I have the ability to call and get someone else out there to help me. In my opinion, it is more dangerous to be out there without any communication than anything else.
A PFD won’t save you in cold water because you are dead either way [drowning or hypothermia induced drowning]. Wearing a leash is key, because you can be attached to your board and crawl back on it, that is the biggest life-saving tip there is.
Rivers are a different story. We do paddle rivers, especially when it’s cold. On fast flowing rivers a leash can sometimes be a hinderance, so you have to weigh your options. If there is a huge possibility of falling, you have to think hard and possibly make the decision not to go.
Beltpack PFD’s are the most common PFD worn by stand up paddlers. Do you wear something different in cold water?
I still wear the waist pack, again it isn’t going to do anything for you. Hypothermia will set in in almost under two minutes. Getting back on your board is key and having a wetsuit top will keep you somewhat warm. I have worn a full suit before, but it isn’t pleasant. I normally wear a 1m pant and then a wetsuit top.
How thick is your wetsuit top?
3mm, because I don’t plan on falling. But if we are river surfing or doing something when it is really cold I will wear a 5mm.
Ryan on his way to the lake for a cold weather paddling session.
Is there any other gear you recommend?
I always wear a beanie and a Patagonia windbreaker. The windbreaker is nice because if you fall it is not going to weigh you down and it keeps the wind from cutting through you. Again, the air temperature is cold. Even wetsuit mitts, .5mm or 1mm thick, are a good option for keeping the wind off you.
What about board maintenance and performance in the cold?
Infinity has a hatchet nose construction, just kidding! Joking aside, Infinity does incorporate Teflon into the nose of their boards and I do have to plow through a bit of ice here and there, so having a board that is durable is important. Inflatables are the best for really cold weather. They will change, for example, if you pump one up to 15 PSI it will lose 3-5 PSI when you place it in sub-zero water. But nothing changes performance wise on my hard board and I’m still able to train just as hard – summer or winter.
Water is essential for an athlete’s performance and health. Drinking too little water or losing too much through sweat can decrease your ability to train well and recover properly. Did you know water provides more to the body than just hydration. It is also a transporter, supplying muscles with nutrients needed during training. It rids the body of waste products from high intensity training. It also keeps the body cool, evaporating heat through sweat.
The body is about 60% water. The brain is about 70% water. As little as a 2% loss of body fluids from training or going into training when you are already dehydrated hurts performance with decreased ability to concentrate, fatigue and poor recovery. Hydration needs during paddling depend on different factors like an athlete’s pre-training or pre-competition hydration status. Some paddlers sweat more than others. Larger athletes tend to sweat more than smaller athletes. Endurance athletes sweat earlier in exercise and in larger volumes. Sweat losses are higher in hot, humid conditions and increase as exercise intensity increases.
Hydration during training or competition
Research recommends a sport nutrition drink with a 4-8% carbohydrate solution. Juices are not recommended. They are 9-12% carbohydrate solution and can cause gastric distress. Sport drinks rehydrate with water, electrolytes, and calories. Find what drinks work for you by experimenting during practice – not in competition. If you have a sensitive stomach, be aware of caffeine and fructose found in fruit, honey and high-fructose corn syrup.
SUP training ranging from 30-60 minutes at low to moderate intensity, drink water. If you train for more than 60 minutes, have a sports drink. Research recommends drinking about every 15-20 minutes, about 2-4 ounces each time. This requires a conscious effort. Following these recommendations may be a challenge when in a SUP race. That is why purpose built hydration packs are highly recommended.
Thirst is not a reliable cue to drink because thirst is suppressed with intense or exhaustive exercise. This is especially in the heat. Pay attention to body cues and signs like your mouth or throat feeling dry. Drink according to a plan.
Hydration after training or competition
After training, rehydrate for faster recovery. Athletes can create an individualized hydration plan by weighing themselves before and after training. For every pound lost, drink 2.5 cups of fluid. This is far more than one would voluntarily consume so it requires a conscious effort. Once athletes know their sweat rate, they can practice and experiment drinking early in training or competition to minimize dehydration, and comfortably drink larger volumes of fluid.
Replenish body fluids and carbohydrates within 30 minutes after training to maximize recovery. Sport nutrition research shows that a drink with a carbohydrate to protein ratio of 4:1 speeds recovery. The added carbohydrates replace the fuel used in training/competition and the protein repairs muscles that were broken down. Recovery drink examples include low fat chocolate milk, Recoverite, Ensure, Boost, Carnation instant breakfast, Resource, and Endurox R4.
Hydration status
An easy method to determine hydration status is urine color. When properly hydrated, urine is the color of lemonade, a pale yellow. Clear urine as a sign of hydration is a misconception. Dark yellow to brownish apple juice colored urine indicates dehydration. Dehydration is a loss of body fluid causing decreased blood volume, less blood pumped by the heart, decreased blood delivered to the exercising muscles and skin, increased waste products (i.e. lactic acid builds up), and an elevated body core temperature. With the rise in body core temperature, the body compensates by working harder and performance suffers.
Caffeine and alcohol
Caffeinated drinks, tea, coffee, and energy drinks are not ideal rehydration choices. Caffeine increases urine loss according to research studies. Rehydrate with non-caffeinated sport drinks first to restore fluid balance, then consider other beverage choices. Alcohol also increases urine loss. Alcoholic beverages of 3% or more by volume are not ideal for rehydration. Alcohol impairs glycogen recovery (glycogen is the storage form of carbohydrates) and slows soft tissue damage repair.
Hydration tips
Adequate hydration requires planning because thirst and voluntary consumption alone will not restore body fluid levels.
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Make hydrating a part of your practice and training.
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Begin drinking early in exercise. Practice taking large gulps about every 15-20 minutes.
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Have your favorite flavored sport drink at a cool temperature (~60 °F) to encourage plenty of hydration.
As the initial wave of standup paddling spread across the United States, there was an undeniable push of brands and designs from the West Coast towards inland markets. Fast forward to contemporary times and we are beginning to see the first signs of a ground swell reverberating back towards the coast. Inflatable SUP technology is undergoing a transformation and from their home in the iconic Rocky Mountain town of Steamboat Springs, Colorado, Hala Gear is leading the way for coastal dominance with their new Carbon Hybrid Hala Playa.
The Hala Playa comes equipped with an impressive array of features unique to Hala Gear. This inflatable SUP is truly the best in its class. The Hala Playa exceeds the performance not only of other inflatable SUPs, but that of similarly shaped hardboards, as well. If you are a new paddler living near the ocean who wants a fantastic board for touring and learning how to catch waves, this is the board for you. If you are an experienced paddler looking for the best designed inflatable SUP for surfing and exploring, this is the board for you. You will have a blast paddling this board. I guarantee it!
At home on the playa.
What do you get?
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Carbon Construction™ – unique to Hala and provides an amazing edge over all other inflatable SUPs.
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Full Rocker – designed to surf, I found the rocker profile really maximizes stability in ocean swell and wind chop when touring, as well.
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Dynamic Shape – this is a performance shape that allows you to get more out of the Playa than you would another SUP with similar dimensions.
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4 Soft Rigging Points – no need to worry about hooking your toe on an ugly D-ring.
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4.75” Low Volume Rails – the Playa has a lower profile than your average inflatable SUP.
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2 Removable, Gummy, Side-Bite Click Fins – these guys track great and will not break or snap off. No tools needed!
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8” Center Flex Fin – will not break and is super easy to install and remove, no tools needed!
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Backcountry Rolling Backpack – hands down the best inflatable SUP bag in the industry.
The Hala Playa is conveniently shaped at 10’11” x 30” x 4.75”. The length and width provide a perfect platform for beginners to have a stable, comfortable board to learn on, while the 4.75” thickness offers unrivaled potential for performance as your skills improve. The Hala Playa is a board you can grow with.
Local hangout
One of the many great things about owning an inflatable SUP is its ease of use. You don’t have to lug an awkward, heavy hard board on and off a roof rack. In fact, you don’t even need to purchase a roof rack! I enjoy keeping my Hala Playa in the back of my Jeep so I can quickly head to the playa (pun intended!) after work. I have a favorite spot in Playa del Rey not far from my house with ample free parking. The later is a bit of a rarity in the LA area.
Ready for inflation.
Playa del Rey is located directly south of Marina del Rey. I can typically find a parking spot right along the sand. Inflating the Hala Playa is quick and easy, particularly when using the included electric hand pump. The electric hand pump will not fully inflate the board, but it is great for getting some initial volume into it. Hala Gear’s hand pump is straightforward, easy to use and incorporates a readily identifiable lever to switch between single and dual action. To achieve the best result, use the hand pump in the dual action setting until it becomes difficult to pump. Then switch the lever to single action and you will be able to comfortably top off the board to 15 psi.
Playa del Rey is a deep beach with several hundred yards of sand between the road and the water’s edge. Even so, carrying the Hala Playa across the sand is not a burden. From there, I launch off the beach into the oncoming waves and paddle north towards the mouth of Marina del Rey.
After crossing the mouth of the marina (keep an eye out for boat traffic, especially on the weekends) I’ll pop out on the north side in an area where Marina del Rey blends into Venice Beach.
This past winter, Marina del Rey was dredged. Much of the sediment dug up from the bottom was hauled out on a barge and dumped in the bay north of the marina. Right where Marina del Rey becomes Venice Beach. As a result, the sediment formed a nice little sandbar offshore that causes the waves to break. Nice surfable waves similar to what one may find at Doheny State Beach. And you need a SUP to get to them!
The area has become a little SUP surfing hangout, perfect for the longboard style shape of the 10’11” Hala Playa.
Due to it’s length, the Playa easily catches the waves. Best of all, the 4.75” rails and side bites make it possible to carve a bottom turn and truly surf waves vs. merely riding them straight into shore. This board’s got game and will put a smile on your face. It is fun. A lot of fun.
Hala Playa: Conclusion
I’ve paddled a lot of SUPs and as far as I’m concerned, the notion that you are somehow compromising with the Carbon Hybrid Hala Playa compared to a hard board is mute. The Hala Playa is not a compromise. It is a superior product. One which you and your family will enjoy again and again for years to come.
#inflatablesup #HalaGear #PumpedUpPaddler #Surfing #HalaPlaya
I’m a 43-year-old beginner skateboarder. Yes, believe it or not, it is true. I grew up in rural Nebraska and it just wasn’t something we did. So when I was approached by Hamboards in early November to review one of their land paddling boards I was excited, but also a bit nervous about the prospect and even considered turning them down. I envisioned a broken wrist, a cracked skull or worse. And while all those things still may happen, here I am, a 43-year-old beginner skateboarder. Yew!
Me and my Hamboard.
Being a beginner, this will be not be your typical gear review. After all, I’m in no position to provide “expert” commentary on a skateboard. I am however, a perfect test pilot to learn how to skate and land paddle from an everyman’s perspective. So here we go, from soup to nuts, this is the first chapter in my Hamboards land paddling experience as I channel my inner longboarder prowess and chronicle my progression, accomplishments and failures carving up the streets of Los Angeles to infinity and beyond.
Why landpaddling?
But hey, you may be wondering what the heck is are Hamboards anyways?! Well, let me tell you. The brand is a cutting edge skateboard company founded by a group of enterprising brothers in non other than Huntington Beach, California. They offer a quiver of seven über stylish boards ranging from the petit Biscuit at 24” long to the behemoth 6’6” Classic. The Hamborg brothers designed each of their boards with the goal of replicating the experience of surfing on land. Whereas the Biscuit is probably analogous to surfing a shortboard, the Classic is a true land paddling machine, not to mention a consummate head turner.
Most of the boards in the range are available in a natural bamboo finish and although I’m a huge fan of the color orange, I was beyond stoked to unpack a Classic in natural bamboo. The craftsmanship is immaculate and instantly evokes images of classic longboards with its elegant, long striations of color. This board is a true thing of beauty. It is art and if money were no object, I could envisage mounting one to the wall as an objet d’art. Coming in at 6’6” x 15”, the Classic is fitted out with a set of eye-catching 200mm spring torsion trucks and 98mm 78A wheels. It is smooth, very smooth. Compared to “normal” skateboard wheels, these wheels are massive!
For stand up paddlers, the land paddle is a natural extension of an on the water paddling experience. Engineered with a blend of spiral bound carbon fiber and high-tech fiberglass, the land paddle has a flexible (and replaceable) rubber tip on one end and an ergonomically shaped, EVA wrapped handle just like many SUP paddles on the other. The rubber tip grips the ground well – essentially, if the surface is firm enough to plant your foot, you can stick the land paddle and be off rolling.
Up top, the EVA wrapped handle makes using the paddle a comfortable and pleasant experience. The EVA construction prevents your hand from slipping and is comfortable to grip over long periods. The entire paddle is lightweight, easy to use and just like a SUP paddle, it is available from Hamboards in two configurations: adjustable and fixed length.
I’m using an adjustable and I recommend going this route. I will most likely settle on one length in due time, but having the flexibility to play around with different lengths as I get to know the board is clearly advantageous and I would not want to have it any other way. Plus, it is a lot easier to share your paddle and board with friends. And believe me, when people see you riding a 6’6” Classic Hamboards, you are going to suddenly have a whole new batch of friends.
No Assembly Required
I’m generally not a patient person and it doesn’t take much for me to balk at products where significant assembly is required. At home I’m known for breaking things, not putting them together. In my mind, this makes me a perfect product tester and I’ve been known to push gear to within an inch of its life. So, if you’re like me and don’t enjoy putting things together, you’re in luck. You can ride a Hamboards board straight out of the box. Did I mention the Classic is 6’6” long? Well, the box it comes in is even bigger!
I live on a long cul-de-sac with a slight decline. The pavement out front is, well, let’s just say it has a bit of texture. I stepped on the board for the first time, wobbled a bit and fell off to the side. Take two: I positioned my feet along the clearly delineated centerline of the board and I was off! Look out world, here I come!
My first “run” was similar to most new surfers when they first begin catching waves. In other words, I went straight. The initial excitement of rolling down the street was soon accompanied by the feeling that I was picking up some speed as the street declined into the turning circle at the end of the road.
Unsure how I was “supposed” to stop, I hopped off to one side while trying to maintain a toehold on the board with my other foot. I didn’t exactly execute the maneuver as planned. In a manner just like falling off your surfboard or SUP, my foot that was still on the board had the unintended consequence of pushing 6’6” the elegant bamboo crafted board down the street towards a parked car like a missile from a combat drone.
I sprinted after the board. Fortunately I was able to chase it down. Crisis averted!
Lesson One: Speed is not necessarily your friend and when out on a skateboard, you will find all the hills, especially the little ones whose existence you may have previously disregarded.
I practiced some basic carving turns and began to develop an initial feel for how the board performs. Just like surfing, or alpine skiing for that matter, you only have to apply a small amount of pressure to the rail to initiate a change of direction. The stand up paddling mantra of look down, fall down also applies. Keep your head up and allow the board to become an extension of your body. Now this is easier said than done. The Hamboard is after all beautiful and you are going to want to look at it. Especially on your first time out.
I had the perfect solution. GoPro!
Exploring the Strand
There is an ocean down there somewhere!
So, remembering my conversation with the Hamboards Sales & Marketing Manager who told me he land paddles up to 20 miles in a day (I’m a bit competitive) I decided to head down to the strand cycle path on day two to see what I could do. The path runs the length of the beach along the Santa Monica Bay from the Pacific Palisades in the north to Palos Verdes in the south and is a great public resource regularly filled with walkers, joggers, cyclists and skateboarders making their way north and south.
I loaded the Hamboard into my Jeep which necessitated folding the front passenger seat down flat, and headed down the parkway to Playa del Rey where I planned to park and pick up the strand path. I only live a few miles from the beach and it was sunny at home, but as I drove down the parkway I began to encounter the distinctive signs of a marine layer drifting in. For those who do not live near the coast, the marine layer is a layer of fog, typically thick, which comes in from the water and envelops the land in a cool, damp, gray cloud. Basically it transforms the Southern California of picture perfect postcards into a moonscape.
White out!
While it would have been dangerous to be out on the water that day, visibility along the beach was suitable for land paddling I decided. Having had a bit of experience with the marine layer, I also knew that it was possible the fog was localized and I may skate/paddle out of the fog bank as I made my way south.
I didn’t have a predetermined destination in mind as I headed out on the Hamboard that day, although I initially thought I would be doing well to make it to Dockweiler Beach – roughly 1.5 miles (2.4 k) away. Skating along the path is pretty straight forward in a manner of speaking. You do have to be proficient enough to navigate around other people and handle the windy curves of the path. And while it was only my second day with the board, I quickly felt comfortable enough to paddle on!
Starting out on the strand path.
This was in no doubt due to the amazing stability of the Hamboard Classic. To be clear, I do SUP surf, but not anywhere near as often as I’d like, and I’m firmly in the cruisy, longboard style camp as opposed to being a snappy, shortboard ripper. So while I’m new to skateboarding, my balance is probably better than someone who has never surfed or skated. Even so, rolling along the path on the eye-catching board was a whole new experience.
The majority of the stand path is flat, although there are a few soft, undulating hills as the path winds its way along the beach. With my initial lesson about speed fresh in my mind, I took no shame in stepping off the board and walking along it down one of the steeper sections as the path descends into El Segundo Beach and passes in front of the Chevron refinery. Because of the two-way traffic on the path, you are limited to staying in your lane and are not able to cut the type of wide carving turns which for which the Classic is designed and I certainly wasn’t up to bombing down the hill and risk plowing into someone coming the opposite direction around the blind turn at the bottom.
As I cruised along the flats it was not long before I gained a sense of confidence and began to add a little speed. As someone transitioning to the Hamboard from stand up paddling, I initially wanted to use an extended reaching stroke once I started cruising, but quickly realized that was not going to get the job done. In comparison to a stand up paddle where you plant the paddle and then pull your board towards it, the land paddle works best as a pushing tool in the same manner as you would use your foot if propelling the board in a traditional skateboard fashion.
Even though it was only my second time out on the board, I quickly found the fun factor as I glided down the path on the giant board gaining additional confidence each time I passed by someone. Settling into a cruising pace, I began to get an initial feel for the utility of the board as a surf training tool. Just like on a surfboard or SUP, the Hamboards Classic responds to the slightest foot adjustment. It is a feeling just like surfing.
Manhattan Beach
Outside the side entrance to Nikau Kai during their construction phase.
Having long since blown past Dockweiler Beach, I was on a quest for sunshine and kept on trucking all the way down to the Manhattan Beach Pier, which is right around 5 miles (8k) away from my starting point. As luck would have it, the marine layer dissipated as I continued to roll down the strand and I was able to snap a selfie at the pier before trekking up the hill to drop to see my friends at Nikau Kai Surf x Cafe.
Nikau Kai is the premier waterman shop in Manhattan Beach and the cafe is a new addition. I was curious to check on the progress of the construction and it also gave me an opportunity to let the boys at the shop try out the Hamboards Classic. There is still some work to be done, but if you are in the area I recommend stopping by to check out this fantastic, family owned and operated shop.
A short while later I made my way back down the hill to the stand path and cruised back to Playa del Rey where I had parked. Heading back was a bit like watching my day in reverse as the marine layer promptly returned around El Segundo and I’m sure I passed by a few of the same people as I had earlier in the day.
This is the first installment in a series on the ins and outs of cruising on a Hamboards Classic. Join Matt each month as he practices new skills, explores the strand path, encounters new sights, and meets new friends from the Palisades to Palos Verdes.
Learn more at hamboards.com.
Acknowledgements: Shelta Hats provided the Griffin camo hat and as anyone who follows my columns regularly knows, I’m a big fan of Shelta. The hydration pack I used is a Source Hydration Durabag Pro which is a fantastic, insulated hydration pack with a number of easy to use and care for features. My shirt is a 100% polyester SelectWick performance shirt from Merrell and is my current go to shirt for all manner of outdoor activities from the sand to the summit.
#landpaddling #Hamboards #YearWithABoard #NikauKaiSurfxCafe #GearReview #skateboarding
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Division of Boating and Waterways Offers $3.75 Million in Grants to Enhance Public Safety and Protec
The Division of Boating and Waterways (DBW) is now accepting grant applications to help local public entities enhance safety on California’s waterways, and protect them from abandoned and unwanted vessels. The application period for the grant programs, Boating Safety and Enforcement Equipment (BSEE) and Surrendered and Abandoned Vessel Exchange (SAVE), is open from March 16 through April 16, 2020. Interested applicants are encouraged to review the grant guidelines and participate in an applicant workshop.
“With more than four million motorized and non-motorized recreational boaters on California’s waterways, it is important to support local public entities in enhancing public safety and protecting the environment,” said Ramona Fernandez, DBW’s Acting Deputy Director. “Together we can provide more positive experiences to the recreational boating community.”
In 2019, DBW awarded 16 BSEE grants totaling $1.1 million and 30 SAVE grants totaling $2.6 million. This year, a total of $3.75 million in grant funding is available to eligible applicants.
Below are descriptions of the grant programs and available funding:
BSEE Grant Program
Up to $1 million is available to local government agencies that can demonstrate a need for patrol boats, engines, personal watercraft, search and rescue equipment, and patrol and diving equipment. These competitive grants are to augment existing local resources and not to fully fund boating safety and enforcement patrol units. The U.S. Coast Guard Recreational Boating Safety Program provides BSEE grant funding.
SAVE Grant Program
Up to $2.75 million is available to local public agencies statewide to receive surrendered vessels and to remove and dispose of derelict vessels on coastal and inland waterways. Grant funding comes from the Abandoned Watercraft Abatement Fund. DBW awards grants on a competitive basis to eligible public agencies based on demonstrated need.
Applications for both grant programs must be submitted to DBW through its Online Grant Application System (OLGA). Prior to applying, the division encourages new applicants to view a 45-minute webinar that provides detailed instructions on creating an account in OLGA as well as navigating the application system. Additionally, DBW is hosting a 2-hour workshop for each grant program to help applicants write competitive applications.
Below is detailed information on the workshops:
BSEE Workshop
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Date: Thursday, April 2, 2020
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Time: 10 a.m. – noon
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Location: DBW Headquarters, One Capitol Mall, Suite 500, Sacramento (95814)
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RSVP: Johanna Naughton: Via email or (916) 327-1826
SAVE Workshop
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Date: Thursday, April 2, 2020
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Time: 1 p.m. – 3 p.m.
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Location: DBW Headquarters, One Capitol Mall, Suite 500, Sacramento (95814)
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RSVP: Ron Kent: Via email or (916) 327-1825
The workshops can also be accessed via teleconference and will be recorded for those unable to participate in the live presentations. Please see contacts above for any questions.
Once grant applications have been reviewed and scored, DBW will send out notice of award letters via OLGA. DBW anticipates that awards will be announced by August 2020.
Detailed information, including previous grantee recipients, is available on DBW’s website.