Solo question

I’ve paddled a Wenonah Advantage solo for fitness and day tripsfor 20 years. I paddle a fast tandem (Jensen 18) for extended wilderness trips. As I get older (70) I’m more cautious of taking the Advantage out in waves or long crossings. I’m thinking of replacing it with a solo that would be much more seaworthy, appropriate for week-long trips (lakes and rivers), and more fun to play with on twisty, not technical, rivers. I’m considering the Northwind Solo. I’d appreciate your thoughts and suggestions. lam 5’8”, 160#, enjoy sit & switch with bent shaft and kneeling with single blade. Thanks.

I'm not a fan of the NW Solo but maybe you would be. It's not particularly efficient or maneuverable but it's very seaworthy. I thought it was boring. You're a perfect fit for the Northstar Trillium, I strongly recommend that you test paddle one if you can (it's much more efficient than NW Solo and also more maneuverable). Trillium is a hot boat that takes very little effort to paddle yet it's still friendly with no bad habits...much more playful and fun than NW Solo. The Magic is worth trying too in my opinion. It's much much more seaworthy than Advantage (I have an Advantage and have owned a Magic) and has very nice cooperative handling; it's not playful but it turns very nicely for a boat with so little rocker. It gives up a touch of speed to Advantage but it's more versatile.

Overall, if you are considering NW Solo I think the Trillium may be a bullseye for you.

Saul said:

I’ve paddled a Wenonah Advantage solo for fitness and day tripsfor 20 years. I paddle a fast tandem (Jensen 18) for extended wilderness trips. As I get older (70) I’m more cautious of taking the Advantage out in waves or long crossings. I’m thinking of replacing it with a solo that would be much more seaworthy, appropriate for week-long trips (lakes and rivers), and more fun to play with on twisty, not technical, rivers. I’m considering the Northwind Solo. I’d appreciate your thoughts and suggestions. lam 5’8”, 160#, enjoy sit & switch with bent shaft and kneeling with single blade. Thanks.

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Too bad you live so far away because a Hemlock Kestrel, Peregrine or Eaglet would fit the bill.