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The following are quotes and articles from writers with comments on ballast and stability.

Testimonials

If anyone would like to share articles or experiences using ballast in their boat, please email to info@paddlingpartner.com, or use our contact form. Experiences related to use of ballast for trimming, freeboard space, weathercocking, stability/tippiness, and other challenges would be appreciated.

Your comments about the Paddling Partner are also welcome.

"I have used my Paddling Partner in my 18ft. sea kayak twice and I can see a big change in the kayak. The first time was in a fairly large river with a good current, I paddled both up and down stream with a total of 7 miles each way. The second was in the gulf. I was in the boat about 7 hours that day. I'm very happy with it. Much more enjoyable to paddle the boat now."                -John, Florida

"I have been using the Paddling Partner and I love it.  I paddle a Current Design Solistice GT Titan LV which is a large boat.  When it is full of gear it paddles like a charm.  Unloaded I get a wobble which stops when using the Paddling Partner.  I would recommend it to any one.  Easy installation, I had to cut nothing."  John, New York

"The Paddling Partner increased the secondary stability significantly.  On some boats you can feel the stability firm up as you lean it over on edge.  It feels like a slight increasing resistance as you begin to heel the boat over.  This probably corresponds to the top of the stability curve for the hull.  Without the Paddling Partner, my sea kayak had none of that.  As the boat leans over it just feels mushy, and then quickly wants to go all the way over.  After I installed the Paddling Partner, it gave the boat a nice firm edge.  So as you start to lean the boat over, it starts to resist and push you back upright.  So you feel like you're actually in a boat, not teetering on top of a log waiting to roll over." Will, WA

"The system is fantistic. I had it in my kayak and I could go faster down waves. The system is perfect for trimming the kayak and increasing the waterline.  Nothing was slipping and sliding.  I could really tell the difference from my home made systems.  I am sure a lot of people would love the unit." Sue, Wisconsin

"I paddle a Valley Quajariaq(Q-Boat) which I acquired from a friend two years ago.  I love big water, especially when it gets rough and Lake Michigan and Superior are my playgrounds.  The Q-Boat is a great boat but because of it's high volume and my low volume, the initial stability was a bit dicey, especially in rough conditions.  The Paddling Partner was the perfect solution.  I installed the system in my day hatch and got the perfect amount of additional stability I was looking for in rough water.  Because its portable, I leave it onshore when I don't need it.  It doesn't take up much room so I can still use the day hatch compartment to store my gear.  The design is unique and well engineered and I recommend it without reservation."  Robert Bertram, WI.

I tried my kayak with the Paddling Partner installed for the first time this evening.  I paddle a Current Designs "Sirocco" and I'm very pleased with the improvement the PP has made to the handling.  The kayak is still completely responsive, but the PP has taken away the twitchiness and has smoothed out the transition between primary and secondary stability.  Now, when I stop leaning the kayak stops leaning too; it feels much more secure and predictable.  Thanks for a great product and good service.              Peter, Manitoba, Canada