PFD's

   Selecting a properly fitting PFD (person floatation device) is essential not only for comfort, but also for your safety. Choose a jacket that fits snuggly, has multiple adjustment points, and one that has enough bouncy. The higher the bouncy rating, the higher you will float in the water should you overturn. The Coast Guard requires that adult PFD's have a minimum rating of 15 1/2 pounds, so keep this in mind when selecting a new PFD. To make your day of paddling more comfortable, select a PFD that has large arm openings and one with either thinner foam or mesh on the lower back. This will allow for greater arm movement and less interference with the high backs that are found on some kayaks seats. Also select a PFD that has plenty of pockets and tabs to carry those items that you will need to access quickly and frequently. And finally, choose a PFD that has reflective tape and is bright in color. Make yourself visible; kayakers are not always easy to spot on the water.

   When selecting a PFD for a child, make sure you follow all the guidelines that you do for an adult. The best way to make sure that the PFD fits correctly is to lift the child by the shoulder straps. Their chin and ears must not slip through neck opening. For some added safety, many manufacturers offer children's PFD's with leg straps that will prevent the jacket from riding up. Remember, even the most expensive, best fitting PFD will not work if you are not wearing it.

 Northern New England Outdoor Forum added!

  Northern New England Touring Kayaker has added a new section to our website; "The outdoor Forum"! We have broken it down in to two individual sections to make it easier to find what you are looking for. The first section is for sharing or seeking general kayaking, camping, hiking and outdoor information about Northern New England with others. The second section is dedicated for those looking to set up trips or looking for others to kayak, camp or hike in Northern New England. This is new for us, so there may be some glitches. If you happen to find any of those glitches, please email us at seakayaker@nnetouringkayaker.com . To access the forum, just click on the Outdoors Forum at the top of this page.

April 22nd marked the 40th Anniversary of Earth Day

Over 1 billion people world wide participated in Earth Day activities this year. 2010 marked the 40th anniversary of Earth Day, which was founded by Senator Gaylord Nelson on April 22, 1970 to raise awareness for our responsibility to this planet.

 Celebrate Earth Day by volunteering for clean up projects, planting trees and other environmentally focused projects in your local community. Continue the celebration throughout 2010 and in to 2011 by recycling, reducing your energy use and using environmentally friendly products and services.

 For more information about how you can help locally, visit the Earth Day Network's website by clicking here. 

  Quick Survey

    If you live or frequent the Northern New England area, we would like to have you take a few moments and complete a short 5 question survey. For the last couple of years; we have been thinking about opening a small. part-time business in Conway, NH. Our main goal will be to sell high quality outdoor gear that can not be found anywhere else in Northern New England along with providing services like custom kayaking, hiking and camping trips in NH's North Woods. One of the kayaks that stood above all the rest was Seaward because of their designs, quality and attention to detail. Please take a few minutes to tell us what you think. No personal information is required for the survey; just your thoughts. Below are 5 links to the questions and all of your answers will be taken seriously. Before answering any of the questions, please take a few moments to check out Seaward's website to view what they have to offer, Thanks!

Seaward Kayaks

Question 1 /  Question 2 /  Question 3 /  Question 4 /  Question 5 

 We would also like your feedback on what other hard to find, top quality kayaking, camping, hiking and outdoor items that you would like to purchase. Please email us at seakayaker@nnetouringkayaker,com