Ellie Friedmann
Recent Posts from Ellie
The Five Different Types of Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)
A Personal Flotation Device, also called a PFD, helps you stay on the surface of the water. They can help keep you safe during a variety of recreational activities and situations. In the United States, the U.S. Coast Guard certifies and regulates PFDs, dividing them into five different types. Within these five categories there are inherently buoyant (foam-filled), inflatable, and hybrid designs. This article will focus on inherently buoyant equipment as...
The Six Most Common River Hazards
Beyond basic water reading, paddlers must be able to recognize river hazards. These features add consequence but are an inescapable part of running rivers. That being said, the best way to respond to river hazards is to avoid them whenever possible. Below are the six most common hazards as well as how to recognize and minimize their risk. 1. Strainers Just like a kitchen strainer for pasta, river strainers (or sweepers)...
Frequently Asked Questions About PFDs
A Personal Flotation Device, also called a PFD, helps you stay on the surface of the water. However, there are so many questions, so lets dive in. What is the difference between a PFD and a life jacket? There are a few differences between life jackets and most PFDs. The most important difference between a life jacket and PFD is that life jackets are designed to turn the wearer face up...
What are the Different Types of River Currents?
River water does not flow in a straight line but must meander, fall, swirl, and collect according to its environment. We call these movements currents. As whitewater boaters, we must be able to “read,” understand, and different currents to get safely downstream. Lets jump into learning about who, what, when, where, and whys of river currents. What is Laminar Water Flow? First, let us discuss a simple, straight section of river...
Multi-Day Rafting Trip Sanitation Strategies
River life is quite different from the 9-5 city workday style, but good sanitation practices do not change between the two. No one wants to remember the trip as “that one with the stomach bug”. Hands are still washed, dishes are still cleaned, the toilet setup is still maintained, and you can still take a bath. People employ various systems for each of these areas on trips, here are a few...
The Best PFD for Boating
A Personal Flotation Device (PFD) is a necessary piece of safety equipment for any paddler or passenger. While nearly all PFDs have a similar general design, each boater looks for slightly different features to optimize their experience. This article will discuss the factors you need to consider to find the best PFD for your boating. What is the Best PFD? The best PFD is the vest that fits you well, maintains...
Zipper Repair
Zippers are an often overlooked piece of equipment but need maintenance and repair to work properly in whitewater settings. An integral part of drysuits, wetsuits, tents, boats, and gear bags, zipper maintenance is a good addition to a spring cleaning checklist for your gear. How do Zippers Wear? Zippers can wear down over time after exposure to the elements, neglect or both. The mechanism can stick due to sandy or silty...
What Should I Wear Rafting? - Pro Tips for Day Trips
Whitewater rafting is one of the more exhilarating family outdoor activities and requires some planning to bring the right gear for your trip. Preparing well will set you and your family up for a successful (and safer!) trip on the water. Here are the basics on what to wear and what to bring for before, during and after an amazing day of whitewater rafting. What Should I Wear Rafting? Getting wet...
How to Determine Proper Oar Size
Properly sized oars can make all the difference when seeking a comfortable rowing experience and good lines. Below is a guide for determining the right oar size given a variety of variables and activities. While this article provides a baseline, nothing replaces trying out different length oars for yourself. How Long Should Rowing Oars Be? This article is here to help, but there is no one-size-fits-all approach. In general, proper oar...
Rowing From A Woman's Perspective
When I first learned to row I came from a soccer background with arms the size of angel hair pasta. A few years later I was playing a lot less soccer but having a great time leading expeditions from 18-foot gearboats. While there are diverse styles and opinions about the process, effective rowing encourages simple and safe lines while having a good time on the water. Below are a few perspectives...
