Hello canoe people,
First time poster who just found the site. I've been paddling since I was a kid, started around age 6 with the scouts so thats about.... 30 years... whoa that snuck up on me.
My wife and I are experienced backpackers and are lucky to enjoy trekking for work and play. We are due for our first child in a few months and I'm seeing a little less backpacking and a lot of canoe tripping in our future.
Up until recently we've not had the space to own a boat but are looking to buy one. Usually I'll rent from an outfitter. I describe the trip and pick up a boat (so far always Wenonahs, no idea which model) and now that I'm shopping for one I'm realizing I don't know much as far as makes, models and what makes a good touring canoe.
So heres my question to you all. I've got the opportunity to buy a 16' kevlar Mad River Malecite in great shape or a 17' tuff weave Wenonaha escape with a minor damage both at a pretty good price. Which should I go for?
Things to consider:
-I'd like to use this boat for multi day trips (up to 5 but usually 2-3) with my wife and one or two kids for a few years?
-I will get an additional boat once they are toddlers.
-I mostly paddle in the St. Regis Canoe Wilderness (small lakes & plenty of portaging) but may take it on slow moving rivers
-We use ultralight backpacking gear for the bulk of our equipment
-I do like to carry a little weight in the cooking department (fresh foods and some pots/pans for cooking on the fire)
-I love the fact that it seems like I'd be able to use the Mad River as a solo canoe.
I'm happy to hear your thoughts and happier to have found this community!
-Henri
First time poster who just found the site. I've been paddling since I was a kid, started around age 6 with the scouts so thats about.... 30 years... whoa that snuck up on me.
My wife and I are experienced backpackers and are lucky to enjoy trekking for work and play. We are due for our first child in a few months and I'm seeing a little less backpacking and a lot of canoe tripping in our future.
Up until recently we've not had the space to own a boat but are looking to buy one. Usually I'll rent from an outfitter. I describe the trip and pick up a boat (so far always Wenonahs, no idea which model) and now that I'm shopping for one I'm realizing I don't know much as far as makes, models and what makes a good touring canoe.
So heres my question to you all. I've got the opportunity to buy a 16' kevlar Mad River Malecite in great shape or a 17' tuff weave Wenonaha escape with a minor damage both at a pretty good price. Which should I go for?
Things to consider:
-I'd like to use this boat for multi day trips (up to 5 but usually 2-3) with my wife and one or two kids for a few years?
-I will get an additional boat once they are toddlers.
-I mostly paddle in the St. Regis Canoe Wilderness (small lakes & plenty of portaging) but may take it on slow moving rivers
-We use ultralight backpacking gear for the bulk of our equipment
-I do like to carry a little weight in the cooking department (fresh foods and some pots/pans for cooking on the fire)
-I love the fact that it seems like I'd be able to use the Mad River as a solo canoe.
I'm happy to hear your thoughts and happier to have found this community!
-Henri
)
