Optimal weight

[Canoewiia]

Are there general guidance percentages of the optimal weight of the paddler(s) and gear to the listed maximum carrying weight of a canoe? 60%-70% for example. I'm most interested in that ratio as it relates to a recreational canoe and flatwater paddling.

 

[snapper]

This may not be of much help so I'll let you decide if it's worth your consideration...

When I used to teach a hiking & backpacking class, the guide I gave my students is that men should not try to carry more than 25% of their body weight; the limit for women is 20%. Even at those percentages, some people just shouldn't try to carry heavy weights since their body may not be able to handle the stress and strain on their joints and/or muscles.

That's all for now. Take care and until next time...be well.

snapper

 

[billconner]

I don't have a problem of combined weight being near 100% but depends some on how that canoe manufacturer rated it. When I've shopped for canoes, I probably aim for 80 to 85%.

 

[Tryin']

The carrying capacity has a lot of variance from manufacturer to manufacturer. Some use waterline, some use freeboard, it can get weird.

Most modern manufacturers seem to give an ideal weight range, which seems to correlate with the 3-4" waterline, give or take.

My experience, which is nothing compared to many here, is that the weight at 4" waterline is a good target for the high end of what I will put in it. But that can change with rocker and hull cross section...

For the older canoe ad copies that list total capacity, 70% seems to work out ok as well. Again, my experience.