Things to keep in mind on a test paddle

[mdkelley]

I didn't really feel much of a difference between the two boats so didn't feel strongly either way. The phoenix did draw sideways easier/better but other than that they seemed really similar. I may take you up on a test paddle, will have to see when I could fit a trip west into my schedule. I appreciate the offer.

 

[stevet]

Was your dealer Ron Sell? If so take his advice.

 

[Neophyte]

Well, had a short test paddle today in a nw solo and a phoenix. Honestly, I couldn't tell much difference between the two other than the phoenix was shorter and I liked the kneeling seat much better than the low seat in the nw solo. The low seat with foot brace was uncomfortable on my hip joints, kneeling felt great. Paddling on a pond for a few minutes only told me that I am going to have a learning curve going to a solo boat and I don't know enough to feel the subtle differences in those 2 hulls. Most likely either boat would work fine for me. Dealer had a starlite nw solo and BL HD phoenix in stock. He did say for my use profile, the fact that I am cautious and take good care of my gear and doing mostly Michigan waters I would be fine with a starlite, even in most rivers. He said he has hit things and the starlite boat just flexes, have to hit something sharp to cause a real problem. He also said either boat would work fine for my use. So, still unsure of what would make the most sense. I need to figure out my use profile, or just get a boat and start to learn it.

You perhaps already know this, but since you didn't mention it specifically I would just point out that switching a Northstar from sitting to kneeling drops is an easy process. So if you end up liking the NW Solo but would prefer to kneel that wouldn't be a problem.

I recently switched my solo canoe from pack setup to seated drops with kayak style foot braces, and I definitely had some aching in my hips after the first paddle. It's gotten better though as I've spent more time on the water.

Personally if I didn't need the durability and maneuverability of the Phoenix I would lean towards the NW Solo, which is why I went with the Trillium over the Firebird. But yea...you should take up gumpus up on his offer to paddle his Keewaydin. That looks like a fun one, and the more canoes you paddle before you buy the better off you'll be. I'd offer you a paddle in my Trillium, but there's a few states between Michigan and Pennsylvania so that seems impractical.

 

[gumpus]

The kee 15 is close to the nw solo. If the price is a lot better then a new ns. I would take the option. Spent some of the saved cash on a mixmof paddles coaching and trips.

Yes, they are closely related indeed. I sold my NW Solo when I inherited the Kee15 from a late friend. They both feel a bit sluggish compared to my also closely related Merlin II but both are more stable and ultimately more seaworthy. But the Kee15 is the most maneuvrable...the extra volume in the sides helps it lift the stems and you can spin it. So coming downstream it's actually fun dodging trees (and occasional freestyle) where the NW Solo and Merlin II are more work (and not fun to freestyle for me). I think the 15 foot length of Kee has less skin friction than NW Solo. NW Solo may be the most stable.