I have had been an avid canoe owner for many years. I am pretty comfortable and self confidant in a canoe. Recently me, my gf, and my son have all purchased kayaks. This is mine: http://www.liquidlogickayaks.com/products/saluda.html
Anyway, some questions:
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We are doing some class I and II white water. I have a nylon spray skirt. Do you put the skirt on you, get in the yak, then attach the skirt to the cockpit? Or, do you attach the skirt to the cockpit and climb in then attach it to you?
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Getting in is awkward for me. I am cool climbing into a canoe and moving around once in, but a kayak is a problem. Each of us have spilled once while getting in. Is there a trick?
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Gloves/pads. I have some fingerless gloves that work great for me, but my gf is getting blisters from her paddle. I have seen yakgrips http://www.yakpads.com/yakgrips.htm but we have one-piece paddles, so these are not an option. Suggestions?
Any other suggestions for a kayak novice appreciated as well. Gracias!