SwiftyPaddler's Reviews & Views

While planning for a remote, solo backcountry adventure recently, my wife insisted I had some means of communication should I find myself in trouble or injured. I’m generally very careful when travelling solo (keyword, generally), but, accidents do happen. It feels like the longer you’re away, and the deeper in backcountry you go, the greater the risk of something going wrong.   So, in addition to meal and route planning, I found myself researching and considering a number of satellite based, personal communication devices. Zoleo Global Messenger I selected the Zoleo Global Messenger device with accompanying service plan. For a modest price, I was able to have two way text messaging and/or email no matter where I was, even without cell service. Most importantly, emergency services were always available, simply at the press of a button, literally. This provides unbeatable peace of mind for the important people in your life. While there are several competing products to chose fr...

For over 20 years, my main canoe has been an 18’ 4” Swift Quetico (which is no longer manufactured). Having a growing family and a desire for big trips, it served me very, very well over the years. Now that I find myself going on more solo trips, often with multiple portages, I wanted something better suited to my current needs. Swift Prospector 14 Having had a good experience with Swift, both before and after sale, it was natural that I eventually ended up purchasing another Swift canoe. I did look hard at several other worthy manufactures, but kept coming back to Swift; my personal experience carried a lot of weight for me. I purchased the Prospector 14, Kevlar Fusion model, Ruby/Champagne two tone in colour with matching skid plates (which I consider important), Kayak foot braces (for occasional double blade paddling), a detachable cherry yoke, and lastly the cherry "outers" option. While I added the cherry outers mostly for the ascetic appeal, I quickly found they make...