Bombproof Roll and Beyond: Paddling on the Edge

this book taught me to roll, on my own, no instructor. derek hutchinson's book is a classic but dutkey's is an instruction manual. personal creed: if you cant roll, don't go further than you can swim to shore. ergo, if you sea kayak, buy this book. forget the pawlata, it's impractical. go for the sweep roll and relish the freedom having a bombproof roll brings to your paddling.

I bought this book around the time it first came out about nine years ago or so. Not only is it useful for learning the kayak roll, the author also covers "old school" playboating maneuvers such as wave surfing, side-surfing in holes, 360's, enders, and pirouttes. The illustrations are diagramatic and especially helpful. Rolling techniques included are the "C-to-C" or snap roll, the sweep roll, back deck rolls, hands rolls as well as rolling stategies and exercises. Definitely one of the most helpful kayaking technique books I have read.

The Bombproof roll and beyond is an essential book for any novice or intermediate kayaker. This book does and excellent job of explaining through both text and illustrations the different steps involved in just about any roll imaginable (c to c, sweep, back deck, hand roll). It also provide excellent tips for identifying and correcting problems with rolls. An outstanding book. An essential in any kayaker's library.

I can echo the comments of the other reviewers of this book. It is very well written, clear with very practical and useful drills. I am a sea kayaker so some of the material will not apply, but with that said I would recommend this book to anyone who wishes to understand the forces behind a good roll and various braces and who wishes to accomplish rolls in the most efficient manner. I wish us sea kayakers could get Paul interested in longer boats, choppy seas, and beach waves. We need his expertise.

Kayaking is a very complex sport. Paul does a great job of breaking down complex manoeuvers into their basic elements, and provides suggestions for drills on how to improve skills in these areas. I have been kayaking for several years (intermediate level), but even in the first few chapters I gained insight on things I could improve. I recommend this book for any kayaker, from the extreme novice to the expert. Even if you can do the things that Paul describes....he will help you understand HOW you do them; thus begins the journey to enlightenment and improvement.....