When you are on your way to becoming a young canoeing expert, but you find yourself with a health condition like scoliosis, it may feel like it’s over for you. The sport, after all, requires you to sit in a small boat and paddle on the water for as long as necessary to reach your destination. If it used to be effortless for you, the same might be difficult to say now, especially when you want to prevent your spine from curving further.
Nonetheless, in case your physical therapist deems that it is okay for you to continue canoeing even after getting diagnosed with scoliosis, you should find the best seat that will make the ride more stress-free for your body. Here are some things to consider before purchasing one.
Weight
Canoe seats have different weight limits. One size does not fit all. This is the first thing you have to put into consideration when you wish to purchase new boat chairs. If you are a bit hefty, you should take a chair that is durable and can hold your mass well. Flimsy materials may not last even after a single usage, so that is already one aspect to remember. It is also practical to go for canoe seats with the metal foundation since that is sturdier than average.
Practicality
You have to be realistic with what is convenient for you in terms of pricing and product bulk. It is not impossible to find longer-lasting canoe seats. However, you should be diligent in searching for them. On the other hand, not owning a canoe is not a reason for you to not acquire your seats. If you like to rent one with friends and family, you only need to get seats that can be fastened to the regular chairs.
Padding
Padded chairs are not a must, yet this is what most people look for in canoe seats. When you are out on the water, after all, and the weather is nice, the cushioned chair can make you momentarily forget that you have to row, row, and row to move the narrow boat. You can stop far from the shore and get your daily dose of news without worrying about toppling over since your weight is well-distributed. Canoeing for more than five hours is not going to give you pain on your bum either because you won’t have to stay seated on a flat surface.
Breathability
Sitting in the car cannot be that comfortable if you do not lean away from the backrest from time to time. Regardless if the air conditioner is in full swing or not, heat can build up on your back since the upholstery material may not be very breathable.
Now, this idea is analogous to canoe seats, although you merely need to rely on natural air when you are on the boat. Hence, the chairs you are looking for should be capable of letting wind pass through little vents in the backrest. Meanwhile, the full ones either have a small horizontal gap where the lower back is supposed to be situated or a mesh back support.
Functionality
Unless you are a professional paddler, there will only be certain times in a year when you can ride the canoes. For this reason, it may be more convenient if the seats you are considering to purchase can be utilized on your other trips too. If ever you are to sit in a concrete stadium, go on camping or watch an outdoor concert, for instance, you should be able to bring it.
Comfortability
Your welfare is of utmost importance. In case you cannot let a year pass without taking a canoe on the river behind the house or fishing for a short while, there are small boats with back support that can provide less strain on your muscles and spine. You may benefit greatly from getting the canoe seats that Coleman makes, to be specific, since they typically come with webbed backrest. Besides, mesh and padded seatbacks are available in the market now as well.
Extras
When you are training for a competition or aiming to travel from one side of the lake to the other, you can get canoe seats with a cup holder or drink container. It can ensure that you will stay hydrated and energized throughout your journey. Thus, you have higher chances of winning against other competitors.
Final Thoughts
Who said that you need to let go of your dreams of being a canoeing expert because a doctor diagnosed you with scoliosis?
You may need to be more conscious of your paddling technique than your peers, but it is not essential to avoid it altogether. Aside from finding the best seat for this sport, you can always rest when you feel exhausted because of it. Try not to let others hinder you from doing what you love.
Good luck!