Review of the V1 Fai Va’a 4SI by Outrigger Zone

[@barryblackburn5910]

I like the green color 😎

[@Joewvg]

Great Video! You’re definitely getting fast on that vessel. Keep it up 😎🤙🏽

[@barryblackburn5910]

Thank you 🤙🏽🤙🏽

[@Chunter629]

Great review! Couple of questions regarding comparison between the V1 and the OC1: 1. How much more leg drive can you get in the v1 seat? Would you say it's in a more ergonomically favourable position to generate power? (Compared to oc1) 2. How would you compare the speed of the v1 vs oc1 in the flat? Do you find you achieve more glide and faster speeds due to the narrower and longer hull? (Taking out energy for corrective strokes, of course!) Thanks!

[@barryblackburn5910]

Great questions. I’ll give a more detailed response soon.

[@barryblackburn5910]

1. Yes, I feel like I can use my legs more in the V1 compared to the OC1. The carbon fiber V1 is similar to paddling in an unlimited OC6 due to the adjustable footplate. The outrigger zone manufactured Fai Va’a 4SI has an adjustable foot plate (with built in foot operated bilge pump). This foot plate allows the paddler to use their legs much more than an OC1. The geometry of the seat and footplate is more like paddling an in an OC6. I really like that about the V1. 2. Regarding paddling in the flats… the V1 is arguably faster in the flat water compared to an OC1. I think this is due to the longer water line in the V1, the flatter rocker, and not having the drag of a rudder. This is highly dependent on the skill of the V1 paddler of course. If I could clone myself and have one version of me in an OC1 and the other version of me in a V1… I believe I am already faster in the V1 in flat water. And this is after paddling a V1 for just under 600 miles to date. As for ocean paddling and downwind runs I am not very fast in the V1 (yet 😀). Finally, I was drawn to the V1 because I really wanted to learn to paddle steer, I wanted to use my legs more like I did in the OC6, I like the link to traditional Polynesian paddling, and I love the feeling of the glide of the V1 not having a rudder. Have you paddled a V1? Would love to hear your thoughts.

[@Chunter629]

@@barryblackburn5910 Hi Barry, Thank you for the detailed response! I've been a fan of The Paddle Channel for some time now. Your videos and articles are always fantastic. I own an Ares OC1 and paddle OC6, but I've always been interested in moving into the V1. I've paddled V1 a couple of times but not enough to make a valid comparison between the two single crafts. As you mentioned, the connection to Polynesian paddling and the "glide" are two factors that draw me in as well. Additionally, I find that I generate relatively little leg drive in the OC1, especially compared to the OC6/Surfski. Your comments about the V1's footplate allowing more leg drive and biomechanically enabling you to get 'over' the stroke and apply more pressure confirm for me that I'll likely be able to apply more power to the stroke in the V1. Tai Paddles & Sonic Waka have recently released a new V1 with the option of a removable rudder, called the "Tai Manawa." This will likely be the canoe I purchase. It offers all the benefits of the V1 learning experience plus the option for a rudder for rougher days and downwinders. If you have time, I would love a more detailed article or video on your experience of moving from OC1 to V1, including key differences and learnings. The V1 scene is growing in popularity here in Sydney, Australia (and no doubt in the US as well), and informative content from experienced paddlers like yourself would be invaluable! Cheers, Charlie

[@barryblackburn5910]

@@Chunter629thank you Charlie!! You gave me some great ideas for future videos. Thanks for the support of our channel. That V1 with rudder option sounds interesting.

[@Hfd678vcdg]

@@barryblackburn5910 there's no doubt being a v1 paddler makes you a better paddler in the 6 as well. we noticed a significant improvement to our 6 team after we switched to v1. everyone is so much more in tune with what the canoe is doing.