Gear Garage Live Show | May 27th, 2025

This podcast is the audio version of the Gear Garage Live Show, where we answer submitted questions and talk all things whitewater.

Topics and links that Zach talked about in this episode

• Answer Questions

Some of the Questions that Zach covered in the Q&A section of this episode

Topic: Oar Length

I used your 1.63 oar formula and determined I should be running 9' oars, not my current 8.5 oars. I'm not sure how I ended up at 8.5 - I've had them for 5+ years and used some long-lost formula to arrive at that length, but trust your method more. The boat is a Hyside Pro 13.5, but as your video states, length and tube size don't really matter - it's the width between the oarlocks.

1. How much power do you feel I'm giving up if I leave as is? I handle oars well, have been boating for 40+ years - and mostly run the Rogue, Deschutes, Main and - if I can ever get on it - the MF.

I see you're doing "row-your-owns" on the MF, I may have to consider that as permits remain elusive and I'm not getting any younger.

I'm running Sawyer MX shafts with DyneLite blades. Replacing the shafts entirely would get spendy, but I see that Sawyer has a 6" Oar Handle extension for $45 per (if not counter-balanced). Any opinion on that approach as a less costly alternative to new shafts?

Topic: Middle Fork of the Salmon - Camps

What camp do you think is the best at high water for a small group?

Topic: 15'-16' Raft

I was curious if you were still recommending the wing and hyside or if you have other boats or brands that you recommend. I’m looking for a 15 or 16 foot boat for myself, wife and three kids. Also wondering if you guys happen to have any boats for sale?

Topic: Renting V. Buying

One other question I’m considering is renting vs buying a used setup as a beginner and trying to figure out all the things to consider when making the decision.

Topic: Beginner Rowing Instruction

I live in Portland and am a beginner looking to get into rowing whitewater.

I’m hoping to get some instruction soon so I can be out on the river this summer. Are there any businesses you’d recommend for learning to row?