Swiftwater Training, Oar Distance & WING Fabric | Gear Garage Live Show

This podcast is the audio version of the Gear Garage live show, where Zach answers submitted questions and discusses technical rafting setups. In this episode, Zach covers everything from oar tower spacing to the nuances of Wing raft fabrics, and shares a pointed "white-water vs. swift-water" perspective on rescue training.

Episode Summary

Zach kicks off the show with a shout-out to GoRafting.com, highlighting their digital river maps that work through the Far Out app. He notes that while paper maps are traditional, the ability to have GPS-located camps, updated rapid descriptions, and photos directly on your phone is a game-changer for multi-day trips like the Grand Canyon or Middle Fork.

A significant portion of the Q&A focuses on oar frame setup. Zach addresses the distance between oar towers, advising that your hands should be positioned similarly to a push-up stance for maximum rowing efficiency. He also clarifies his stance on Search and Rescue (SAR) training, explaining the difference between his expertise in "whitewater rescue" (focused on river guiding and recreational boating) and the more specialized "swiftwater rescue" used by first responders.

The episode wraps up with a technical look at raft construction, specifically discussing the fabrics used by Wing. Zach answers questions about the durability and repairability of different materials, helping boaters understand what to look for when choosing a high-performance raft.

Topics and links that Zach talked about in this episode

• Sponsor: GoRafting.com digital river guides.
• Training: Northwest Rafting Company's online rowing and rescue schools.
• Technical Gear: Oar tower spacing and leverage ratios.
• Raft Brands: Wing Rafts and fabric specifications.

Key Questions from the Episode

• Topic: Training. "What curriculum should a Search and Rescue unit focus on for basic swiftwater awareness?"
• Topic: Digital Maps. "Do digital maps like GoRafting have information that traditional paper guides miss?"
• Topic: Oar Setup. "How far apart should my oar towers be for effective rowing?"
• Topic: Raft Fabric. "What makes Wing fabrics different from other manufacturers?"

Connect with Zach

• Instagram
• YouTube

Zach Collier is the owner of Northwest Rafting Company and an International Rafting Federation Rafting Instructor. He has decades of river guiding and expedition experience across the American West and internationally, specializing in technical rowing and professional guide training.