: Hi Jeff-

: A lot of people make float bags using the Cunningham instructions, but by the
: time you buy the fabric and twist valves (which are available from NRS)
: you'll spend more money than if you buy them. I used bags from Gaia
: Paddlesports for my first SOF (a traditional with ribs). I measured the
: space I had, and ended up with a rodeo stern and a longer-don't remember
: how long-bow bag. I put an extension tube on the bow bag so that I can
: inflate it from the cockpit, and I leave them in, but deflate them so that
: it can dry out. I spent $11 and $19, but they were on sale, and I know
: prices have gone up since then. If you're buying coated heat-seal nylon
: (Seattle Fabrics has it) for a sea sock you might hit a break-even point
: on your materials, but to be honest I only use the float bags. I've
: totally swamped my kayak to see how it floats, and it's got enough
: flotation, but it took FOREVER and then another 15 minutes to pump it out.
: If you're not a strong roller and think you'll be wet exiting you may want
: the sock.

: Good luck with the launch, and make sure you post photos!

: m

Wow, 15 minutes after forever is a really long time .

Bill H.