I have the Stardard adjustable version (4”x8”) on my tandem boat. Thinking about adding a set to a Northstar removable yoke for my Northwind Solo for long portages. Should I just get the Lightweight version for the solo boat (3”x6”)? Any thoughts? My solo is 15.5’ 30# and my tandem is 18’9” 50#.

For that boat, I’d opt for the sling pads from Chosen Valley Canoe Accessories . Lighter weight and less bulk.

Sling pads are torture for lots of folk. I Switched to Bourquin on my solo and then (for a light boat) moved to this Level 6 Helium Pad and am never going back.

I had Sling Pads. Best looking pads. Most painful pads.

I also dislike Sling pads; Bourquin are excellent and yes, I'd get the smaller ones for a solo.

Dooger: "I have the Stardard adjustable version (4”x8”) on my tandem boat. Thinking about adding a set to a Northstar removable yoke for my Northwind Solo for long portages. Should I just get the Lightweight version for the solo boat (3”x6”)? Any thoughts? My solo is 15.5’ 30# and my tandem is 18’9” 50#."

I have the heavyweight version for my Souris River 18.5 which was 50+ pounds. The lightweight version should be fine for your canoe.

The sling pads might be good for your lightweight canoe as well, I didn't like them for my heavier canoe.

T

I'm honestly astounded that anyone likes the sling pads, but to each their own.

mgraber: "I'm honestly astounded that anyone likes the sling pads, but to each their own."

I am stunned by your comment and those of the others above. I've had CVCA sling pads on my canoe for 25 years and have never even had a thought of changing them. I'm not doubting your feelings toward them - if they're not comfortable on your shoulders, they're not the right pads. It's the strong negative opinions about a product that I've happily used for years that surprises me.

Jackfish: "

mgraber: "I'm honestly astounded that anyone likes the sling pads, but to each their own."

I am stunned by your comment and those of the others above. I've had CVCA sling pads on my canoe for 25 years and have never even had a thought of changing them. I'm not doubting your feelings toward them - if they're not comfortable on your shoulders, they're not the right pads. It's the strong negative opinions about a product that I've happily used for years that surprises me. "

This is a personal preference issue. I have used both block foam pads and sling pads and I prefer sling pads.

Just recommended Borquin pads to someone else. Lightweight version should be fine for your solo boat. If in doubt just check with her and see what she recommends. The old school in me still likes pads, but have known folks who used the sling and other methods and they have worked fine for them. Some Ely outfitters may have pads on sale at the end of the season if you can wait that long.

I now have the Bourquin pads on my three tandem canoes. The CVCA sling pads that I removed from one of the tandems went on the removable yoke for my Northstar Magic and on that canoe they work very well because the canoe is so light. On the tandems though I found the sling pads to be torture....

I have the smaller version Borquins on my clamp-on yoke that I made for my Northwind Solo. I have five or so trips with them so far and they're a little firm but plenty stable and comfortable, they will wear in over time and become less firm.

Used to have sling pads but got rid of them for Bourquins for my Vagabond, 44lbs. I found the sling pads to pinch in spots on the top of my shoulders.