#Chasing Conditions off Point Defiance in Tacoma, WA 1-6-2026

Perfect conditions for a solo paddle and roll practice off Point Defiance in Tacoma, WA to play with a couple of new paddle lengths. In my hands for the first roll is a prototype 214 cm version of the new Gearlab Outdoors IPIK 225. The paddle used after the transition is the 'Deception Pass' Kalleq (which is also a shorter, non-standard length at 200 cm). Both felt great in my hands. The shorter IPIK is a far better length for me personally than the IPIK 225, so I am thrilled there is a discussion on the shorter length. In these conditions I find the shorter length is a huge asset. It can be harder to roll, but I have more control in the conditions than I do with my 210 cm. Stoked to get both of these into more scenarios and situations! As for the second roll, it wasn't anything technically ideal, but keep in mind the conditions (see below) I was in and that I rolled up (this was on purpose) upwind AND up-current. You can see me looking to my left to measure progress and set my stroke rate. Watch the channel marker to see how little forward progress I was making against the wind and current. Air temp - 41 F/5 C Water temp - 50 F /10 C Winds - SW at 17-19 knots sustained with gusts of 30-37 knots (depending on the forecast model) Current - 2 knot ebb (wind and current in the same direction). ___________________________________________________________________________ For sea kayak & Greenland style paddling instruction (I do travel): https://rnissenbaum.com Get out, go #seakayaking, #challengeyourself, #pushyourllimits, #goexplore, get in some #skillspractice, #learnsomethingnew & live your #lifeunleased with a few #kayakingadventures (and preferrably with a #greenlandpaddle)! Facebook:   / robertcnissenbaum   Instagram:   / robert.nissenbaum