These two things are scaring me as i read the trials and tribulations of other Tribe members' challenges. How can I/we avoid these things (rashes and sores), also, how can we announce our presence to sleeping manatees so we don't spook them and get flipped in their haste to flee. I think I read somewhere about a paddle slap or two on the water surface...? Thanks.
Rashes and open sores
(12 posts) (8 voices)-
CleanSlate
MemberOne trick to avoid chafing is to first determine where you are susceptible to chafing and then as a precaution put on some moleskin or equivalent over the area beforehand. For example, I was getting the skin rubbed off around my waste on long trips so I'm going to apply a lot of moleskin around my waste to try to avoid this problem going forward. There may also be some specially clothing accessories that also prevent this kind of chaffing.
Also, not all bathing suits or shorts are created equal. Some are more prone to chaffing than others. Find something that chafes the least.
Posted 7 years ago # -
BustedRudder
MemberAquaphor. Maybe the same as desitin have not read labels. Have used in 4 challenges successfully so afraid to change.
Butt and armpits. Prevents ass cherries and pit rash. Great for hands too... slows down waterlogging of hands so less blisters. Good thing because it takes hands to apply.
If I could only reach my back!
Posted 7 years ago # -
Aquaphor is great stuff!
Posted 7 years ago # -
You're probably thinking of Hydropel. It was great stuff, but unfortunately is no longer on the market. The main ingredients are Petrolatum and Dimethicone. My understanding is that the Petrolatum (same main ingredient as Aquaphor) adds some lubrication and the Dimethicone (a silicone oil) helps to keep your skin from being waterlogged.
I use Aquaphor and recently got some Sport Shield (contains Dimethicone) as an experimental replacement for Hydropel. I haven't used it enough to render a verdict just yet. Although it goes on easier, Sport Shield seems more slippery than Hydropel and I don't think it works quite as well as a moisture barrier.
Posted 7 years ago # -
To replace Hydropel (for my hands), over the past few months I've been experimenting with Joshua Tree Paddler's Salve, and really like it. It comes in a light, handy screw top jar, and smells great. Add to that, they have excellent customer service.
All their salves are the same, so you don't have to buy just the one for paddlers.
KB
Posted 7 years ago # -
Danito
MemberEchoFin wrote:
And manatees...?
You will get wet on this ride.
just kidding.You can tap on your deck a couple of times every few strokes or you can make some splashing noise with your paddle every couple of strokes but there is really not much you can do about it. Try to stay away from the shallows at night when in manatee country whenever possible.
Danny
Posted 7 years ago # -
Danito's right. I've tapped and splashed, but that gets very time consuming during the night, and still been upped by one and nearly drowned in splash by another--and very nearly heart attacks each time. Just keep your fingers crossed--it's all a part of doing an EC, and makes a great story at the finish line.
KB
Posted 7 years ago #
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