News from Pride Marine (May 2011)

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Pic of the month: T. Iwanycki and his race crew, the Breakaway Team! They even have a blog.

THE MAY BLOW-BY-BLOW

Greetings!

Thanks for reading our newsletter for the month of May!

This month we're taking a look at marine clothing. We've got articles which which will help you learn how to layer properly to keep you warm and dry this spring, as well as dispelling the big myth of wetsuits.

Plus, the surprising results from last month's poll question, but first.. let's start with this month's poll:

Have your Say: Are you a fair weather boater?

Which of the following is the coldest possible temperature that you would go pleasure boating in? Ice boating doesn't count!

- 24°C/75°F or more. The only thing that should be cold are the 'bevvies'.
- 18°C/64°F. If I can't wear shorts, I'd prefer to stay on shore.
- 12°C/53°F. I'll go out in the spring, but it better be worth it.
- 5°C/41°F. I'm willing to tolerate just about anything to get my fix.
- 0°C/32°F or colder. Ernest Shackleton has nothing on me!

May's Hot New Products

Check out our New Products page to learn about..

A new Origo alcohol stove
Aqua-Tek cleaners (eco-friendly!)
Bebbington's Bilge Cleaner (also eco-friendly!)
Aqualuma underwater lights (boat bling!)
BP 140W Solar Panel
Duramax Ultra X packing material
Garmin AIS Receiver
Gul Shorty Wetsuits, Power Slippers, Spray Tops and Foul Weather Gear
Novabraid Mooring Pendants and Synergy Dock Lines
and much more!

Stay Toasty with Gul Wetsuits

Planning on getting wet this spring? We are now a dealer of Gul wetsuits, which will dramatically lengthen your boating season.

How do wetsuits work? Myth: A wetsuit keeps you warm by providing a layer of warm water next to your skin.

Not true! Get the facts on our Wetsuit page to learn how they work, how to care for them, and how to get the most out of your rubber.

Foul Weather Gear Guide

We're busy bringing in a whole slew of new Foul Weather Gear (call them Foulies if you like) this month, and this might be a good time to review the evolving technologies in marine clothing and how to use them.

Read about concepts such as breathability, how to care for (and repair) your garments, and perhaps most importantly, learn how to layer your clothing properly! Check out the Foul Weather Gear page.

Forespar Whisker Pole Rebate

Going downwind this summer? If you've been thinking about adding a whisker pole to your quiver, then this is a great time. Forespar is offering a mail in rebate on Twist Lock and Line Control whisker poles - get between $6 and $125 back, depending on your model. Check out prices and the rebate details on our Whisker Pole page.

Product of the Month: Synergy Polyester Dock Lines

We've always stood by the use of nylon in dock lines since they provide more stretch than polyester. However, polyester provides extra strength and durability. Is there room for a compromise? Enter Synergy Dock Lines. These polyester lines implement an internal shock absorber which act like a line snubber - but without any fussing around.

We've beefed up our Dock & Mooring Lines page! Review all the different types of dock/mooring lines, which sizes to use and check out some recommended docking/mooring techniques!

Results from last month's poll question..

The results are in from our first question, asking "Which of the following environmentally-sound boating habits would you most likely practice this summer?"

Collecting trash and flotsam from anchorages/beaches you visit 11%
Avoiding water contamination (from fuel spills, bilge oil, sewage) 18%
Reducing noise pollution 11%
Reducing your consumption of fuel and/or electricity 9%
Generating wind/solar power 37%
Purchasing green/biodegradable products 14%

Thanks for voting! Message received loud and clear - we'll get you more solar stuff!
We've got one more 140 Watt Solar Panel online. More to come...

Those who voted got an extra treat - the Top 10 ways to reduce your environmental impact on the water, according to the Californian Clean & Green Boating Program. Don't feel left out; if you'd like to read them, click here.

STOP! Where's your sound signaling device?

Yes, we know that you're chomping at the bit to get out on the water but let's take a moment to make sure you're fully equipped. Transport Canada has recently made many changes to the Minimum Safe Boating Requirements. Most notably, boats under 20 metres (including canoes, etc) need radar reflectors when operating in many common conditions.

Check out our Safe Boating Requirements to make sure you're properly outfitted.

What about the USA? Requirements vary state-by-state, so you may wish to visit the

USCG's web site as a starting point.

We hope you enjoyed this newsletter! As always, our web site is pridemarine.com, but you can drop by the store or give us a ring toll-free at 1-888-732-8883!

Our team is up to full Spring Strength with the return of superstars Katrina and Mack, as well as the addition of Camila - ready to help you with all of your inquiries!

See you on the water really soon.. Woo hoo!

From David & Janice Wilby and the crew: Clive, Chris, Katrina, Mack and Camila.

(The Pride Marine Team)

"I called to the other men that the sky was clearing, and then a moment later I realized that what I had seen was not a rift in the clouds but the white crest of an enormous wave."

- Ernest Shackleton