I have been using one of the Shurehold paddles as a replacement for the stock Hobie kayak paddles that came with our i14t and TI. The Shurehold thing is basically a telescoping rod with a bunch of available options to snap onto the end. Boat hook, gaff, scrub brush, and a stiff paddle. I didn't buy the Shurehold for this boat, but had it left over from a power boat. I discovered I liked the stiff, straight single blade a lot more than the flexible stock double blade. You can telescope it out and use it to fend off rocks, etc. It makes a good emergency rudder.
Saturday we were out in light winds ( 12-14 kts.) and had a nice long downwind run coming back. I wedged the paddle under the clew and the rubber handle into the drink holder, and noticed we picked up about a knot or more of speed, and the sail stabilized and quit flopping around and trying to gybe . Didn't have the GPS with us so I can't give you numbers, but we went from quitely coasting down wind to making water rushing noises down wind, and picked up enough speed to surf down some small waves.
I had one more click out on the extension, could have gone another couple feet out if needed.
Just thought I would pass it along. I plan to replace our other paddle with another one of these, and to cut a smooth little V notch in the paddle so it holds the sail out a little more securely, and could be used to hold a line too.
