Product Overview
An OC2 has long been on Johnny’s mind. Now with the lessons learned from the newest OC1 designs, we are finally confident that it’s possible to build a two person canoe that offers something different. Coming off the Volare and Cantare, Johnny wanted to create and share this experience with more paddlers. The goal was to use the Cantare’s characteristics of being quick, maneuverable and light while tapping into the Volare’s high-end speed and carry.
The Ballare OC2 was heavily influenced by the Cantare OC1 which decreased wetted surface area for the smaller paddler while providing the ideal waterline. For the Ballare, the volume was scaled up to accommodate two people, but a new challenge arose. When configuring unbalanced paddler sizes, most other OC2 designs are challenged with the smaller paddler in the front, significantly affecting performance. This OC2 was optimized for the lighter paddler in front in order to balance the pitch and placing the canoe in the water, not on top of it. From there it was given ample reserve buoyancy so the Ballare has the ability to perform with two larger paddlers. This canoe is also shorter than other OC2 designs, which enables smooth and easy handling on and off the water. At 23 feet, it can store in tight indoor spaces and has less overhang on top of a vehicle.
Another considerable change in this design has been in the ama design. It has been ten years since Puakea Designs has made a new ama. The first round of OC2 testing was carried out with our OC1 ama, and like many before, it was too small for the added weight of the second paddler. This gave us the opportunity to apply the techniques and lessons we have learned from past designs, including five OC1 models. Using the newer philosophy of less wetted surface area for the ama, it really woke up the OC2 Prototype and changed its speed and maneuverability in the surf drastically. It allows the Ballare to turn on a dime and run down the wave with minimal interference. This new ama design will take its own shape in the future with our OC1 designs.
The Ballare will be ideal for paddlers of most sizes. Its low drag design will push the limits of flatwater speed, and will give unparalleled maneuverability in the surf with its shorter length. With a more narrow hull, it will have a good waterline with smaller paddlers, but with ample reserve buoyancy, the Ballare has been successfully tested in downwind conditions with two larger paddlers.
Inspiration
OC2’s are not only great coaching tools, but they also instill confidence, teamwork and provide the feel of speed which are all beneficial in paddling. When we go out on the water, we are putting our trust in our equipment, our team and in our own abilities. Without this trust, we are distracted and can not effectively learn and grow into better paddlers. The Ballare will teach us to dance with the water, our teammates and ourselves. Let’s learn together. Let’s Dance!
Highlights:
An OC2 design with less wetted surface area and a shorter hull for more speed, carry, and maneuverability
Designed for the lighter person to be in front
A new ama design, features the new Ozone Rotate to Adjust iako system and a removable splash guard
Pronounced bal·là·re, Ballare means “to dance” in Italian
PRO MODEL
The Ballare also comes in the Pro Model at approx. 23 lbs. (hull weight) and comes with other upgrades! More info here.
Reviews
Coming soon.
Specs
Type: Standard OC2 (Double Outrigger Canoe)
Length: 23 ft.
Width: 17.5 in. at widest point
Hull Weight: approx. 25 lbs.
Rigged Weight: approx. 31 lbs.
Material: 100% Carbon Fiber
Manufacturer: Outrigger Zone (Ozone)
Includes: Choice of Rudder, Standard Covers, Adjustable Seat and New Ozone Rotate to Adjust Iako system
Price: USD $5,900 + local sales tax + shipping surcharge + destination fee (if applicable). Processing fees may apply when using a credit/debit card.
